In this day and age, the youth often forget to appreciate the fine art of crafting. A generation or two ago, they can easily identify with making something out of nothing. But the youth of today are enamored by the shinier, and newer video games. Now, at the mention of this, many of my fellow parents would try to solve this by denying them what they want. I do not think this will be a good idea, however, and I implore you against doing so.
We all know that having them make crafts is a more productive use of their time, but denying them what they have grown to enjoy is only going to estrange your kids from you. Instead of denying them their time with video games, try at least understanding what it is that they find enjoyable about them; be involved in what they like doing. But at the same time, get them involved in crafts, even if they don't spend as much time with it as you would like.
Remind the kids that this is a give and take process. Playing video games is a privilege, and with it comes your own privilege of wanting to spend time. As they will want very little of their time spent on their parents (hey, you were a teenager, too!), use this time wisely. Get them to help in the crafts that you do. Perhaps watch the sunset as you carve that wooden sculpture together.
Remember; forcing them to spend time with you is a mistake. In these formative years, that naturally prefers their friends to your company. The important thing is for them to feel that if all else fails, they can always return to whence they came. It would also be wise to make sure they have good friends, too.
Children, no matter how close they are to adulthood, would want to have the ability to return to their roots. Even those who are much older look for that from time to time. If they remember you as the parent who understood what they want, returning will be without burden.
We all know that having them make crafts is a more productive use of their time, but denying them what they have grown to enjoy is only going to estrange your kids from you. Instead of denying them their time with video games, try at least understanding what it is that they find enjoyable about them; be involved in what they like doing. But at the same time, get them involved in crafts, even if they don't spend as much time with it as you would like.
Remind the kids that this is a give and take process. Playing video games is a privilege, and with it comes your own privilege of wanting to spend time. As they will want very little of their time spent on their parents (hey, you were a teenager, too!), use this time wisely. Get them to help in the crafts that you do. Perhaps watch the sunset as you carve that wooden sculpture together.
Remember; forcing them to spend time with you is a mistake. In these formative years, that naturally prefers their friends to your company. The important thing is for them to feel that if all else fails, they can always return to whence they came. It would also be wise to make sure they have good friends, too.
Children, no matter how close they are to adulthood, would want to have the ability to return to their roots. Even those who are much older look for that from time to time. If they remember you as the parent who understood what they want, returning will be without burden.
About the Author:
Maggie Simmons is a complete fanatic of Massachusetts Craft Shows. Enjoy the various arts and crafts yourself, and go to Massachusetts Craft Fairs now!
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