7 Ways to strengthen your relationship with your children

Every relationship can be strengthened! Implement these simple strategies into your family's routine and get closer than ever!

7 Ways to strengthen your relationship with your children

No matter how close you are with someone, there are always ways to strengthen a relationship. The bond between parents and their children is no different.

Many think that there are only two ways to approach the relationship between children and parents: disciplinarian or friend. Katherine Lee, former editor of Parenting and Working Mother magazines, disagrees. In fact, she thinks that there are many ways to approach this unique relationship.

In her experience as a mother and expert in the field, it's hard to classify each family's bond. However, she does believe there are a number of activities that parents can implement in order to strengthen the bond.

Here are 7 of her top suggestions:

1. Eating together

According to Lee, "An impressive body of research has shown a link between regular meals with kids and an increased likelihood of positive developmental benefits such as better health and eating habit."

Other benefits of this helpful (and delicious) bonding method include strong mental, emotional, and social skills; improved behavior; and better academic performance.

Obviously, it can be difficult to have meals together each and every night. Especially with all the busy and varying schedules bigger families have to manage. If you can manage to have a few meals together each week, go with that. Either way, try to make dinner engaging and encourage bonding at the table.

2. Communication

Lee suggests that even the smallest of verbal exchanges can lead to an improved relationship. For example, Lee is a huge advocate of talking to your children about their day. Ask them about the ups and downs, the ins and outs...everything that happened!

Furthermore, Katherine Lee says that you should also discuss your day with your kids. "By sharing something about yourself, you are showing your children that you value them as a person and feel close to them to confide in them, and you strengthen your bond and show them how important they are to you," she claims.

3. Play together

Lee believes that, "One of the best ways to bond with your kids is by having fun together. Go outside and ride bikes together or kick around a soccer ball. Or grab a fun family board game (make it an educational one if you wanna find something that'll challenge them cognitively) and encourage them to work on great social skills and good manners, like learning how to be a gracious winner or loser, while you have fun."

The point of this activity, no matter which game you choose, is to have fun together. You'd be wise to pick something that everyone can enjoy and have a good time doing. and then try to connect with each other!

4. Cuddling up

Cuddling, snuggling, hugging, whatever you choose to cal it. Either way, try to cuddle up with your younger children. It's a powerful way to express love and build security in your children. I strengthens the bond between you and your kids, and according to recent studies, it can reduce a child's risk of getting sick!

5. Showing respect

Obviously, you want your children to pay you respect when in your presence. However, it's mutually beneficial to show respect to your children.

"Parents should keep in mind that treating kids with respect is as important as disciplining kids," says Lee. "Even if your child has done something that requires you do discipline him, you can speak to him in a calm and loving manner."

Be sure to mind your "pleases" and "thank yous" around your kids also. Lead by example and in time they'll display the same good manners you show them. As a result, your relationship will be strengthened by mutual respect.

6. Asking for and lending a helping hand

Kids may not always be excited to help parents when asked to do so. However, Lee notes that "when you give them chores and responsibilities, you boost their self-confidence and make them feel valued."

Whenever your kids do lend you a helping hand, make sure you're encouraging them along the way. Let them know that you appreciate their help and that they're doing a good job. Eventually, your children will be more inclined to help you and even ask you for help. That's the kind of trust can only comes from a solid relationship.

7. Showing the love on a daily basis

Lee suggests it's the little things that matter most when it comes to expressing love on a daily basis. Sure, things like saying "love you" are expected, but there are tons of other (littler) things you can do to show your kids you love them! Try planning a fun weekend activity or leaving them cute notes in their lunchbox!

"Show your child every day how much he means to you and you'll be doing something to strengthen the bond between you and your child and make it lasting and unshakable," says Lee.

This article was originally posted on Very Well.

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