Here’s our chance. It’s nearing summertime. The days are longer and our kids are home from school. When it comes to making the most of our time with our kids, is quantity the answer? Experts – and our own kids – say no. When it comes to spending time with our kids, quality is key! With most parents both working outside the home, we are so busy that you rally have to make a concerted effort to make ‘quality time’ for your kids. And sometimes that means leaving the dishes in the sink and laundry in the basket for another day!

According to the National KidsDay Meaningful Time Survey, while fathers and mothers differ about what’s most meaningful, our kids do not agree that any time we spend with them is meaningful. Our children view time spent doing fun activities with us as most meaningful. So taking little kids to a sit down restaurant is probably not the best ideo for ‘quality time’….stressful to both the parents and the little ones who have a hard time sitting still and keeping quiet!

A waterpark, the zoo, even a local park and playing on the swings and merry-go-round is what kids want to do! Running through a sprinkler on a hot summer day…Mom & Dad too even if you’re fully clothed will be a good time for the kids!

What meaningful things do you have planned with your children this summer?