I have been struck, during recent Skype Parenting Sessions, how many of the families I’ve worked with have been really enjoying the social isolation with their children. Almost seeing it as a gift.
Everyone is aware of the difficulties, fear and anxiety caused by Coronavirus. We know that people are getting sick, and some are dying. But, as Viktor E. Frankl said, ‘Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: The last of the human freedoms: to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.’ We all have the freedom to choose our response to forced isolation.
The families I’ve spoken to have admitted that they wouldn’t tell anyone else how happy they have been to have enforced time with their families. Husbands and wives are working from home, so have more energy, after the days’ work to enjoy family life. Enjoying this time seems to be a guilty secret.
In normal family life, children are around a lot. But many parents spend very little time on one to one interaction with them. There are so many work commitments, school to go to, after school activities, etc. etc. Then there is the ‘call’ of technology – gaming, TV, Netflix, and social media. We often forget to make deep, meaningful communication a priority.
How many times have you longed to see more of your child? How many times have you wished you could take a step back from your over-scheduled, busy life? So, you can connect with the people who matter most and simplify your life. It’s very rare for someone to wish their life was more complex!!!
We all understand the reason behind staying at home, to reduce the spread of the virus. No one likes being told to stay indoors. However, we can appreciate how important it is at the moment.
But could you genuinely enjoy this time? Could you spend the time building family bonds, having fun, talking, sharing and planning ahead? So, you enjoy the coming weeks and months and help your child remember this time with fondness, and enjoy a renewed family closeness.
