The Power of Presence

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Jamal Ahmelich

Jamal Ahmelich is a registered clinical counsellor through the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. His philosophy of therapy is that the client/counsellor relationship is of utmost importance in promoting change and as such, always uses a client centered, strengths based approach.

Latest posts by Jamal Ahmelich (see all)

• 8 Actionable Parenting Tips from “Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids” - May 27, 2024
• Embracing Dan Siegel’s Parenting Approach - April 27, 2024
• Gabor Maté’s Approach to Parenting: 5 Tips to Improve your Relationship with Your Child. - March 27, 2024

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, parents often find themselves caught up in the demands of work, household chores, and other responsibilities. In the midst of this whirlwind, it’s crucial to pause and reflect on one fundamental aspect of parenting that can significantly impact the parent-child relationship: the power of presence.

The Art of Being Present: A Gift to Your Child

In today’s fast-paced world, where distractions are abundant and time is a precious commodity, the simple act of being present with your child can work wonders for your relationship. Being present goes beyond physical proximity; it’s about giving your child your undivided attention, both physically and mentally.

Quality Time Over Quantity of Time

In the quest to provide for our families, it’s easy to equate love and care with material provisions. However, children often crave the quality of time spent with their parents more than the quantity. A focused 20 minutes of engaged interaction can leave a more lasting impact than an hour of shared space with divided attention.

Tips for Cultivating Presence:

1. Unplug and Disconnect:

• Designate specific times during the day to unplug from electronic devices. This means no checking emails, scrolling through social media, or taking work calls.
• Create “tech-free” zones in the house, such as the dinner table or the hour before bedtime.

2. Establish Rituals:

• Create meaningful daily or weekly rituals that you can share with your child. Whether it’s a bedtime story, a weekend outing, or a cooking session, having consistent rituals builds a sense of security and connection.

3. Listen Actively:

• When your child speaks, put aside other distractions and actively listen. Reflect on what they’re saying, ask questions, and show genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings.
• This fosters open communication and helps your child feel valued.

4. Be Present in Activities:

• Engage in activities that your child enjoys. Whether it’s playing a board game, kicking a ball around, or doing a craft, participating actively in their world strengthens your bond.

5. Practice Mindfulness:

• Incorporate mindfulness practices into your routine. This could be as simple as taking a few minutes to breathe deeply together or engaging in a short meditation. Mindfulness helps ground both parent and child in the present moment.

The Ripple Effect of Presence:

By making a conscious effort to be present, parents not only enrich their relationship with their child but also lay the foundation for the child’s emotional well-being. When children feel seen, heard, and valued, they are more likely to develop strong self-esteem and healthier relationships with others.

In the journey of parenthood, the gift of presence is a priceless offering. By slowing down, eliminating distractions, and actively engaging with your child, you’re not just creating memories; you’re nurturing a bond that will endure the tests of time. The art of being present is a transformative force, shaping not only the parent-child relationship but also the emotional landscape of a child’s life.