Dubai: How easy is it to find quality family time?
In a recent survey carried out by fashion retailer Centrepoint, residents in Dubai are having a difficult time in prioritising time with their family.
The study, which was released in time for World Family Day on May 15, revealed that 48 per cent of respondents claimed that they do not get sufficient time with their family. In addition, 87 per cent of respondents said that spending time with family is what they looked forward to most on the weekends, while more than 44 per cent of participants said they spend over nine hours at work – shortening the time with the family.
Lucy Bruce, a local parenting expert, who is also the founder of Home Grown Children’s Eco Nursery and Harmony House charity, said that children are often the most affected when they spend less time with their parents.
“As a mother of three and a business owner, it is fair to say that I’ve had times when I’ve felt like I have bitten off more than I can chew. Recognising the importance of my role in my children’s lives has made being present and spending quality time with my children my main priority. The positive impact it has had on my children and myself is immeasurable.”
In an online poll that was carried out by Gulf News on Sunday, 45 per cent of respondents said a good family life makes them the most happiest in life. The survey, which included over 3,500 participants, also indicated that financial security and good health were the top factors I life that also made them at happy – at 17 and 13 per cent respectively.
5 top tips on spending quality time
1. Keep devices out of reach
Put your phone away while spending time with family. Make sure they have your full attention and you’ll see that your children are less irritable and attention seeking.
2. Be prepared to make a mess and accept that this will happen
Do not rule out activities just because they may take more time or involve more cleaning later. The memories you make will be more that worth the time and effort spent.
3. Let your children take the lead and go with the flow
When children take the lead on activities, they gain and learn so much more. This will also help you connect better with them and get more insight on how they think and approach life.
4. Talk more about today and less about tomorrow
Focus on learning in the moment and creating opportunities to gain from the current activity instead of focusing on what’s coming up tomorrow and putting pressure on the future. Make sure to breathe and enjoy the moment you’re in.
5. Make time for kindness and compassion
Do not be quick to judge and lead by example instead. Take the time to explain why your child’s actions. Revisit the situation and talk about what they could have done differently and always let them know that you love them, even when they have acted up.
Source: Home Grown Children’s Eco Nursery
