Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Saturday, December 14, 2024 80° Today's Paper


Letter: Even 10 minutes of daily focus with kids pay off

On Jan. 7, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser published a letter expounding on the many benefits of reading aloud to our children (“Read aloud to kids to change the world”). As a pediatrician, I wholeheartedly agree.

However in today’s economy, with both parents working several jobs, this can be a nearly impossible task for most families in Hawaii.

As a start for this new year, how about prioritizing just five to 10 minutes daily with the entire family, and sit down, without any screens, to simply talk about the day with one another? This could be at a family meal around the table, or just before bedtime. Parents or grandparents can ask simple questions such as, “How was your day?” or “Did anything good happen to you today?”

I firmly believe that our children just want to be reminded that we love and care for them. So, start with this simple step first for the next seven days and I guarantee you will not regret this small investment in time with remarkable returns.

Theresa Wee

Waipahu


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