Mindful Mamas and Papas

We all have a deep desire to connect with our kids and give them a sense of belonging and acceptance in our families. Being present in play can be a practice to support this. Being present isn’t about just giving your children attention (they already have that most of the day!). Rather, it’s about being intentional about really connecting with them. (Paragraph break). Tips for being present in play: (line break) 1. MAKE THE  [PLAY] TIME. Try carving out 30 minutes daily when you can give undivided attention to your children while taking part in an activity of their choosing. (Line break) 2. SET AN INTENTION. You’ve worked on setting a mindful parenting intention in this book. Try reflecting on it before and/or during play. You can also mentally repeat the mantra “play present” that you cay as your mind wanders to other activities you could be doing (which are usually less fun — chores!). (Line break). 3. REDUCE TECH DISTRACTIONS. TVs and phones are two of the biggest distractions in family life. At the very least, have TVs off and turn your ringer to silent and put your phone further than arms length away (or even in the tech bed for a nap!). (Line break). 4. MIND YOUR MIND, THEN YOUR HANDS. When you start to feel your mind racing with tasks (because that’s what adult minds are wired to do!), notice where your mind has gone, then direct your attention to your hands, and whatever it is they are doing in the play. (Line break) 5. DON’T JUDGE YOURSELF. Kids like to repeatedly do the same tasks or games, and for adults this can get boring. It’s ok to feel this way, and there’s no need to feel guilty or judge yourself as a bad parent. Just come back to your intention of doing child-led play for the time you’ve set aside. Society sends us mixed messages about how much time we should spend playing with children. Too much time, and some say you are letting your child ruin your life. Too little time, you and other parents may spur a feeling of guilt for taking time to yourself. Find your own balance, and let go of guilt from within or around you! (Line break) 6. PRACTICE GRATITUDE. Wow, you have 30 minutes uninterrupted to hang out with your child or children to play?! And with a plethora of toys?! Pretty lucky! Why not share these grateful sentiments aloud during or after play, and ask your child what they’re grateful for from the play time with mama or papa. Their answer will likely be rewarding for you as a parent and motivate you to continue the regular play time in the daily routine.