I have to admit that lately it feels like everything is go, go, go. Feeling like I have to fit it all in has oftentimes meant that even in my downtime, I’m checking social media and trying to catch up on Instagram. I realized the other day that I had gotten into a bad habit of telling Dylan to “hurry up” as I’m often on the other side rushing to get Mei dressed and ready to go.
“Hurry up and brush your teeth.”
“Hurry up and get your shoes on.”
“Hurry up and eat your breakfast.”
I was guilty of saying all these things. This was certainly not the pace of life that I wanted to instill in my kids but somehow I had become so wrapped up in trying to do all the things that I wasn’t paying attention to the example I was setting. Life can be frantic, but I want my kids to be kids. I want them to live in the moment and not feel rushed. I love that they stop along the way to appreciate a pretty flower or a gnarly rock. It’s been a great reminder that I’ve been taking to heart and I wanted to share 4 easy ways that have helped me make sure that I’m reconnecting everyday with my family. As a family, we want to better learn how to slow down and enjoy the ride.
Create mini-moments
Take advantage of random moments throughout the day to connect with your kids. Never make an excuse to have some fun and play. Oftentimes my kids will want to play outside the instant we get home and in the past, I’ve told them to hang on while I go change clothes and shoes. Unfortunately what has ended up happening is I get pulled into something around the house and never end up making it back outside. #momfail So lately, I’ve just taken up my kids on their offer to play right then and there, whether it’s a game of Frisbee, playing catch, or just running around the yard! We share high fives all around and sometimes, Dylan will even teach me a dance move that he’s come up with. His latest has been one where he bends his knees and shakes his legs — it’s what he’s showing me in the picture above! Whatever it is, I’ve been making an effort to create moments throughout the day
Turn off technology
I’m addicted to my phone just like everyone else but I make a point to leave my phone in the other room whenever I come home from work. I know that I’ve been away from the kids all day and I want to make sure that I make the most of the few hours I have left to spend with them. I’ve realized that it’s also unhealthy for them to see me constantly on my phone and want them to know that life needs to be experienced outside of the digital world.
Turn bath time into together-time
Bathtime is our last chance to have some fun before the day is over and we use it as a chance to slowly wind down for the night. I’m always amazed at how dirty these kids get in such a short amount of time (I mean seriously, how did yogurt make it to the back of their neck?). We’ve been using Ivory Body Wash and I love that it’s a gentle clean that’s pH balanced, paraben-free and free of dyes. I still remember the days when I was growing up and seeing the Ivory bar soap sitting in every shower and bathtub. Even the scent now bring back memories of my childhood, and I hope that I can create those same memories for my little ones!
Read, cuddle, and reflect.
Story time is another favorite of mine and I’m glad that my kids insist on it as much as I do. Dylan and Mei each pick out their book for the night and we all pile onto the glider as we get cozy for a few stories. It’s a great way for us to all come together before they’re done for the day and it’s a time we all look forward to. Needless to say, I love that my little ones are still small enough that they both fit on my lap so I can cuddle them!
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How do you make the most of family time? Please share you tips on how to slow down in the comments!
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Ivory. The opinions and text are all mine. Be sure to check out their Facebook and Instagram to get their latest updates! Share your favorite Ivory moments with #EverydayIvory!
Amy Arnold says
I am so guilty of this too. Good reminder and good tips!
Amy Ann
Straight A Style
Mel says
Dylan and Mei are so cute! I love the idea of putting your phone in another room when you come home from work, so you can interact and spend quality time with your children.
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Jessica says
I love these tips. It is definitely good to have the moments of stillness in this fast paced world!
Jessica | notjessfashion.com
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Sheree says
I’m totally guilty of this…every morning its a mad rush to get out of the house. Def need to remind myself to take things slow and also unplug when I’m with my kids.
~ xo Sheree
Posh Classy Mom
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