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Wouldn’t it be nice to start each evening with some time to sit, relax and chat with your husband, wife, or significant other? Learn how this couple starts their Happy Family Evenings.

Evening parenting takes a lot of energy after a full day of either working outside the home or parenting. One couple I worked with used to try to sit and talk when the working dad got home from work. However their sons would whine, “You want to talk to mommy more than to me!” Their kids would be disruptive and demand attention. Mom and dad just wanted a few minutes of peace to relax and catch up. Sitting and talking with each other became more frustrating than it was worth.

This family made their evenings with their boys, ages 3 and 4, so much more enjoyable by doing the following:

When Daddy comes home, he gives hugs, kisses, and smiles to everyone. Then explains to the boys that for every minute they entertain themselves peacefully and without interrupting, they earn a minute of “Hop on Pop” wrestling time with Daddy.

This smart couple now gets to start most happy family evenings with time to relax and connect before they head into “parent duty.” And now, even if they collapse into bed after the kids are asleep, they’ve gotten to enjoy each other’s company for a few precious minutes. Kids may seem to WANT every minute of your attention, but giving them the gift of modeling a good relationship is invaluable, even if it means they must entertain themselves for a bit.

Kerry Stutzman, LMFT, MSW

Parentologist

 

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