Parenting: The Need for Connected Time

We often here the phrases, quality time verse quantity time, in the context of parenting. Some will argue that it is not the quantity of time you spend, but rather the quality of time that matters. Quantity of time is easily defined and measured. Quality time is more difficult, but often is measured in terms of memories or a deep discussion. In reality, you need both and neither can substitute for the other in the parenting relationship. However, the greatest need for our children is connected time. Connected time involves several aspects. Like our Heavenly father our children need to see their parents are concerned about what is going on in their life. He knows the hairs on our head, he know when we sit and when we rise. We need to make ourselves aware of what major and minor things are going on in their lives, what their likes and dislikes are, what excites them, what changes may be happening, what they view as significant. But it must go deeper than just knowing. The Spirit is the Paraclete, meaning he comes in and along side of us to guide us in the Father’s will. As parents we too play a paraclete type role. We are to find out what is going on in our children’s lives and then parent them, or guide them as to what is right, the way they should be thinking, acting, and responding. This is where quantity and quality may not cut it, we are not just being buddies, but are parents. Children need this, they long for this, it is as innate as our longing for God and is connected to it. Are you spending connected time with your children?