As parents, we want to spend as much time bonding with our children as possible. But we also know that we must help them learn, grow, and prepare for life. The good news: It’s possible to do both at the same time. There are plenty of ways that we can enjoy quality time together while preparing our kids for the future. Let’s take a look at 5 ways to do so:
Show Them How to Do Chores
To kick things off, you’re going to find that one of the best ways to get started here is to teach your boys different chores. Boys need to learn how to do all kinds of household chores — grocery shopping, bathroom cleaning, laundry, yard care and clean up, etc. Boys need to learn self-sufficiency and they need to learn how to partner with other humans, including future roommates, partners, and spouses. Showing them how to do important chores – and expecting them to complete them — prepares them for life too.
Travel Together
When it comes to specific bonding time in particular, you may find that you want to dedicate some time to traveling together a lot more. Traveling broadens horizons, exposes us to different cultures and other ways of living, and can add to the things your son is learning in school. It’s a great way to spend learn more about one another as well!
Teach Them How to Do Things
Boys want to make productive contributions to the world. Got a broken appliance and a kid who enjoys hands-on activities? Look here for specific appliance repair tips for broken ice makers or search YouTube for DIY videos. You can also share your skills with your son. Teach him some recipes as you’re cooking. Or show him how to play piano or garden or whatever else you enjoy doing!
Plan Educational Days Out Together
Educational days out don’t have to be boring. You can build your outings around local opportunities — museums, local landmarks, natural areas, etc. — or you seek opportunities based on your son’s interests. Got a video game fanatic? Look for a 1980s style arcade. Got a son who loves fishing? Consider visiting a local aquarium or fish hatchery.
Focus on Learning Through Leisure
Finally, you can also look to make many of the activities you love to do together more of a learning experience. There are so many activities that children can do to help them learn more in life. You will always have the opportunity to make something an educational experience – but in a fun and exciting way. From walking in the woods to baking to going on a day trip, you can turn almost anything into an opportunity to teach them things, expand their knowledge, and prepare them for life.
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