Recent research on child development and parenting practices tells us that children are “hardwired” from birth to connect with others. It also shows us that children who feel a sense of connection to their parents and family members are less likely to act out, engage in power struggles and fight with sibblings.
Children who feel a strong connection to their parents are more likely to have positive and healthy self-esteem, enjoy learning, and are generally more cooperative and helpful.
Here are 25 simple ways to create more connection with your child every day:
- Smile more than you frown
- Hug – often!
- Say yes a lot
- Learn something new together
- Share a snack and/or meal together
- Write up a love note ( A text for those older kids counts too)
- Listen to your child’s favorite song
- Hold hands even if for just a moment
- Tell your child you missed them while they were gone
- Ask your child about highs/lows of the day
- Give undivided attention (every little bit counts)
- Avoid criticism
- Use encouraging words
- Create something together
- Get outside and play
- Admit to your own mistakes
- Ask questions
- Listen to the answers
- Really watch when you hear “Hey! Watch this!”
- Talk about dreams & fears
- Take silly pictures
- Cuddle
- Ask, offer & accept help
- Create a special hello & goodbye hug or handshake
- Keep your promises
There are so many more wonderful ways to connect, so I would love to know, what would you add to this list?
Peace & Be Well,
Ariadne
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Ariadne Brill
Coach
Ariadne is a happy and busy mama to three children. She practices peaceful, playful, responsive parenting and is passionate about all things parenting and chocolate. Ariadne has a Masters in Psychology and is a certified Positive Discipline Parenting Educator. She lives on top of a beautiful mountain with her family, and one cuddly dog.
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