Do Children Crave Undivided Attention?

Children do crave undivided attention from their parents and caregivers. That attention can be hard to come by these days, as schedules are hectic and jam-packed. However, the most vital part of cognitive development happens between birth and five years, and during this time, children need attention in order to flourish. Attention from caregivers is crucial to the health and well-being of a child.

  1. Promotes Good Behavior

    • Parents can recognize when their child is in need of attention. The child will act out or misbehave in order to get attention that he is not receiving. This "negative attention" is frustrating for both the parent and the child. Children who feel as though they are getting approval and undivided attention from a parent on a consistent basis do not seek out attention in other ways.

    Keep It Simple

    • Quality time does not have to be expensive or extravagant in order to please the child. In fact, children appreciate doing simple things with their parents, such as reading a book. There are plenty of activities, such as going for a walk, enjoying a meal one-on-one, or chatting together before bedtime, that are enjoyable for a child and have a minimal cost to the parent.

    Finding the Time

    • Children appreciate even a small amount of undivided attention from their parents. Quality time spent together does not need to take a long time. If parents are worried about time management, especially if they have several children, they can plan out the quality time in advance. Scheduling out the time shows the child that they are a priority and ensures that the activity will not be forgotten.

    Cater to the Individual

    • A parent can show their appreciation for a child by individualizing the plans. The activity should be tailored to the needs and interests of the particular child. This shows that the child is recognized in the family as an individual. Gender differences can be ignored if, for instance, a daughter wants to spend the time playing dolls with her father. Going the extra mile to engage with the child on their terms shows that the parent values the child.

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