Time And Togetherness

For mums, spending time with their children is of utmost importance. Kasmiah Mustapha suggests some activities to help them bond

Make a scrapbook

-Have fun looking for the perfect scrapbook. Then decide what photo or sticker should go where and what to write. You can include a baby picture of your child, or her or his first birthday celebration, holiday or first day at school. Gather photos and other memorabilia such as ticket stubs or certificates. Work together to create a mother-child scrapbook.  

Read a book together

-It is one of the most rewarding activities a mother can do with her children. Choose the perfect book for their age and read it together. In addition to forming emotional bond, it will also help the child with better vocabulary, language cognition, image recognition and increased imagination. It also foster the love of reading in your child.

Play sports

-A mother may not be able to engage in vigorous games with her child but that should not stop her from enjoying activities that are less strenuous such as swimming or badminton. The most important thing is that mother and child enjoy each other’s company and at the same time stay healthy.

Cooking

-Cooking is no longer a girl’s thing. A mother can also enjoy a cooking session with her son. Just watch Junior Masterchef Australia and you will see how many boys aspire to become chefs. Depending on the child’s age, cooking a simple dish or making brownies is enough to stir his or her imagination. Why, it may even inculcate a love for home-cooked food.

Board games

-Chess, monopoly or scrabble? Pick a board game that will interest both mother and child. Playing board games can teach the child social skills. The child will also learn to be patient and be more focused. It will also help sharpen their minds and instill a healthy competitive nature.

Watch a movie

-Regardless of age, cartoons never go out of style. Try Toy Story, The Lion King, Madagascar or Cars. In addition to being entertaining and fun, these have a positive influence. The mother can point out the subtle messages in the movies such as team work and perseverance. Sing-along sessions are also an option.

Go for a nature walk

-Spend a day at the park or forest reserve and enjoy the nature walk. Both mother and child can learn more about the environment together. Learn about ways to protect the flora and fauna. It’s the perfect time to bond with each other and nature and instil the importance of looking after the environment.

Plan a vacation

-It is a good idea to include your child when planning a family vacation. Get their feedback on places to visit. Surf the web together or visit travel agencies to find the best deals. Your child will love you for including him or her in the family’s decision and who knows, you may even get a novel idea on what to do during your vacation.