It’s been over a month since my daughter started school (I still can’t believe we’ve reached this stage!), and I can’t shake the feeling that someone has pressed the fast-forward button on time. Days are flying by at lightning speed, and I can barely keep up with the endless to-do list. I’m certain every mom of a school-aged child can relate!

No circus clown could juggle as many things as a mom does daily. From September to July, mothers everywhere shift into high gear — multitasking champions, wearing countless hats: personal driver, counselor, event planner, cook, secretary, accountant, and so much more. Working tirelessly, often without breaks, for the well-being of their children, their families, and, honestly, the world. I have deep respect and admiration for all mothers who give their best every single day to keep it all together.

Every afternoon around 4–4:30 p.m., I pick Aida up from school. Most days, we go straight home since my workday isn’t over yet and I still have meetings to attend. During that time, she’s free to unwind however she likes after a long day at school. Often, she chooses to watch cartoons, but there are days when she prefers to draw at her desk or play with her Legos.

When my workday ends, around 6–6:30 p.m., the very first thing I do is go to her and sit down beside her. I don’t ask questions—maybe just a simple “What are you up to?”—but I offer her my full presence and attention, while also giving her the space to just be. It’s such a simple act, yet one that we, busy parents with a thousand thoughts racing through our minds, often forget to do.

When I simply sit next to her, consciously present, she opens up like a flower in sunlight. She invites me to play, shows me her drawings, or begins to tell me about funny or exciting things that happened at school. Even though our busy routines don’t always allow for long stretches of time together, even ten minutes of full, undivided attention makes a real difference. Truly.

Another thing I love is our car rides to and from school. They’re perfect opportunities to be present and connect. We pick our favorite songs, turn up the volume, and sing out loud together. The laughter, the energy, the shared joy—her smile says it all. Those moments lift our spirits instantly.

Sometimes we manage to stop by the park, go for a short bike ride around the neighborhood, or even just walk to the store together. These simple activities become powerful moments of connection. Being outdoors and moving our bodies helps both of us release the stress of the day and reconnect with each other.

I believe the key is to make the most of any time we have together—to be fully present and give our attention without distractions. Even though my daughter spends many hours away from me during the day, I do my best to be attentive to her needs—especially her emotional ones—when we are together.

One of my favorite parts of our daily routine is bedtime, when everything slows down. As we get ready for sleep, we relax and talk about our day, share some giggles, and of course, read a bedtime story. This little ritual—no matter how tired I am (and yes, there are nights when I’d rather be hit on the head than read another book!)—is such a powerful way to strengthen our bond, calm our minds, and leave behind the noise of the day.

Ah, I love these moments of connection that recharge both of us with warmth and joy. And just like that, I’m ready to do it all over again the next day.

What about you? Tell me about what you regularly do to connect with your kids.

Thank you,

The Red Fairy

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