10 ways to treasure the little things with your child

One of the most beautiful things about children is the way they look at the world, those beautiful little wide-eyed humans.

What we take for granted is often the very same our children treasure, and sometimes it's the little things children do that we find so special. Whether it's the way their face lights up when they see something they love or the way they mispronounce words or the way they laugh uncontrollably at the silliest things, children are light.

What are some of the little things your children do that you find precious but someone else might find ordinary? Let us know by emailing us at chatback@Parent24.com and we could publish your comments. Do let us know if you'd like to remain anonymous. 

Life passes us by so quickly and we risk missing out on all these little moments, so this holiday, let's try to be mindful when spending time with our kids (or anyone really).

• Also see: WATCH: These pre-schoolers are starting their days the right way

Here are some of the little things children tend to value: 

1. Playing along

Rule number one of making a child happy is PLAYING ALONG.

If they’re having a tea party and tell you to have a sip of your tea, you pretend there’s tea in that cup and if they tell you there is a four-eyed-monster chasing you, you start running for your life.

Kids love it when you can be kids with them, and join in on the fun. 

2. Putting your phone down and talking to them

If there’s anything children thrive on, it’s attention. Actually listening to them when they talk to you, making eye contact, and being engaged in the conversation means a lot to little ones.

It's just respectful too. And one day when they have something important to tell you, they'll know you will listen.

3. Doing little voices when reading to them

Another way to show enthusiasm is by becoming one with the story you're reading to them; don’t be afraid to be a little goofy and silly and unleash your inner child.

Your child will become more invested in the story, and it can instill a love for reading in them.

4. Asking them about their day

Children are usually full of stories and can babble on for hours. Even if you’ve had a long day, make sure to listen to what they are saying, then respond and ask questions – don’t just listen.

This also builds a good relationship in which your children can feel like they can openly communicate with you. 

Don't be discouraged if they're quiet when you ask them how their day was. They may be tired and processing, but they'll probably unleash a dozen stories on you around bedtime – so tuck them in earlier so you have plenty of time to listen!

• Also see: Leave little notes in your child's lunchbox, it will make their day

5. Paying attention to something they show you

Children find the most ordinary things fascinating sometimes, and even if you've already seen what they have to show you, just take a moment or two to take another look.

It can be rather disappointing when you're excited about something and someone is completely indifferent to it.  

6. Treasuring their little gifts 

Children are known to give handmade gifts and think it is the most amazing thing on Earth, and so should you!  Display those notes, wear that macaroni necklace, show them how much you love their gifts.

7. Be their biggest hype man

Make your child feel good about something they did, something that you know is important to them. For example, landing a cartwheel or a new dance move, especially things they've been working hard on – make them feel extra proud of themselves. 

8. Have little inside jokes or handshakes

Being able to make light of certain situations with inside jokes is precious and makes you feel more connected to your child. Even having a personalised handshake will feel like something sweet and special, and your child will certainly treasure it. 

• Also see: Playing 'school-school' helps prepare kids for 'real school'

9. Weekly family traditions

Traditions give children something to look forward to, like Pizza and Movie Fridays, for example. Make sure to switch it up every now and then though, even traditions can become boring. 

10. Cloud and star-gazing

Let your imagination run wild and enjoy some cloud or star-gazing. You know, having pressing debates about the shapes you see and playing connect-the-dots with stars; it really is as cute as the movies make it seem.