So often, I think we are waiting on opportunities to connect with our kids.  We never want to miss one–an opportunity, that is.  When one presents itself, we want to be ready to take it.  But do we create an opportunity to make memories?

Teens and preteens are funny little beings.  When we (the parents) are completely predictable they know how to play the game.  They can predict our 20 questions every evening over supper and they give their pat answers like “Fine” and “I don’t know.”

But what happens if we shock them?  What if we do something completely out of the ordinary?  It catches them off guard and a wonderful thing tends to happen–they open up and allow us a glimpse inside.

Think about waking them up early one morning and taking them to have coffee before school.  Or, how about picking them up for lunch from school one day unexpectedly?  What if, out of the blue, you sent your daughter flowers or left a note in your son’s truck just telling him how proud you are of him?

There was a time with my oldest son that he and I just weren’t communicating well.  Seemed like everything I said or did was slightly frustrating to him and vice versa.  I was praying one morning for the Lord to give me some insight in how to connect with him and I had an idea.  (Holy Spirit inspired for sure!)  I set my alarm for 2:00 am and went to wake him up.  I fixed hot chocolate in the kitchen and we sat and talked.  At first, he thought I was out of my mind, but quickly we were laughing and enjoying our time together. This has become a tradition in our family and it certainly doesn’t happen all the time. But I will wake a different child up at an unpredictable hour for some one-on-one time.  We have done things like have hot chocolate while sitting outside looking at the stars, play a short game of Skip Bo, or wrap up on the couch in blankets I heated in the dryer.  These are memories that will forever be treasured in this momma’s heart.  I believe the same is true for my children as well.

You do the things the Lord lays on your heart.  Be creative and make memories.  It will strengthen your relationship and will create beautiful memories over the years.  Can you imagine how loved and valuable they would feel when they know you are willing to wake up in the early morning hours just for moments with them?  Blessed.

I’d love to hear how you creatively connect with your kids!

My love,