8 Ways to Connect With Your Kids (& Still Have Time to Do Your Hair!) by Tanya Kuzmanovic

I have three kids, which can make it difficult (yet not impossible) to connect on a one-to-one basis. However, with a bit of prioritizing and organization, I make it happen. Here's how:

• Keeping it simple. I don't need to spend money or plan any grand gestures. To connect with my kid can be as simple as having them tag along with me while I walk the dog or grocery shop.
  
• Asking for their input. I ask them what they want to do together – then we do it. Even if it means playing video games or watching TV.
  
• Trying something new together. Whatever we do, we are newbies together.
  
• Getting my child to teach me something. This role reversal is a boost to my kid's self-esteem.
  
• Cooking a meal together. We plan it, shop for it, prepare it and eat it – together.
  
• Reading the same book. This opens up many conversational avenues between the two of us.
  
• Taking a trip down memory lane. Thinking back to when I was my child's age, we do something that I enjoyed way back when.
  
• Taking advantage of alone time. When my other kids are busy, I don't squander this potential one-on-one time with whoever is left.