Parenting Hacks
Parenting is challenging, here are some tips to build a healthier bond with your child.
It all starts with cultivating a strong relationship with your child. Calm and understanding communication with your child is essential for maintaining a strong parent-child relationship. With a strong parent and child relationship you can help your child navigate through the complexities and challenges of life.
When having difficulties with your young person and managing difficult behaviours, it is important to come from an understanding perspective. Remember that, children and teens have not learned how to articulate their emotions and thoughts, and when they ‘act out’, they are communicating how they feel. Be patient and try to figure out why your child is behaving this way. A child that is understood will develop self-esteem, confidence, and learn to express emotions, which will translate to healthier adult behaviours.
Communication (developing respect, empathy and confidence)
Respectful Listening: Ensure your teen feels heard without turning every conversation into a lecture. Respond with empathy and acknowledge their feelings to make them feel understood and respected.
Staying Calm: Approach difficult conversations with a calm demeanor. This prevents emotional escalation and keeps the lines of communication open. It is very difficult to try and support a child that avoids conversations and locks themselves in their room because they do not feel that their parents can hold their emotions together
Praise and Recognition: Regularly acknowledge and praise positive behavior and effort. Positive reinforcement can motivate teens to continue good habits
Setting Boundaries: Establish clear realistic rules and boundaries while explaining the reasons behind them. This helps teens understand the importance of limits and fosters mutual respect for self and others.
Effective Instructions: Be clear and concise when giving instructions. Repeatedly reminding your teen can lead them to tune you out, so ensure your instructions are straightforward and direct
Building a strong a supportive relationship with your child.
Supporting Interests: Encourage and show interest in your teen’s hobbies and passions. This builds trust and shows that you value their individuality. Even better if the parent can be involved in a shared interest together.
Regular Family Meals: Devices off and away, eating together regularly can improve communication and strengthen family bonds. It provides a routine opportunity for teens to open up about their lives in a comfortable setting
Implementing these strategies can enhance communication with your young person, helping to build a stronger, more understanding relationship.
