How Much Time To Spend With Kids

Too Much Or Too Little?

I am conflicted. Sometimes I feel like they want me at arm’s length, and other times I feel guilty for not being at their side as we get through summer.  After all, the kids are either running from friend to friend like a maniac, or terminally bored at home while I try to work and make a buck or two.

Sometimes I feel guilty for not spending enough time with my kids. Don’t get me wrong, I do spend a good amount of time, and will routinely interrupt my day to do something with them, but at times, I feel bad, like I am not doing enough.

They are not clamoring for me to be by their side helping them message their friends, watch Hannah Montana, or playing on the X-Box. But on the other hand, I wonder if I should be more available to them. The economy has taken a toll on a lot of the summer excursions, so I feel guilty to a degree.

They all know I am always here for them under ALL circumstances, but how much time is the right amount of time to spend?

Any suggestions?