How many times have your kids nagged you to stop what you were doing and play a game with them? It always seemed that when I was busy my kids would want me to play a game. It was irritating because I hate to stop work when I'm in the middle of something. I'm one of those people who likes to finish what I start. But children are persistent and most parents can't say no for very long.

One unusual aspect is that children seem to have an uncanny sense of timing. If you pay close attention you will notice that the times children want to play are the times when adults need to play the most. It seems they are much more perceptive than we give them credit for. Perhaps they intuitively sense our needs and act at the right moments. Luckily for us, they do.

We need to play more often but most of us don't realize it. Taking time out to enjoy a pleasurable activity can alleviate stress, clear our minds and leave us feeling refreshed. Although I would initially complain about being interrupted to play a game, once I became engrossed in the activity, I was glad I did. I no longer thought of it as an interruption or inconvenience but rather as a much needed interval.

Any type of game can be a beneficial distraction. If the weather is agreeable and the kids want to play outside then by all means, go outdoors and enjoy nature. The outdoors provides for numerous activities to choose from. Play a game of football, baseball or soccer. Toss a Frisbee or just take a walk. If the weather doesn't permit for outdoor activities, play a board game instead. Checkers, monopoly or a game of cards

Laugh and enjoy yourself. In the process you can lower your stress level and spend quality time with your family. Often we get so absorbed in our work that we become consumed. We usually end up tired and irritable because we don't know how to pull ourselves away from our work. For some individuals, it is difficult to separate the workplace from home. Many people bring their work home with them and put in a much longer work day than the average eight hours.

Actually, the small distractions our children provide us with are pleasant opportunities to relax and recharge. Think of it as a mini vacation. You'll be glad you did. At first you might not appreciate the interruption but before you tell your child, "Not now," reconsider. I'm not saying that you should stop what you're doing every time your child says, "Mom" or "Dad" and cater to their desires. But what I am saying is to think about how important it is that you finish what you're doing right then and there.

If you have a deadline to meet and your project must be completed within a specified time frame then explain this to your child or children. On the other hand, if you can finish your task later you might want to consider doing so. Give your kids a break and give yourself one too.

Darlene Zagata is a freelance writer and columnist for the print publication Moon Shadows Magazine. She is also the author of "Aftertaste: A Collection of Poems" and "The Choosing." Her work has been published extensively both online and in print. For more information visit her website at http://darlenezagata.tripod.com or contact Darlene at darzagata@yahoo.com

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