How much time should be spent doing things with kids?
Background: I have both children Sat-Sun and any night during the week they like, dropping them back at dads in time for work/school in the morning. They live Monday after school - Saturday morning with dad.
I work full time in a very active job. By the time I get home in the afternoon I have usually walked over 10kms in the heat (Thanks, Fitbit) and am utterly exhausted.
I find it so hard to find the motivation after work to spend time with the kids. I read with Miss 7 and make sure Master 12 is studying (High school this year) But after dinner, baths and bed. I turn off completly. Have a few wines and watch TV till it's time for bed.
On weekends we go out occasionally, not a lot. Maybe one special activity (To the pool or bowling) once a month.
How much time do other mums spend taking their kids out? I'm feeling really guilty.
4 Replies
I don't think there is a hard and fast rule. It's ok for kids to entertain themselves for a few hours, in fact it's a bloody good skill to have. Maybe just make sure you do at least one outing on the weekend, not expensive, a walk along the beach, bush walking, something. I think it's more important to know who there school friends are, how they are doing emotionally, and at school, and be available for chats etc. so maybe just make sure your available and approachable, ask questions about their lives, and occasionally reminding them that they can ask you questions etc
I believe with children you only get out as much as you put in.
The more you spend with them, the more they want to spend with you. given the ages of your kids though, as long as you follow their lead with how much they want to spend with you then thats ok
I spend as much time as I humanly can with mine. That's my preference.
If I had limited time with them as you do I would be engaging them as much as possible so getting them to help prepare dinner so that you can chat etc etc. I would also be ensuring that as much housework as possible is done when you dont have the kids.
As far as activities go I'd be willing for one a fortnight at least. I'm talking about something you can do as a family... doesn't have to cost anything.
I'm the same way. I have my child on weekends too, and I lack motivation to do the big outings etc because of energy. What works for me is including her in activities that I like to do - we watch TV shows and eat popcorn together, go and get a muffin and hot chocolate together, do homemade pizzas (gotta cook dinner anyway, right?), walk on the beach or even going to play cafe (she can play and I can relax)