It’s no secret that being a parent is one of the most challenging roles in the world. From doing research on various parenting styles to trying out different parenting hacks, we always go above and beyond to make sure we raise happy and successful children. But no matter what style we choose to use, at the end of the day, it still boils down to the kind of relationship every parent has with their children. The stronger the parent-child relationship, the better the upbringing.
Understanding parent-child relationships
The relationship between a parent and their child is a unique bond that nurtures the holistic growth and development of a child. It lays the foundation for their behavior, personality, traits and values. So why is a positive and healthy parent-child relationship important?
Importance of parent-child relationships
- Children who have a healthy relationship with their parents are more likely to develop positive relationships with other people around them. They can establish secure bonds and friendships with peers.
- They are better at regulating their emotions when faced with stress and difficult situations.
- A secure attachment with parents helps promote a child’s cognitive, emotional and social development. It also helps kids exhibit positive social behaviors.
- The healthy involvement of parents in their children’s day to day life helps ensure that their kids can perform better socially and academically.
- Children who have a secure and positive relationship with their parents learn essential skills and values that set them on the path for future success.
Tips to strengthen parent-child relationships
Constantly express your love for your children
This one may sound really basic, but it’s a must for every parent to tell their kids that they love them. Children need to constantly feel loved and secured. Make it a point to let them know you love them as they are growing up, no matter their age. Even amid disagreements and misunderstanding, make them feel that you love them unconditionally.
Give them attention
Being stuck in busy schedules isn’t and should never be an excuse for not spending adequate time with your little one. Always give them time and attention. Whether they are playing with their toys, watching television or enjoying their snacks, take time to sit with them. Simply talk to them, play with them, engage with them and give them undivided attention.
Develop traditions and rituals
Creating rituals and traditions increases a child’s feeling of security. While they are young, make it a point to develop lifelong rituals. For example, you can establish bedtime routines. Read them books before tucking them in at night. Then, make a weekly family ritual where you enjoy a particular activity every weekend, like a family lunch during Sundays or a movie night every Saturday. No matter their age and the ritual, the important thing is that you regularly spend time for activities that strengthen your bond as a family.
Eat meals together
Eating meals as a family is extremely important. Mealtime is the best time for having good conversations and sharing. This can be a fun bonding activity, too. Be sure to remove all distractions during meals. Turn the TV off and put all electronics away. This is the time when you can really talk and enjoy each other’s company.
Validate their feelings
If your child comes to you to share their feelings about anything, be sure to welcome them. Hear them out and make them feel they are understood. Perhaps they want to share about a bad day at school or their frustrations with homework. Whatever is causing their distress, be there for them. Don’t judge them. Validate their feelings and be open to discuss it with them.
The special bond between a parent and a child is one of the strongest and most genuine bonds anyone can have in their lifetime. Use these tips to continually nurture the relationship that you have with your little one.
Here at The Pillars Christian Learning Center, we value the importance of parent-child relationships, which is why we encourage parents to get involved and participate in their kids’ day to day activities. This way, children know and feel that they are accepted and valued for their uniqueness. Please feel free to contact us for more information.