10 tips for parents to connect well with their children

Have shared hobbies

Having shared hobbies can be a great source of joy between the child and the parents. From reading a book, painting, cycling to swimming, it is important for the parents to develop hobbies that interest their child in order to bond with them and create a strong connection. Time spent together joyfully creates lifelong memories.

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Show interest in their relationships

One of the strongest aspects of a child-parent bond is the comfort level that a child shares with his/her parents. To create this comfort zone at home, it is imperative for parents to show interest in their child’s relationships, be it with their peers or their teachers. Children should feel that they are being listened to and that the parents are the safe zone where they can freely share their feelings.

Adjust your parenting style

It is a fact that as the child ages, it will be necessary for the parents to adjust their parenting style. What worked in the pre-teen years, may not work in the teen years. Parents must read or find out more of what works with different age groups. It is not a one size fits all situation ever. Parents need to keep evolving and growing.

Try constructive praise and don’t compare 

Every child is unique and has certain areas of interest. As a parent if you help them explore these, rather than forcing them to do certain things, you will have a happier child. You should never compare children, rather through constructive criticism you can help them achieve all their goals.

Communicate with your kids and be a good role model for them. (Source: Getty/Thinkstock)

Be a good role model

Children tend to connect more with their parents when they see them practice what they say. Hence, it becomes important for parents to practice being good role models as children emulate what they see in their parents. Its important to walk the talk!

Communication is key

As parents, one must always have time to talk to their child regardless of the hour of the day or a busy schedule. As a child grows older, he/she may requires discussions and explanations and not just simple instructions which will create a better connection between the parents and the child. Parents must listen to their point of view and find solutions together.

Frequent compliments

It is very common for parents to react to their child when he/she is in the wrong. Rather that finding fault all the time parents must frequently compliment their children. “Catch them being good” and praise them often. This will lead to more positivity and a healthier relationship.

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Problem-Solving

Sometimes it is good to not fix everything and let the child do the brainstorming to come up with solutions to their problems. It is very important to not mollycoddle the children. As parents your job is to make them as independent as possible. Increasing dependency will only make your child lose confidence in his/her own abilities. Don’t prepare the road for your child, rather prepare your child to walk on every path confidently!

Be kind to yourself

Whoever said parenting was easy? It’s the most beautiful experience no doubt, but is can be quite difficult too! So, be kind to yourself and just do your best!

(An educationist and an administrator, Uttara Singh is the Director of the Shriram Millennium Schools)