Finding ways to connect with your kids doesn’t have to be difficult or time consuming. In fact the best way to make lasting connections is to do a little bit every single day.
Connecting with your Kids Everyday (made easy)
Talk over dinner – Or in the car. Or snuggling in the morning. Find a time of day that you can set as part of your routine. That way it will become automatic and you don’t have to think about making it happen. It just will.
Actually sitting down together will most likely be all you need to get connections going. If you need a little help though, try using “best and worst”. What was the best thing that happened today? What was the worst thing that happened today?
Look them straight in the eye – This may seem obvious, but as we move quickly through the day it’s very easy to forget to stop and really connect.
Take it even further and get down on their level. Squat or sit so that you are face to face. Click here for a visual that really shows how important it is to get down on their level.
Do activities together – YES! Do activities together! The great thing about activities is their entire purpose is to have fun. In that moment you aren’t moving through the normal routine of keeping your kids alive… you are playing with them!
Activities allow you to learn about what your kids like and don’t like. You see first hand what skills they really excel at and what they could use some more practice with. Activities give you a chance to connect in a really fun way.
This site is full of kid’s activities… so go ahead and look around.
If you are looking for a little extra guidance and accountability I’ve got just the thing for you. Jamie at Hands On: As We Grow has put together an incredible resource.
The Activity Room is packed full of super simple activities and monthly planners that will have you playing with your kid in no time! Read more about the The Activity Room.
Open up about yourself – What is the best way to connect with anyone? Share something about yourself. It’s no different with kids! If your little one is struggling with something that you have been through, share your own story.
Pull out old pictures and tell your kids stories about the people you knew when you were their age. Give your kids a chance to get to know you as a person, so they feel comfortable letting you get to know them. 🙂
Play games – Some kids (actually some people) would prefer to be doing something while they sit and chat. Games are a great way to connect without the pressure of constant conversation.
Keep an eye out for moments during the game when you can ask a question or start a conversation. My son and I have great chats over Backgammon
What are some simple ways you connect with your kids?
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Great article Jill! I especially love your idea of connecting with my kids doing activities together and it is so true that this reveals so much about who my kids are. They get a kick out of seeing mommy doing fun kid stuff!