
Why One-on-One Time With Each Child Matters
Let’s be honest—parenting can feel like a constant juggle. Between making lunches, wiping down benches, breaking up sibling arguments, and replying to school emails… it’s easy to get stuck in survival mode.
And in all the chaos, we can sometimes miss the most important part of it all—connection.
One-on-one time with each of your kids doesn’t just sound like a sweet idea. It’s one of the most powerful ways to help them feel seen, heard, and loved for exactly who they are.
No interruptions. No sharing your attention. Just you and them.
Even five minutes can make a world of difference.
Why One-on-One Time Really Matters
Because each of your kids is a whole world of their own.
And as much as you love them all, it’s hard to truly tune in when everyone’s talking over each other, someone’s yelling from the bathroom, and you’re trying to cook dinner without burning the rice (again).
When you spend time with one child at a time:
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You get to slow down and really see them
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They get to feel special, not just “one of the pack”
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The tension between siblings often softens (because they’re not competing for your attention)
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They’re more likely to open up, cooperate, and feel connected
You’ll probably notice: their behaviour shifts, their energy calms, and your bond deepens.
And yours does too.
Why It Feels So Hard to Do
You might be thinking:
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“I barely get five minutes to pee alone.”
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“My schedule is already full.”
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“I feel guilty I haven’t done this already.”
Hey—no guilt needed here.
You’re doing your best with what you have. One-on-one time isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing small moments with more intention.
How to Make It Happen (Without Overcomplicating It)
You don’t need a full day or a Pinterest-worthy activity. Connection lives in the tiny, quiet, everyday moments.
1. Use What You’re Already Doing
Turn ordinary into meaningful:
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Take one child grocery shopping and let them pick a treat
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Ask one to help you cook (yes, it’ll be messier—but they’ll love it)
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Sit on the edge of their bed for five minutes and ask about their day
2. Schedule It (Even 15 Minutes)
Pop it in your calendar like you would a meeting or appointment. A simple “You and Me Time” on a Sunday arvo or after school can go a long way.
Let them know it’s their time. It builds anticipation and deepens the bond.
3. Let Them Take the Lead
Ask: “What would you love to do, just you and me?”
It could be playing LEGO, drawing, a walk around the block, or just cuddling on the couch watching Bluey. It doesn’t need to be fancy.
4. Embrace Micro-Moments
If all you have is five minutes in the car or while folding laundry—use it. It’s not about the amount of time. It’s about how present you are in it.
Put down your phone. Look them in the eyes. Listen fully.
That’s the magic.
If You’re Feeling Behind…
Please don’t beat yourself up if this isn’t something you’ve done lately. Life is busy. You’re likely giving your all and then some.
This isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.
You don’t need to get it “right.” You just need to show up.
Even the smallest moment of one-on-one time can leave the biggest imprint on their heart.
What They’ll Remember
Not the toys. Not the snacks. Not even whether you were late to school pick-up.
They’ll remember how you made them feel.
They’ll remember when you listened.
When you laughed at their joke.
When they had you—all to themselves.
And you’ll remember it too.
Because these are the moments that refill your cup as much as theirs.