As a parent, I’ve realized that the most meaningful moments with my kids aren’t always the big, planned events. More often than not, they come from simply sharing the things I love with them—whether it’s reading, exploring nature, or playing games. When I’m excited about something, they can feel it, and that excitement becomes contagious.
The Magic of Reading Together
One of our favorite ways to connect is through books. I make regular trips to the library, often checking out anywhere from 25 to 30 books at a time (yes, I’m that parent). But I don’t just grab any books off the shelf—I pick stories that spark my own imagination and that I think my kids will love too.
And let me tell you, when I’m genuinely excited about a book, my kids can tell. They snuggle up closer, their eyes widen, and suddenly, we’re in another world together. I do all the voices (even the ridiculous ones), and we laugh, wonder, and sometimes even tear up together. These moments aren’t just about reading—they’re about connection. And I know that when my kids grow up, they won’t just remember the stories; they’ll remember the feeling of being loved, safe, and completely wrapped up in the magic of books.
A Childhood Game, Revisited
The other day, my daughter asked me to play “Hockey Pockey” (her adorable name for “Keepy Uppy,” the balloon game). As we played, something incredible happened—I was suddenly transported back to my childhood, remembering how my grandfather used to play this same game with me. He even went so far as to use a badminton racket to extend the game as long as possible.
Standing there, laughing with my daughter as we batted the balloon back and forth, I realized that I was recreating the same kind of special moments my grandfather gave me. It hit me how these simple, joyful interactions are the ones that truly stick with us.
Passing Down a Love for Nature
As a kid, I spent endless hours with my grandparents in two of the most magical places: their home in Bodega Bay, overlooking the Russian River, and their ranch, where open fields became my playground. I’d lose myself in searching for crabs and seashells on the shoreline, or uncovering hidden treasures like crickets, frogs, and even birds’ nests in the wild.
Now, I get to pass that love for nature on to my own kids. We have a dedicated windowsill in our home where we proudly display our best nature finds—rocks, shells, feathers, and other tiny treasures. Every time we add something new, I’m reminded of those childhood adventures, and I love seeing my kids experience the same sense of wonder.
Weaving Faith Into Everyday Moments
For our family, faith isn’t just something we talk about on Sundays—it’s something we live in our everyday moments. When we explore nature, we take time to appreciate God’s creation. When we read stories, we look for lessons about kindness, bravery, and love. When we play together, we recognize the gift of laughter and connection.
I want my kids to grow up knowing the gift of seeing God’s love woven into the simple, everyday joys of life.
Making the Most of Our Time Together
At the end of the day, I’ve learned that bonding with my kids doesn’t require anything fancy—it just requires me showing up and sharing what I love. Whether it’s reading, playing games, or exploring nature, the best moments happen when we’re fully present and engaged.
Tips for Bonding with Your Kids Over Shared Interests:
✔ Make time for activities you truly enjoy, and invite your kids to join in.
✔ Choose books, games, or hobbies that excite you, and share them with your kids.
✔ Encourage your kids to explore their own passions, and support them every step of the way.
✔ Be present. Put the phone down, turn off the TV, and soak in the moment.
By sharing what you love with your kids, you’re not just making memories—you’re creating a lifelong bond that will stay with them forever. ❤️
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