Let's face it, life's busier than ever! Between work and life responsibilities, the days pass in the blink of an eye. As a result, many of us have a degree of concern about the amount of time we have to spend with our kids.

So how can we tackle this sense of guilt and worry? We've put together some suggestions for making the most of the time we have with them during our increasingly busy schedules.

Put it in your schedule

Although scheduling in dedicated time with family might sound a bit unspontaneous, it can be a great way of ensuring quality time happens regularly. 

Whether it's a weekly board games evening, a monthly fun outing to mini-golf or the zoo, or something as simple as getting home by 6.30pm for dinner together, put it in your schedule and commit to making it happen.

Find common interests

Use your own hobbies or everyday tasks as an opportunity to find common interests with your kids. Get them to help out in the kitchen, and maybe you'll help them discover a love of cooking; if they like the outdoors, grab them a pair of gardening gloves.

They might not love it at first, but it may well turn into one of their favourite things to do!

Quality time, not quantity

When you're time-limited, the moments you share with your kids are absolutely critical. Make sure you're totally present and give them your full, undivided attention. That means turning your phone onto silent, keeping the work laptop closed and turning off the tele.

When you properly connect and interact with your kids, these are the moments both you and your family will treasure most.

Show you care

Even when you can't be by their side, doing little things to remind your kids you're thinking of them can do wonders for their self-esteem - like leaving a note in their lunchbox, or sending them a text message during the day.

Be sure to keep a calendar of key dates such as sports days, tests and exams so you can give them a timely word of encouragement or support when they need it most.

Another way to show that you care is by arranging health insurance for you and your family, so you can spend time together without the worry of illness or financial concerns. It gives you the peace of mind knowing that your family can get the treatment they need when they need it.

Most of all, remember the years with your kids fly by. So use these practical suggestions to savour the moments you have together.