1 April 2024
Small opportunities to connect during the day
Reading time: 4,5′
All children should hear daily that they are being loved and that they are our first priority, no matter what happens.
In the fast pace of modern life, and because time is limited, it’s worth considering some ways to connect with our child that communicate this message clearly and can easily be incorporated into our daily routine.
Many times, it’s helpful to set an electronic reminder for this. The more we follow through, the more our child feels comfortable and that we’re always there for them.
Here are some ways we can easily incorporate into our daily lives:
- Snuggle with each of your children for 2-3 minutes in the morning before they wake up. Either get into bed with them or give them kisses and hugs. Choose any type of physical contact that works best for your case.
- During breakfast time, we can each take 1 minute to discuss the goal of the day.
- For many children who struggle with morning preparation, we can make it easier as follows: take a photo of our child at each stage of the morning routine and create a board. Instead of pressuring them to do anything, we show them the next photo in line with a smile and encourage them to continue. If we want, we can give them a hug each time they complete something.
- We can slip a love note between their books or in their lunchbox saying, for example, “I love you,” “Have a good day,” “Take care.”
- We can sing a nice song while walking to school or in the car.
- Hug as much as you can. When parting for school, before sleep, before an activity, etc. Also, if the child is not receptive to hugs, we can do a high five or a simple tap on the shoulder.
- During departure for school, it’s very nice to tell the child that we can’t wait to meet again in the afternoon and hear their news. Also, we can accompany it with a phrase like: “Have a great time,” rather than phrases like “Pay attention to your teacher” or “Be wise.”
- It’s a good idea not to bring work home, and if possible, when entering the house, not to use our phone.
- Inside the car, if it’s not time to play music and sing with the child, it’s good for the music to be turned off, and we can discuss with the child the day’s news or whatever they want to talk about that pleases or concerns them.
- During mealtime, we can ask a very interesting question and each one can answer in turn, expressing their opinion and view.
- During bedtime storytelling, smell your child’s hair or hug them tightly.
- During bedtime, you can wish each part of the child’s body goodnight separately: for example, ‘Goodnight ears,’ ‘Goodnight shoulders,’ ‘Goodnight hands,’ etc. This is also a way to relax before sleep combined with bonding, which delights children!
- When you’re lying down in the dark, hug your child and tell them how lucky you are to be their parent.
These are small moments in our daily lives that strengthen the connection with our child. Don’t hesitate to add new ones or adjust these to your family’s habits and lifestyle!