We try to make sure at least one of us takes one of our kids out each week. It doesn’t have to be anything big (otherwise we wouldn’t do it!), but just some special meal or snack or even just a bike ride. SOMETHING so that our kids can get some one-on-one time with Mom and Dad.
I think this is important in any family, but especially so in ours where–after eating, sleeping, cooking, cleaning, writing, teaching, and everything else we have to do–there’s only an average of 15 minutes per kid left in the day.*
It’s awkward sometimes. The older girls don’t always know what to talk about, and some of the younger kids just don’t talk. But they’re always glad to be reminded they’re special.
I realized the other day that’s not the main reason we do it though. Yes, it’s good for the kids, but I think it’s even more important for us. Every time I take one of our kids out, I’m reminded of why I like that individual kid. Joel’s hyperness can grate against me sometimes, but when it’s just him and me, I remember it’s not a bad thing; it’s just who he is. Nathan’s odd noises and expressions can be annoying when I’m trying to discipline him. But when there’s no discipline to do–just a pizza to eat–I remember that Nathan is actually a really funny kid.
It’s hard. I mean, there’s nine of them and only two of us, and every time one of us leaves, the other is in charge of eight kids by themselves. But it’s worth it.
Plus, you know…pizza.
* Might be an exaggeration.
I’m amazed you can do this at all, but it’s so awesome that you do. We try to have a daddy-and-boy day at least once a year, where they get the day all to themselves. Those days are so memorable – and the boys started asking for mommy-and-boy days. (I’m thinking, um, isn’t that every day? But it’s not.) So, I started taking them out for individual special times. And they are so different when they’re alone, not part of the pack.
I treasure those times.
Comment by Susan Kaye Quinn — May 17, 2011 @ 9:09 PM
Good idea for any family even if there is only one child. One child and one parent what a learning time.
Comment by Grandma Jean — May 18, 2011 @ 5:34 AM