There’s nothing quite like the bond between a parent and their children. Parents love their kids unconditionally but are also tasked with ensuring that they turn out to be successful, well rounded adults. And this means that they need to discipline them when they fall out of line, encourage them to make the right decisions and help them become good people. But all of this is only possible if their children allow them to be a part of their lives. Oftentimes, parents get caught up in their own worlds and forget to check in with their kids. And over time they slowly disconnect from their children and don’t have a grasp on who they are or what their lives are like. Children also start to view their parents as people whom they share a couple of meals with and nothing much else. But this won’t do. The bond between parent and child is integral to the way your child develops and grows. So if you’re looking for a few ways to keep yourself in the loop and connect with your little one on a daily basis, then this is the article for you! Read on to know them all!
1. Aim For 12 Hugs Or Physical Connections Everyday
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12 hugs may seem like a lot but it’s really not all that much when you start to practice it. Your little ones need to be physically comforted and loved. Hugging your kids will bring you closer to them and help them open up to you. So snuggle with your child first thing in the morning and right before they go to sleep. Let them wake up and go to sleep in a space that feels safe and secure. This way they will learn to trust you more. If your child is growing and doesn’t want to be coddled all that much then respect that and show them other forms of physical connections that they might be okay with. You can tussle their hair, pat them on the back and even rub their shoulders. The goal is to show your child that you care about them and love them in every chance you get.
2. Play With Them
This one is grossly underrated. Parents often think that in order for their kids to listen to them and respect them they need to be strict and aloof. But the best way to ensure that your child knows that you have their best interests at heart, is for them to feel how much you genuinely care about them. And a great way to do that is to take an interest in what they do. This usually means playing with them. Join in on the fun and make your kids laugh. This is also a great way to release endorphins and oxytocin so that you and your kids bond and get rid of any lingering awkwardness and anxiety. Playing with your kids will also ensure that they cooperate with you and take an interest in the things that you care about.
3. One On One Time Is Paramount
Having more than one child can complicate a lot of things. There’s always going to be some competition between the kids to get your attention and approval. So, this is why it’s important to spend some one on one time with each child. You can even assign days for a special activity with each one of them. This way none feels left out or neglected. This is also a great way to figure out who your kids are and what they need from you as a parent. You can keep track of their likes and dislikes, and shower them with love and affection while you’re at it.
4. Listen And Empathize
Listening is as important as talking while having a conversation with your little one. You are the person that they vent to and want to share their struggles with, even if they do seem trivial to you. So make sure that you pay close attention to them and help them express their feelings. Cultivate the habit of seeing things from your child’s point of view. This way you will have a better understanding of the challenges they face. Make sure you respect your kids and help them find solutions instead of simply telling them what to do. And remember that there’s a reason behind their behavior, so try to reign in your own emotions when your child’s emotions get the best of them.
Being a parent isn’t easy. You need to juggle so many responsibilities and still find the time to connect with your kids. But this needn’t be a chore. Once you cultivate a few easy habits, being an integral part of your child’ life will be easy