It’s a pleasant day, the sun is streaming in through the windows as you set the table with hot, delicious food for your tired child. You hear the school bus screech to a halt down the driveway and the excited chatter of kids. You patiently wait, eager to spend quality time with
your child after a long day. But instead of greeting you with a smile, your child goes straight to their room and slams the door shut.
If you constantly experience similar situations with your child, take a moment to relax.
Recurring troubled experiences with your child is not a sign that your child dislikes your company however, it may suggest a lack of communication. The early stages of adolescence deeply impact a child’s behaviour. They may feel misunderstood, judged, bullied and pressured. Sometimes, the fear of misinterpretation prevents teens from communicating how they feel.This causes them to retreat into a shell,
eventually drifting away from loved ones.
Here are a few ways you can be your child’s friend & not an authoritative figure they fear
● Respect Their Choices – While being a parent requires you to guide them to the right path, it is also important to let children make their own mistakes. Let them be responsible and independent on their own terms.
● Converse – Take out time to discuss important taboo topics with your child and let them voice their opinions. Conversing is the only way to create a secure environment for your child to be comfortable with you and share their struggles without feeling judged.
● Explore Interests Together – Sign up for a fun Zumba class, take painting lessons together, go on vacations or picnics. Let them know that friend and parenting are synonymous when it comes to you.
Next time you are faced with a comparable situation, act with kindness and empathy.
All your child needs is a friend in you.
● Respect Their Choices – While being a parent requires you to guide them to the right path, it is also important to let children make their own mistakes. Let them be responsible and independent on their own terms.
● Converse – Take out time to discuss important taboo topics with your child and let them voice their opinions. Conversing is the only way to create a secure environment for your child to be comfortable with you and share their struggles without feeling judged.
● Explore Interests Together – Sign up for a fun Zumba class, take painting lessons together, go on vacations or picnics. Let them know that friend and parenting are synonymous when it comes to you.
Next time you are faced with a comparable situation, act with kindness and empathy.
All your child needs is a friend in you.
