Page 66 - South Mississippi Living - April, 2025

blooming
story by Cherie Ward
FUTURES
Growing Healthy and Strong Bonds with Children
It’s easy to get wrapped up in the hustle of everyday life, sometimes forgetting how important it is to spend quality time with children. As little ones rapidly grow and change, they soak up the feelings of security and joyfulness as well as the love their parents provide, boosting their confidence, emotional well-being, and communication skills. That foundation can set them up for healthy relationships throughout high school and beyond.
You can build a positive parent-child foundational bond by being in the moment with your child, spending quality time together, and creating an environment where they feel comfortable exploring, asking questions, and learning.
Quality Time Over Quantity
It’s crucial to carve out uninterrupted, dedicated time to spend with your
child. Cook or bake together, stroll the neighborhood, or read a book, and make moments that help strengthen your bond.
Active Listening
Show genuine interest in your child’s thoughts and feelings with active listening techniques. Maintain eye contact,
nod, and respond with encouragement
so they feel they can freely express themselves. This signals their thoughts are valued, fostering a deeper parent-child connection.
Encourage Open Communication
Create an environment where your child feels safe to express their thoughts and feelings, showing them it’s okay to talk about difficult topics without fear
of judgment. Regular family discussions about the simplest subjects can facilitate comfortable, open communication.
Express Affection
Never underestimate the power of regular hugs, verbal affirmations, or simple gestures that can make your child feel loved and secure. Tell them you love them and express pride in their accomplishments, big or small.
Engage in Play
Playing with your child, regardless of age, can be an excellent way to bond. Play board games, front yard sports, or even imaginative living room activities. These shared experiences promote laughter, understanding, and a stronger connection.
Create Family Traditions
Establishing weekly movie nights, family game days, or special outings can create lasting memories and a sense of inclusion. These shared experiences strengthen bonds and impart a sense of stability and security.
Be a Role Model
Children learn through observation, so show qualities you want to instill in them such as kindness, patience, and effective communication. Your behavior sets the tone for how your child will interact with others and view relationships.
There is no secret handbook to getting the parent-child relationship right, and you’ll likely encounter hardships along the way. But don’t give up. Keep working and improving your relationship, and your child will surely thrive and blossom.
66 | April 2025
www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living