The most memorable and satisfying times in our lives are those we spend with the people we love. Unfortunately, in our ordinary day-to-day lives, we often don’t spend the time we need to build relationships with the very people who mean the most to us.

Although spending time together as a family is important, there is something very special about one-to-one time with your kids. With just the two of you together, you tend to be more open than usual and you have the opportunity to get to know each other in a more personal way.

Here are some suggestions for one-to-one time with your kids:

• “Dates” with each of your children, where they decide the activity
• Meaningful bedtime rituals (talking, sharing, reading, singing, praying)
• Surprise visits to your child’s school during his/her lunch break, bringing fast food to enjoy together
• Volunteer to help in your child’s classroom
• Explore educational opportunities with an older child
• Take a child with you on a business trip if it is appropriate and safe
• Visit a local bookstore or library with your child during story hour