50 Ways to Invest in a Child

 

There are some days that are parenting slam dunks and others… well, they won’t ever be recorded in the Parenting Hall of Fame!

 

I’ve decided all families have their ups and downs and parents are truly interested in nurturing their kids in a real, effective way. Sometimes the signals just get crossed!

 

Just in case you’re in need of a little inspiration, here are 50 simple ways to invest in, love on, and play with your child:

 

1. Slow down.

2. Smile when you see them.

3. Hold hands.

4. Look for magic.

5. Listen to their dreams.

6. Put down your phone.

7. Go on a date.

8. Play a card game.

9. Hug, often.

10. Wink at them.

11. Prepare a special food as an unexpected treat.

12. Ask them what they want to be when they grow up and show them how it can become a reality.

13. Believe they’re special.

14. Take a deep breath before making a snap judgment.

15. Tell them, “no,” when necessary.

16. Refuse to be distracted when together.

17. Tell the truth, even when it’s hard.

18. Love generously.

19. Answer their questions.

20. Eat meals together.

21. Read stories together.

22. Imagine together.

23. Offer acceptance in the face of failure.

24. Give them responsibilities.

25. Hold them accountable.

26. Accept your role as an expert.

27. Build a fort.

28. Go on a treasure hunt.

29. Tell jokes.

30. Pray together.

31. Create a special ritual.

32. Tell them they make you happy.

33. Cook together.

34. Write a love note to them.

35. Embarrass them with lavish, truthful, praise.

36. Ask how their day went.

37. Find out what they think is important.

38. Apologize when you make mistakes.

39. Splash in puddles.

40. Try new things.

41. Play hookey together.

42. Learn something new.

43. Be available.

44. Run around barefoot.

45. Thank them for being individuals.

46. Remember they are not adults… yet.

47. Choose not to yell.

48. Help them look and feel their best.

49. Sit quietly beside one another.

50. Don’t give up.

What are some ways you intentionally invest in the child in your life?

 

(Want 50 suggestions for improving your marriage right now? Check them out!)

 

This post was originally published March 25, 2013 and is being recycled as part of the “I’ve Been Around” summer! Hope you enjoyed it and I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!