Overwhelmed with your child's "bad behaviour"? Introducing Special Time - The Ultimate Parenting Strategy to Fill your Child’s Emotional Cup and Foster Cooperation.

You know that feeling when you walk through the door after a hectic day, and your to-do list seems to be yelling at you louder than ever?

You're trying to catch your breath, maybe even sneaking glances at the clock, knowing that dinner needs to be on the table soon... But then, there's that little nudge of guilt in the back of your mind — the one reminding you that you haven't spent quality time with your child today.

It's like a tug-of-war between responsibilities and that yearning for connection. Sound familiar?

Well, here's a little gem I would love to share with you. I have been doing it with both my kids ever since they were tiny and it is called "special time".

It's like a magic wand for busy parents, and it provides us with those moments of bonding we crave with our kids. No fancy equipment needed, just some intentional, distraction-free time carved out from your day (start with just 10min!).

How to do "special time" :

• Schedule Regular Time: Set aside dedicated, uninterrupted time each day for special time with your child - it could be first thing in the morning, right after arriving home or before bedtime.

• Minimize Distractions: Put away phones, turn off the TV, and minimize interruptions to create a focused environment.

• Follow Your Child's Lead: Let your child choose the activity or game for special time, allowing them to take the lead.

• Engage Fully: Be present in the moment, actively participating and showing genuine interest in what your child is doing.

• Listen and Respond: Listen to your child's thoughts, ideas, and feelings, and respond with empathy and encouragement.

• Avoid Criticism or Correction: During special time, focus on positive interactions and refrain from criticizing or correcting your child.

• Be Playful and Fun: Embrace silliness and playfulness, letting go of inhibitions and enjoying the time together.

• Keep it Simple: Special time doesn't have to be elaborate or planned out. It can be as simple as playing with toys, reading a book, or going for a walk.

• End on a Positive Note: Wrap up special time with a positive interaction or affirmation, reinforcing the connection between you and your child.

• Make it Routine: Incorporate special time into your daily routine to make it a consistent and cherished part of your relationship with your child.
  

"Special time" is my super tool and I teach it during the Montessori Milestone Mastermind and our Sensory for Babies classes.

I have seen it work wonders for the families I work with, and let me tell you, it truly is a game-changer (take it form me, who is a work-at-home-entrepreneur-mum with 2 young kids).

So, if you're feeling overwhelmed and wondering how to fit it all in, why not give special time a shot? Trust me, those little moments of connection are worth their weight in gold.

A great way of spending intentional "special time" is to join us for our parent-child activities in Zurich: Sensory for Babies, Motoric Fun for Babies, Sensory for Toddlers, Superhero Sports or join us for our exciting weekend activities - YAY!

Also, I just wanted to tell you: you are doing AMAZING!

We have totally got this! And HAPPY PARENTING!:)

Xoxo Mags from Academicus