
You may know perfectly well that your child needs your love above all. It is a generally accepted statement that can’t be argued really. However, it is less often explained what this love is about. Yes, it is about security, care, tenderness and acceptance. But…how to express love in everyday life and to show borders; how to maintain mutual connection and to care of your own needs too; how to stay loving and understanding and to react reasonably to something naughty or really bad done by your child; how to praise your child raising their self-confidence and not to spoil them?
So…in my opinion, love is about helping your child to find some balance in life based on understanding that you need to love yourself and, yet to love other people the way you love yourself.
Still, it is easier said than done. Parents have a rather difficult task to be their children’s guides until those grow up and can be guides themselves.
In this article, I would like to sum up some really good tips that can relieve this stress. So here they are.
Build a habit of saying ‘I love you’.
Even if your child is still a baby, he or she can feel your mood very well. Expression of your eyes, the tone of your voice and your smile when you say ‘I love you my sonny (daughter)’ can definitely warm your kiddy’s heart giving them confidence and strength to come through all the the things the day can present. Say these words to each other when the child is older because these are what we all need most.
Smile to your child and keep the eye contact.
It is relevant if you have a small baby as well as an older kid or even a teenager. This way you establish connection, attract the child’s attention and can start playing, communicating or discussing something important.
Make up rules together.
Rules are great because they show borders or, in plainer words, they clarify what is good and what is bad. As long as a kid doesn’t have much life experience, only parents can prompt them what, how, when and why to do something (or not to do). Explain each rule, answer your child questions in case they arise and stick to the rules after they are set. Sure you can modify some rules together if there is room for it. Your children grow and some changes are inevitable. However, the moral side and safety need to stay prioritized.
Spend time together.
Yes, you may work and have many cares and duties (about household or your own health or hobbies, for example) but MAKE time for your child. You can play, talk or do something compelling with them. It is about quality in the first place, not even time. Put away all gadgets and be all ears and eyes for your kid Listen to them, follow them and give them the best of you during this activity. Every day make this time for your child.
Refuse from any kind of aggression.
Children’s minds are very sensitive and you never know which harsh word or gesture or look can stay in their memory of your kid forever. Be patient and careful. If you are not satisfied with the behaviour of your kid, if something really wrong is done by them, explain why it is not good, explain how this action makes you feel. Say that you are sad and want things to be different. Say why this or that kind of behaviour or deed is not proper. We all make mistakes and children too. Your responsibility is to show that it is a mistake, to discuss it patiently and to help your child correct it.
Ask questions about your child’s feelings and observe their state.
When your baby cries or looks a bit pale, stressed or sick, you are always near to check their temperature, to comfort them and to stroke their nice heads. As your child grows, they need your attention no less. Be the person your kid can always turn to, keep their trust by being sincerely interested in how they feel. This way you will be always a good friend and a loved teacher for your child. Your words will have a real value because these are the words of a loving person.
I hope, these tips will help you keep a good relationship with your child. Start now and here while your baby is small and don’t lose this strong connection as they grow. Keep your mutual love 💖.