While the world is still struggling with the pandemic, your child doesn’t have to. Pamper them with gifts every now and then so that the pandemic doesn’t pass them by. However, gifts don’t just mean their favorite toys or games. Remember that there is no gift that can replace your presence, attention and emotions for them.

According to one study, 73% of parents are engaged on their phones while spending time with their children at a restaurant, and 65% of mothers reported that technology interfered with parent-child interactions during playtime with their toddler. .

The numbers really make me sad!

So, I thought, it is really important to mention the following gifts that are MUCH more valuable than all the materialistic gifts that exist.

1. Undivided attention

Children often grow up before the time when parents are too busy in their lives. Their actions and behavior go off track and they feel lost in their lives. If you don’t want your child to be one of them, learn to put the phone upside down just so your little one can say whatever their heart desires.

A child needs your attention to heal and grow. Even though you have other responsibilities, you cannot put them aside. You have to be patient to hear all their childhood stories and get excited about it. This way your child will build self-confidence and feel safe.

2. Using the internal pause button

You are also human and there may be bad days when you are already on edge. But honestly, as a parent, you still can’t jump the gun on your toddler. Be aware of yourself and your emotions, but most importantly, learn to shut down at the right time.

Take a deep breath and hit the internal pause button. Controlling your anger is really important for your and your child’s growth. Kids can sometimes drive you crazy, but even at those times, you need to set your boundaries so you don’t lose your temper.

3. Acceptance of emotions

Emotions play a big role in your child’s development. Your body is often controlled by emotions, but if you learn to control them, you will know when to act. Practice the art of mindfulness and learn not to act on the sensations of your body.

All triggered emotions and feelings begin to dissipate as soon as you resist your urge to act on those emotions. Whenever you are able to achieve this, you are actually rewiring your brain. Soon, it will start to reflect in your compassionate behavior and believe me, there is no better gift for your child.

4. Relieving stress

Keep all your electronic devices away when you are with your child. You’re more likely to stimulate and deflect your child’s frustration if you’re trying to focus on a screen. You should be clear about good habits that help you relieve stress: regular exercise, meditation, yoga, hot baths, etc.

You can also do some fun activities together. Something like dancing together, going for long walks, listening to a guided meditation, or anything else that keeps you and your kids away from screens.

Remember, you need to be in your best shape if you want to give your child the childhood he/she deserves. So make sure you take good care of your personal well-being.

5. Outdoor activities

A child should go out and play in the lap of nature for a 360 degree development. In today’s digitally driven world, as a parent it is your responsibility to promote more outdoor play. Brownie points if you can tag along with your little one for some fun outdoor games.

Regular outdoor activities make children more curious, self-directed and focused. Skills such as communication, collaboration and organizational skills are improved.

Further, children’s outdoor play also strengthens your relationship with your child and develops a mutual sense of respect between you and your child.

At you…

Finally, let me close with one last piece of advice: Your little one’s childhood will never come back, so give it everything you’ve got. There is no better gift than a perfect childhood with loving parents.