Additional Needs

Be Present

Posted by Francie Khalaf on 9th July 2020 Additional Needs, Advice & Support, Disabilities

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Play, Play, Play!

Do you ever find yourself mindlessly scrolling on your phone while your child plays? I know I have and during this time I am working on putting my phone down, engaging with my kids and playing with them.

The twins are 4 now and they won’t be asking me to play with them much longer. Sometimes my daughter dutifully reminds me to put my phone down, (engage the mom guilt).

In a world where technology is at our fingertips, I am finding it increasingly difficult to remain present. When my phone pings with a text, email or notification I want to look down immediately. I know I am not outside the norm in this.

There is a lot of science behind the impulse and endorphins of picking up your phone when you hear a notification. It is something that many of us have to actively work at NOT doing when we hear the notification. I am even guilty of picking it up mid conversation with someone. It’s almost second nature and it shouldn’t be.

Technology has been a huge help to us as a family.

Sawyer’s communication as well as life saving devices rely on technology, but the simple act of play should not. As a family we are having phone free dinners. We are talking and enjoying our time together. We ask questions about our day and discuss the highs and lows. It’s only about a half hour but it makes a big difference to us and my daughter.

We have begun to put our phones down and engage in play with her. It’s amazing how much you can learn through play with your child. Kids are always listening, and they are looking to us to be role models.