Parenting Tip: Connecting

When we feel connected to someone we feel known, loved and cared for. As parents, we can be intentional with how we connect with our kids. So, how do you do that? How do you take time to connect with each of your kids? 

First, think about how they desire to spend their time. Is it sports, video games, crafting, online games? Come alongside them and do those things with them. Ask them questions about what they are doing and why they enjoy it so much?

Show interest in them. Kick back and take a break from adulting and play. Get outside with them. Go and engage in their favorite things. What will happen if you do? You will see smiles and happiness! You will experience them as they are. 

What will this do for your child? They will feel valued! Which is such a game changer in a child’s confidence.

What will this do for you? You will get a better glimpse of your child and will enjoy continuing the process of getting to know them at each stage of their life. 

Parents pour into their kids by providing all of the things. We feed them, buy clothes for them, take them to practices, rehearsals, parties and games. It’s a lot. 

So to spend time one on one with them outside the busy schedules can feel a bit above and beyond. 

I challenge you to carve out time to connect with them throughout the week. Maybe you can begin a new hobby together. You can even invite them into something that you enjoy and see if they are interested too. 

Remember, one of the best ways to connect is to sit next to them while they are playing something they enjoy and ask them questions and engage with them in their play.Take them out to a favorite restaurant or for a quick dessert and listen to what is going on in their life. These connections are important in cultivating a relationship of love and trust. 

You won’t regret the ways you chose to connect with your kids.

by: Cady Ruth Sentell, Children’s Minister