"Give them time, time, time!!  Children long for special time with you.  Take them to the local playground; play a board game with them; play hopscotch, jump rope, or tag; etc. I still remember (over 40 years later) the times my mother came outside and joined us in a game of dodge ball or jump rope.  It doesn't have to be very long, either -- one-half to one hour is usually enough for them, depending on their age." ~ Anonymous