Having a close relationship with parents is vital for their growth and development as it is one of the most important bond they have in their life. This relationship provides a foundation for the child to understand and explore their environment, helping shape their perspective about the world. When the bond between parent and child is strong, parenting also becomes easier as children who feel connected to their parents are more likely to listen, follow directions and offer help. They can share any problem or stress with their parents, providing a sense of security, self-worth, and self-esteem. Children who have a strong connection with their parents tend to have better academic success and better mental health outcomes.
Here are some strategies that can help:
1. Spend quality time together –
Making time for your child and engaging in activities that they enjoy can help strengthen the parent-child bond. This might involve setting aside a specific time each week for one-on-one activities or making an effort to do things together as a family like cooking, painting, reading, watching shows, or going on a walk.
2. Be present and attentive –
It’s important to be present and attentive when you are with your child, rather than being distracted by your phone or other distractions. This can involve actively listening to what they have to say, asking questions, and showing genuine interest in their lives.
3. Show love and affection –
Devoting your attention and being present at the moment when you are with your child is crucial for creating a strong bond. Instead of getting lost in your phone or diverting your mind towards other distractions, take the time to listen to them, ask questions, and show a genuine interest in their lives and stories. By doing so, you’ll create lasting memories and be an active participant in your child’s development.
4. Practice open communication –
Encouraging open and honest communication with your child can help build the parent-child relationship. This involves creating a safe and non-judgmental space for your child to share their thoughts and feelings and being willing to listen and have open and honest conversations.
5. Practice forgiveness –
It’s important to model forgiveness in the parent-child relationship. This means acknowledging when you have made a mistake and apologising, as well as being willing to forgive your child instead of scolding and punishment when they make a mistake.
6. Be a good role model –
Children learn from their parents and often model their behaviour after their parents, so it’s important to be a good role model for your child. This means showing respect, compassion, and kindness towards others, and demonstrating healthy habits and behaviours. Setting healthy boundaries with your child can also help establish a sense of security and stability. This involves establishing rules, regulations, and routines on certain things like the usage of mobile phones, personal hygiene, not being involved in fights, etc.
7. Seek support –
Nurturing a strong relationship with your child can prove to be a difficult task at times, and it is completely acceptable to seek help when needed. This can mean turning to trusted loved ones for advice or consulting with a professional counselor. Counselors offer a confidential and neutral environment for parents to voice their worries and work through any mental or emotional hurdles. They offer guidance, support, and advice to parents on effective communication, conflict resolution, and positive reinforcement techniques.
It is important to spend quality time with your kids for their holistic development. by dedicating quality time, open communication, and modelling positive behaviour you are laying the foundation for emotional security and academic success. When things get tough, seeking help ensures a supportive environment for a happy parent-child relationship.