Being a working mom can have its perks: you have extra money coming into the household, the time you spend with your kids is so much more precious, and you are able to show your little ones the value of hard work.
However, it can also have its downsides: you don’t get to see your brood as much as you’d like, you might not make it home for every meal time, and you worry about missing milestone moments.
The most important thing is that you are striving to do the best for your family. Come the weekend, when you are home, and you can commit all of your time to your kids, you want to make their experiences special. Take a look at these ideas to inspire your quality family weekends.
​Get Outside
As you know, I love getting outside. Rather than being cooped up indoors, go on an outdoor adventure!
You could take a trip to the zoo, a theme park or an outdoor activity center. Spending time with your kids visiting tigers, facing your roller coaster fears or taking a pony trek can be exhilarating.
Alternatively, you could stay more local and low key. Taking a bike ride to the local park, having a picnic or cooking up a barbecue in the back garden can be special. There are many things to do even when you think you can't afford to.
The most important thing is that you are with your family and enjoying their company. Take a cue from your kids and let them lead in play. Trampolining, as explored on this post (https://www.thenaturalhomeschool.com/fun-in-the-backyard-still-life-and-jumping-around.html), can be fun, provide excellent health benefits and can really see you connecting to your kids. (We loved jumping on ours back in Nashville). Take a look at the best trampolines available to buy (or search on Craigslist/FB Marketplace - there are always ones on there) and install one in your yard.
​#KickinItUnschool
As a firm believer in functional education, learning is a life-long journey we are all on. Try and tap into something that they are passionate about.
If they love space, head to the local planetarium. If they adore art, go to a local art gallery. If they love science, take them to a local museum. You simply need to make the effort to seek them out and take a trip. You may even meet like minded parents also trying to make every moment they spend with their kids precious and memorable. And hey, if you don't feel like getting out, check out this list HERE to have some great educational crafts you don't need to leave home to do.
Spending quality time with your kids doesn’t mean giving into their every whim and spending extortionate amounts of money. In reality, you just need to show your little ones how much you care and listen to their wants and needs. Heading to the park to kick a ball around may be all they want from you. To be able to talk, share a meal and be together is hugely beneficial to your children.
Being with your brood is a two way relationship. Yes, you are giving them your time and attention, but you also receive that in return, making you feel happier, more content and more satisfied with your life. The next time that you are at a loose end on the weekend, don’t succumb to the allure of a screen, and instead head outdoors, make plans with your kids and enjoy some quality time together.