Don't Let Your Phone Distract Your From Being A Present Parent: 6 Tips You Can Try Today

Being a present parent is crucial for building strong connections with your children. However, in today's digital age, it's easy to get distracted and lose focus. If you're looking for realistic ways to be a more present parent, here are three effective strategies to try:

6 tips to be a more present parent

1. Disconnect from your phone, leave it in another room.

According to Kristen Race, Ph.D., founder of Mindful Life, the mere presence of electronic devices can hinder your ability to be fully engaged, as reported by Parents.com. Even the sound of a vibrating phone can divert your attention elsewhere. To combat this, consider stashing your phone in a drawer or leaving it in another room when you're spending quality time with your child. By physically removing this distraction, you send a clear message to your child that they have your undivided attention.

2. Establish tech-free zones or times.

Designate specific areas in your home or certain times of the day as tech-free zones or times. For example, during meal times or before bedtime, create a rule that no electronic devices are allowed. This helps create a focused and uninterrupted environment for connecting with your children.

RELATED: This is How Your Child Feels When You Are Constantly on the Phone

3. Practice active listening.

When your child is talking to you, practice active listening by giving them your full attention. Maintain eye contact, nod, and respond appropriately to show that you are genuinely interested in what they are saying. Avoid multitasking or interrupting, and let them express themselves fully before offering your thoughts or advice.

4. Engage in quality one-on-one time.

Make it a priority to spend dedicated one-on-one time with each of your children individually. Plan activities that they enjoy and let them take the lead in choosing what to do. During this time, resist the urge to check your phone or get distracted by other tasks such as work or household management. By focusing solely on your child, you create a strong bond and demonstrate your commitment to being present.

RELATED: Always On Your Phone While Caring For Baby? How It Can Hurt Your Kids, Say Experts

5. Verbalize your mindfulness.

When you catch yourself drifting off or not paying attention while your child is sharing something with you, make it known. Verbalize your struggle by saying, "I'm not paying attention very well." By acknowledging your lack of focus, you're taking an active step to re-engage with your child. Susan Stiffelman, a family therapist and author of Parenting With Presence, suggests that naming your difficulty with mindfulness brings you back to the present moment.

6. Celebrate when you are being a present parent

Recognizing and appreciating even brief instances of being fully present can help you feel more accomplished in your mindfulness journey. Instead of starting with self-doubt, telling yourself, "I'm really bad at being mindful," begin by acknowledging that you can indeed achieve mindfulness. By celebrating these small victories, you'll cultivate a positive mindset and encourage further progress.

Remember, being a more present parent is a process that requires conscious effort and practice. By implementing these tips, you can enhance your connection with your children and create meaningful moments together.

Read this story to know how your child feels when you are distracted by your phone.