The relationship between parents and children is something that is very important but however not paid enough attention in recent times. A parent should know how and when to properly converse with his/her child/children. Most of us might think it's not really important and that good parenting means providing just enough for a child's to excel (food,shelter,clothing,and education). But what many of us fail to realize is that children also have personal problems,and most times they don't just need a parent to help,they need a friend. It's really no surprise that children nowadays would rather confide in their friends than their own parents,some children don't even like spending time with their own family.
Here are some things parents (and adults generally) should do to get closer to kids;whether little kids or teenagers
(Image from pixaby.com)
BE INVOLVED IN THEIR PERSONAL LIVES
Don't just pay attention to them when their schools call for PTA meetings or formal school gatherings, make sure you get to know them personally. Ask them how their day was when they get back from school, ask them about their friends, and ask them about their crushes or girlfriends/boyfriends. If your child can trust you with such topics, he or she can trust you with anything
(Image from pixaby.com)
LISTEN TO THEM
Don't always be the active person in a conversation. Listen to what they have to say. Kids; most especially teens,are usually very imaginative and their thinking is much more creative than adults. Dismissing their thoughts always discourage them and this weakens their self confidence. Give them a chance,listen to what they have to say,and if their ideas aren't good enough,tell them gently. This helps a lot.
(Image from pixaby.com)
DO NOT COMPARE THEM TO OTHER CHILDREN
This is something you must never do to your child,ever. Comparing children to their friends or other children damages them psychologically. It makes them feel useless and it makes them feel like they are not wanted. Continuously comparing your child to another will make him feel insecure while growing up. Children have different individual capabities,our minds work in different ways. Always let your child know you're proud of him/her. Let your child know that no one is perfect but everyone can improve. Do not be overly harsh while correcting him/her. This will go a long way in securing your relationship with your child AND making your child a better person.
(Image from pixaby.com)
KNOW YOUR CHILD'S FRIENDS
Be familiar with your children's close friends,be part of their games occasionally. Invite them over for dinner or parties or get together from time to time. This will make him/her much more comfortable. Most kids don't always like their parents and their being in the same place. Moreover, being familiar with your kids' friends come in handy most times. It's a good way of keeping track of your child's movement
(Image from pixaby.com)
BE THEIR BEST FRIEND
Do everything with them.Play videogames with your son,go shopping with your daughter. Stay up late chatting with them,talk about casual things,keep things light and friendly. Ask them about new gadgets. Learn new things from them. Be friendly when giving them advice and tell them stories from when you were young. Just be interactive with them. That's all.
(Image from pixaby.com)
Of course these tips are not just for parents alone,it's useful for adults generally or people that have to interact with teenagers or small children regularly. I hope this helps a lot.
Thank you all for taking your time to read this post.