Every Moment Matters - The Power of Meaningful Time with Children

Today, parents balance work, home and countless responsibilities, and many probably ask themselves: “Am I spending enough time with my child?” According to Dibber International Preschools, the real magic lies not in how much time we spend, but how we spend it. It's about quality, not quantity and creating intentional, emotionally rich moments that help children feel seen, heard, and valued.

“Children don’t measure love in hours,” says Ursula Assis, Country Director at Dibber South Africa. “They notice your presence.  Warm, focused attention can strengthen a child’s sense of belonging and confidence.”

At Dibber, the emphasis is on building connections through everyday routines. Whether it’s greeting a child by name at the door, sharing a story under a tree, or inviting them to help set the lunch table, these simple moments become the building blocks of emotional security and self-worth.

Parents often feel pressured to carve out large chunks of time, plan elaborate outings, or feel guilty when they can’t do it all. But Dibber encourages a different approach.

“We believe quality time can happen while peeling vegetables, folding socks, or walking around the block,” adds Assis adds. “What matters is being emotionally present, engaging with warmth, and inviting children to be part of our daily rhythms.”

Integrating children into family life by encouraging independence, curiosity, and conversation - parents create consistent opportunities for bonding. Tools like toddler-friendly step stools, learning towers, or child-sized utensils not only support independence, but also spark joyful participation in shared tasks.

The Dibber approach mirrors this at home and in the classroom. Teachers use open-ended materials, self-help stations, and collaborative rituals to promote agency and connection. At home, parents can recreate this spirit through mini rituals like singing a favourite song during bath time or naming the colours of the jacaranda trees on the way to school.

For those wrestling with guilt, Assis offers a gentle reminder: “Connection isn’t measured in hours. It’s measured in presence. When you show up with attention and warmth - even briefly - it matters deeply”.

According to Dibber, children thrive in environments where they feel trusted and included. Involving them in age-appropriate tasks, allowing space for exploration, and offering undivided attention during small moments contributes to long-term emotional wellbeing and resilience.

“From our classrooms to your homes, we encourage families to let go of perfection and instead embrace presence. You’re likely already creating the moments that matter - and with just a little intention, they become memories children carry for life,” concludes Assis.