Your child’s mental health directly relates to their relationship with you and the rest of your family. As parents we are responsible for helping our children develop into well rounded individuals. Building a relationship with your children will help with their mental health in the process. This responsibility doesn’t always come naturally or easily for some. In this post I will share with you how to go about making time for your children and building relationships with them.

In today’s fast-paced world parents are often busy juggling many plates simultaneously. This can affect their ability to make time for their children. But it’s critical that parents set time aside just for their children. The goal isn’t necessarily to spend hours with your children but rather focus on meaningful interactions and relationship building. When it comes to your relationship more is not always better, it’s like quality over quantity. 

A quality conversation

A quality conversation is one where both people feel heard validated and respected. It’s a conversation where you take the time to listen. Thinking about what your child has just said before you reply. A conversation that doesn’t involve talking at each other and in the correct language. A quality conversation can be short but long enough to share their thoughts and feelings with no interruptions.

Planning holidays that meet your children’s needs

Planning holidays that meet your children’s needs can be a challenge, but it’s worth the effort. Make sure to consider what activities they enjoy and what might help them get out of their comfort zones. It is the perfect opportunity to build new fun memories together and strengthen your bond. You can consider family adventure holidays that let you plan fun things together over a few days. 

You’ll also want to think about how much time they spend in school what their routine is like. Seeing how much family time they’ve had in recent months. If you wish to create time together you also need to respect their needs. They may need to study for an upcoming exam or if they have plans with friends. So scheduling time away from home may not have the beneficial effect you’re hoping for. Sometimes a few days such as a weekend getaway can be the best solution to keep it balanced and sustainable for everyone. 

Let them share their hobbies

It can be hard to find the time to do it all and make your children feel loved but it is essential. One of the best ways you can show them you care is by getting to know their hobbies and trying them with them. Sharing a hobby is a bonding experience with your child regardless of their age. It becomes especially meaningful with teenagers as they are more appreciative of your efforts to support them. This will give you a chance to get closer while giving your child access to an adult who they trust and admire. 

Then maybe you can also arrange for a hobby swap where each of you can introduce the other one to their favourite hobby?

Embrace modern communication

Hands down the most important thing you can do as a parent is talking to your kids in the language they prefer. Modern communication methods are great tools for connecting with your kids including social media Discord and Whatsapp. But there are some rules to bear in mind:

• When reaching out to these platforms you have to make sure you don’t act as an authority figure online. Being someone who chastises them online will only get you blocked from them.
• Fast communication such as Whatsapp or Discord often mixes memes and gifs to make a point. The better you can read through the lines the closer your connection will be .
• Of course there is a suitable age for everything. Is social media suitable for children? Yes if they are old enough to recognise the risks and protect themselves. 

Can you gain something from modern communication? The truth is that you can maintain direct access to your child and help them reach out to you at any point in the way they feel the most comfortable with. 

Hopefully these few ideas can help you create quality time with your child.