Lives for parents only seem to get more complicated with each passing day. On top of their daily responsibilities, they have tons of work, chores and commitments that require urgent attention. Often it is easy to lose sight of what’s more important and other things usually end up taking precedence over family time. While you may have other obligations, its never healthy to neglect your family. Especially when it comes to younger children. They require your support and guidance along every step of the way and if you choose to neglect them at an early age, you might just miss out on all the important firsts and be unable that bond.

Here is why spending quality time with your children is important

• It increases empathy towards your children

When you are able to give your child time, you are able to have conversations at a deeper level. You get to know them better, what they’re feeling or what they’re going through. Doing so allows you to deepen your empathy towards them and they, towards you. When you are able to develop that bond, it strengthens your relationship. They are able to share their little wins, losses, excitement and sadness. You might even be able to learn a thing or two from their experiences.

• Foster a loving environment

You are the role model for your child, someone they look up to and admire. And when they aren’t surrounded by other adults, they look to you for inspiration and traits they can adopt. At a young age, developing a positive environment for your child to grow in can create harmony between you and your child. If you provide a healthy, loving environment for your child, it is likely they will grow up to be empathetic and loving individuals.

• Stress Reduction

Often after a long day of work, you want to unwind and relax. Your child may need the exact same thing. Scheduling regular family time can be a healthy way for the parents and children to come together and talk about their day. You can also incorporate fun activities such as watching a movie or going to the park which will take your mind off of the mundane daily responsibilities and help reduce stress.

• Appreciating your child

When you are constantly surrounded by different personalities, it is often nice to look at the world with a fresh pair of eyes. While your children may be young, they are slowly developing a personality of their own. But because they haven’t experienced the world like you have, they may have a completely different perspective. Spending quality time allows you to figure out who they are as a person and the person they are becoming. It can allow be quite refreshing and the more you listen to what they have to say, the more your appreciation for them will grow.

Your children have so much to learn and even more to offer, if you only make the time for them. You need to understand that the time you spend together doesn’t have to be complicated or difficult. Children find joy in the smallest of things, all you need to do is try to make every occasion one worth remembering.