Educator and mother, Kassula Corrêa explains how to transform everyday life into moments of complicity and lasting emotional memories
Between hectic routines, work, homework and the constant presence of screens, many families struggle to truly connect with their children. But can what little ones want most fit into a tight schedule? For the educator and mother Kassula Correathe answer is simple: “they want us”. Presence, quality time, face to face.
“More than any toy or elaborate program, our children demand our attention. We need to rediscover the connection that arises in the small interactions of daily life”says Kassula, STG Group Director and Regional Director of Start an Anglo-bilingual school node Rio de Janeiro.
“We see this in schools. When we open spaces for collective games, conversation circles or even outdoor activities, the sparkle in the eyes appears. Children miss human contact, of being together. This has not changed, even in the age of screens.”account.
The challenge of parents in the digital age
A Foundation investigation Maria Cecilia Souto Vidigalin partnership with the Datafolihareveals that among children aged 4 to 6, 94% are exposed to screens (television, tablets, mobile phones) daily. This data is concerning, as the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics recommends a maximum of one hour per day of recreational use in this age group.
According to Kassula, balancing digital and real-world experiences is one of the biggest challenges of parenting today. “We don’t need to demonize screens, they are a part of our lives. But real connections and loving memories only come from human contact. When a father sits on the floor to play, cooks together, or suggests a walk outdoors, he is saying, ‘I’m all here.'”strengthens.
This presence is not just symbolic: it has a real impact on emotional and academic development. Studies in the field of child development indicate that children who live with attentive and present parents develop more self-confidence, concentration and social skills.
More presence, less performance
For Kassula, the invitation is simple: less consumption, more connection. “Of course, special moments might include a trip, a favorite dessert or a new game, but the memory that remains is different. Our children will remember the cake they made together, the impromptu picnic, the little cabin in the living room. It’s in these moments that they feel like they belong, that they are welcomed and loved,” explain. She suggests simple ways to strengthen the connection on a daily basis:
- Quality time: Turn off your cell phone and dedicate a few exclusive hours to playing or talking without interruption.
- “Yes Day”: Ask your child to choose the schedule for a day of the week, thus reinforcing his role.
- Contact with nature: a walk, a picnic, a bike ride or simply observing a garden, all of this reinforces complicity and calm.
- Creative activities: making up stories, making homemade theater or building something by hand stimulates imagination and partnership.
More ideas for everyday life
Kassula adds a few simple ideas that make a difference:read a book together and talk about the story; prepair a family recipe and distribute tasks; jplay a board game or do a puzzle; wcreate a small cabin with sheets in the living room; mcreate a time capsule with notes, drawings and photos.
“It’s not about creating a big event or spending a lot of money. It’s about being there, with your whole body, to show your child that they matter. It’s in these moments that childhood really happens, and they’re the ones that stay with us forever.”concludes Kassula Corrêa.
*Source: Adriana Hercowitz and Agência A Mais
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