One way parents support their children is through family activities. Children often feel nurtured and supported during times the family is interacting, such as when everyone is eating dinner together, taking a walk, watching a movie, or going to the park. But the deepest relationship between a parent and child develops through one-on-one time.

One-on-one time doesn’t mean hours of time, and it doesn’t require going somewhere or spending money. Giving individual attention may occur during ten minutes here or fifteen minutes there doing pleasurable activities at home. Parents can simply toss a ball back and forth or let the child lead in floor-time play for a few minutes. The short, focused time spent one-on-one has a positive cumulative effect.

Because it can be easy to let this interaction slide without making a definite commitment, parents can start when their child is very young by planning to spend fifteen to twenty one-on-one minutes together every day. “Special time” can be a part of each day just like “bath time” or “bedtime.”

When you devote a few minutes each day to positive interaction with your child, you will spend less time managing difficult behaviors.

The relationship you have with your children is part of building a strong foundation for them. Give each of them quantities of and quality time in your relationship with them.