The Importance of Showing Up for Your Children

The Importance of Showing Up for Your Children

In these modern, busy frenzied times it is perhaps easy to fail to notice that this (probably the most important of all the things parents can do for their children) is simply the act of showing up for school plays, games, quizzes, plays, peer celebrations such as birthday parties, and individual moments such as recitals and sports events. Of course, the gatherings can be large and sometimes feel remarkable only for the noise level but what is happening is nothing less than the act of love, support and attention parents bring to the process of forming a child.No one forgets the agonizing wait for a parent’s appearance at a school play, or the devastation and crushing humiliation of their child missing out on being a star – or just not seeing anyone in the audience. Children crave attention and validation, and when they look out to the audience and see someone they know, someone who cares, their self-esteem and confidence gets a boost. They know they matter because the most important people in their lives are validating them, noticing them and making an effort.Moreover, it brings you to your kids’ events, which makes you feel more secure and stable, and also sends that message to your kids – that you are there for them no matter what. It’s a very important part of the glue parents make to support their children in their emotional development.These activities are also opportunities for the parents to be part of their child’s world. At the piano recitals, sports days or school plays, you get to see their interests, talents and social connections right before your eyes. It might not change your impressions of how talented your child is or what their interests are, but it does make those perceptions accurate. That’s because you get to hear what they are working on and see their development first hand. The same idea applies to sports and other activities: even if you aren’t sure it’s really for your child, being present helps you better understand their passions and challenges. In return, those activities provide you with clearer insight into your child’s world and allow for more quality time with them.In addition, your children know that you are there for them when you show up for them, and this is really important: you are modelling commitment and responsibility – which brings benefits for us all – and they are learning to show up for people, something that will make them good friends, parents and carers over time. In short, you are teaching them that relationships and commitments matter.Of course, life frequently gets in the way and you won’t be able to make every activity, but showing up where you can, and explaining why you can’t when you can’t, communicates that you care. If you can’t be there, watching a video of the event later on or even just celebrating your child’s participation at home can also send an important message.Parler understands the value of helping your children truly enjoy quality family time by being there as parents. If you show up for your kids, we want to hear it. If you do activities with your kids, we want to know. If you engage with your kids in play, we want to celebrate. If you spend time with your kids, we want many details and beaming visuals. By sharing your experiences, not only are you recording family special moments and memories, you’re also inspiring parents to be fully present for their children.