Building connections with your children

Building connections with your children during school holidays is a wonderful opportunity to strengthen your bond and create lasting memories.

Here are some ideas to help you connect with your children during this time:

1. Plan special activities: Organise fun and engaging activities that you
can do together. This could include outings to parks, museums, zoos,
or local attractions. Consider their interests and hobbies when planning these activities.
2. Have dedicated one-on-one time: Set aside specific times for one-on-
one bonding with each of your children. This could involve taking them out for a meal, going on a walk together, or engaging in a shared hobby. This focused attention helps create a deeper connection.
3. Involve them in decision-making: Include your children in the
decision-making process for activities or outings during the holidays. Ask for their input and allow them to contribute their ideas. This empowers them and makes them feel valued.
4. Engage in shared interests: Find common interests or hobbies that
you can enjoy together. It could be playing a sport, cooking, gardening, painting, or even watching movies. Sharing activities that you both enjoy strengthens the bond between you.
5. Create traditions: Establish traditions during school holidays that you
can repeat year after year. This could be something as simple as a movie night, game night, or a special outing. These traditions help create a sense of anticipation and excitement for your children.
6. Listen actively: Take the time to listen actively to your children. Show
genuine interest in their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Encourage open and honest communication, and validate their emotions. This helps foster trust and deepens your connection.
7. Share stories and memories: Share stories from your own childhood
or significant memories with your children. This can be a great way to
bond and pass on family traditions or values. It also creates a sense
of connection across generations.
8. Support their interests: Show support and encouragement for your
children's interests and pursuits. Attend their sports events, recitals,
or performances. Engage in conversations about their hobbies and
passions. This demonstrates your investment in their lives.
9. Practice active play: Engage in active play with your children. Join
them in games, sports, or outdoor activities. This not only promotes
physical fitness but also creates opportunities for laughter, shared
experiences, and building a stronger connection.
10. Be present and attentive: Above all, be present and attentive when spending time with your children. Put away distractions, such as phones or work-related matters, and give them your full attention. Show them that they are a priority in your life.

Remember, building connections with your children is an ongoing process
that requires time, effort, and genuine interest. By investing in these
connections during school holidays, you can create a strong and lasting
bond with your children.