Light House Denver – Educational psychologist Orissa Anggita Rinjani, M.Psi. A graduate of Universitas Indonesia, emphasized the long-term effects of spending quality time with children. She explained that dedicating meaningful time to children positively influences their personalities and behaviors as they grow into adulthood.
“Quality time can have lasting impacts, fostering a positive self-view and helping children develop secure attachment. This enables them to explore more confidently, become independent, regulate emotions, delay gratification. Also cooperate better when following instructions,” Orissa stated during the Transpulmin “A Touch to Remember” press conference in Jakarta on Wednesday.
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Orissa pointed out that parents who establish strong connections with their children can better guide them toward exhibiting desired behaviors. A close relationship between a mother and child, for example, shapes how children build relationships with others later in life. This foundation encourages empathy in friendships and lowers the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors such as drug use or other problematic activities.
Additionally, a strong bond between parents and children can help mitigate negative peer pressure during adolescence. Orissa explained that adolescence is often seen as a vulnerable stage not solely due to peer influence but also because a lack of attachment to parents can increase the risk of problematic behaviors.
“Teenagers may face pressure from their peers, but the strength of their attachment to their parents significantly influences whether they engage in problematic behavior. A solid parent-child bond plays a more crucial role in reducing risks than the influence of peer groups,” said Orissa, a psychologist at Dandelion Counseling House.
Although working parents may face challenges in maintaining consistent quality time, Orissa stressed that even limited time spent with children must be prioritized. Emotional support and positive engagement remain key to building a strong bond between parents and children.
“There must be a minimum amount of time set aside daily to ensure quality is maintained. If the bare minimum is overlooked, it becomes harder to bridge the gap and rebuild the connection,” Orissa explained.
She shared several practical tips for parents to create quality moments with their children, even amid busy schedules. Setting aside at least 15 minutes daily, either before or after work, can make a significant difference.
Activities during this time can include shared routines such as breakfast, light exercise, reading, or giving gentle massages. Families can also create unique rituals that strengthen emotional bonds and foster a sense of togetherness, such as special dances or interactive games.
Beyond shared activities, physical touch from parents, particularly mothers, plays an essential role in a child’s emotional development. Physical contact helps children feel loved, secure, and less stressed.
“The psychological effects of touch, like a hug during moments of sadness or stress, bring warmth and reassurance. This physical connection also positively impacts a child’s intellectual development,” Orissa explained.
By dedicating consistent time and attention, parents can nurture secure relationships with their children, setting a strong foundation for emotional resilience, positive social connections, and healthy coping mechanisms as they grow.
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