Cultivating Connection with Your Kids

Connection is a vital part of our lives. We weren’t created to do life disconnected or apart from other people. That goes for children, too. 

Children value and need connection just as much as adults, but they need help expressing that need and getting that need met. It’s important that as parents we foster deep, meaningful connection with our children so that as they grow up, they grow up knowing they’re valued, seen, and heard.

Why is connection important? 

Creating a culture of connection in our homes produces safety and trust, ultimately making our children feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, emotions, and struggles. 

Connection aids in healthy development in children! Connection is not only being physically present but also emotionally available. As the parent, you set the example.

Children learn by watching and observing. When you are emotionally vulnerable, when you openly share your feelings, when you are slow to anger and quick to humility, your child is picking up on these and learning that this is how they’re to operate, too. 

Connection creates promotes emotional well-being, resilience, trust, and positive familial relationships in our children. 

In an emotionally safe and connected space, children learn that their feelings and opinions are valued. They learn a life free from shame and insecurity. 

Practical Ways to Cultivate Connection

So, how can we create a deeper connection practically? Here are 4 ways you can develop a deeper connection. 

1. Be Present 

Show up fully. Set aside all distractions when you’re with your kids and give them your undivided attention. Maintain eye contact and express genuine interest and concern in their thoughts and experiences. 

2. Have Shared Activities 

Find activities you and your kids enjoy doing together! This could look like playing a game, watching a movie, cooking, or painting. Doing activities together that everyone enjoys creates memories and strengthens your bond with one another. 

3. Practice Active Communication 

Practice open and honest communication with your kids. Encourage the expression of thoughts and emotions freely without the fear of judgment. Ask open-ended questions and listen well. Their emotions aren’t yours to take on or fix, but validate them when they tell you what they’re feeling.

4. Empathy and Understanding 

When your kids express their emotions and experiences, meet them with empathy and understanding. Acknowledge and validate what they’re feeling and offer support. This builds trust and strengthens connection.