As my kids get older—now 15 and 13—I’m more aware than ever of the ticking clock. The days when they’ll ask me to head to the lacrosse field to shoot or join them for a quick game of basketball in the driveway are limited. One day, these moments will fade into memories, so when they ask, I try my hardest to never say no.

It’s easy to think that as they grow, they need me less. But I’ve found the opposite to be true. Even though they’re becoming more independent, these moments of play—whether it’s shooting pucks in the driveway, a quick game of “SHOT,” or a round of catch in the yard—are still just as important as they were when they were younger. They’re not just asking to play; they’re asking to spend time with me.

Here’s why I never want to say no when they ask me to join them:

1. Strengthening Our Bond

At 15 and 13, the dynamic between my kids and me has shifted. We have deeper conversations, bigger decisions to navigate, and more complex emotions to handle. But those simple moments of play still serve as a bridge. It’s not just about shooting pucks or throwing a ball around; it’s about being there for them. Every time I say yes, I’m showing them that no matter how old they get, I’m still here, still invested, and still willing to spend time with them.

2. Teens Still Need Connection

It’s easy to think that teens are consumed by their own lives—friends, school, sports—but they still crave connection with us as parents. When my son asks if I’ll go to the lacrosse field to shoot, or my daughter wants to play basketball in the driveway, I know it’s more than just wanting to work on their skills. It’s a way for them to connect with me on their terms. By saying yes, I’m reinforcing that connection and keeping the lines of communication open.

3. Creating Memories in Their Teenage Years

When my kids were little, playtime was automatic. But now, as they enter these teenage years, it’s something that feels more deliberate. I want them to look back and remember these moments—not just for the fun, but for the fact that we did it together. I’m keenly aware that the opportunities to play with them like this won’t last forever. Soon, they’ll have their own schedules, their own friends, and maybe their own families. But the memories we make now are ones that will stick with them long after they’ve grown up.

4. It’s Our Time to Talk Without Pressure

Sometimes, the best conversations happen when you’re shooting hoops or passing a lacrosse ball back and forth. When we’re outside playing a game of “SHOT” or tossing the ball in the yard, the conversation flows naturally. There’s no pressure, no agenda—just time spent together. They’re more likely to open up about what’s really going on in their lives, and I’m there to listen. It’s in these moments that we build trust and mutual understanding.

5. Physical Activity is a Gift

Beyond the emotional connection, there’s something to be said about the physical benefits of play. Sports and movement have always been a big part of our lives, and I want to keep that going. Whether it’s shooting pucks, playing basketball, or tossing a ball in the yard, I’m not just helping them stay active—I’m staying active with them. It’s a way to lead by example and show them the importance of movement, even as they juggle busier schedules.

6. Saying Yes is a Reminder That I’m Present

When they ask me to join them, whether it’s for a quick game in the driveway or a trip to the lacrosse field, they’re not just asking for my time—they’re asking for my presence. I know there will come a day when they stop asking, when they won’t need me to pass the ball or shoot pucks. But until that day comes, I want to make sure I say yes as often as I can. Because in the end, it’s not just about playing a game—it’s about being there when they need me, even if it’s just for 10 minutes in the driveway.

At 15 and 13, my kids are quickly growing into young adults. Their requests to play may not come as often as they once did, but when they do, I treat them like gold. It’s my way of staying connected, creating lasting memories, and reminding them—and myself—that no matter how busy life gets, family time will always come first.