How To Do Special Mommy Time

Call the special time, “Special time with mommy” or “Special daddy time." Call it anything you wish, but give the "time" a name. It is not enough to just say "alright, now we'll do something fun..." since the child will not appreciate it.

Plan:

• Set a consistent time each week

• Anywhere between 15-30 minutes to 1 hour per week is sufficient

• Minimum of once a week; more is better if time allows for it

• Plan a week in advance for location, activity, day

• Put it on calendar

• Set the amount of time that will be spent together so that the child knows in advance.

• Never trick kids by giving them less time than you told them originally.

• If a child argues about the timing and activities, make a contract but involve the child regarding the schedule for special time.

During the sessions:

• Don’t allow yourself to be distracted by other things • Do not allow any interruptions • Do not take phone calls or cell phone calls • Arrange for other children to be taken care of by someone else during this time • Spend time alone with one child at a time • Make child feel that you want to be there • Get list of different activities that she wants to do • Give her a list of suggestions so she can choose • Do not discuss school problems and behavioral issues at this time.

Remember: The goal is to just have fun together.

A Few Sample Activities

puzzles sewing window art painting oil painting reading books computer games library baking telling story