How to help Children Build Relations with Parents and Others

Relationships are forged from birth and parents are the first in line in this respect. By forming relationships from an early stage, children discover who they are and also learn to understand various feelings which are conveyed through touch, words and facial expressions. Babies start developing relationships from birth.

Have you ever realised why is the newborn attached to her mother? This is because she recognises her face from the time she breastfeeds her. She understands that this person is special as she is a loving person and calms her down when she is in pain or feeling hungry. Feeling of trust and love start developing immediately.

As the child grows, she starts connecting with others through some fun activity. Playing simple games like peek-a boo with elder sibling or grandparents can be a great way of connecting with a loved one. The child understands that spending time together is pleasurable and satisfying.

A one and a half year old or a two year old wants to try out something new. It could be climbing up a high bed or cutting a packet of favourite chips, one should not be discouraged from doing such activities. With proper guidance the toddler can be encouraged to do such activities so that he can learn that his interests are taken care of.

Tips for a Better Relation

Participate in your child’s activities. Show interest in whatever your child is involved in. Even if it means watching Tom and Jerry, you should sit with your child and watch the show so that she understands that she gets the attention she requires. Forget age and time and play with your child. Hop, skip and jump to be part of his growing up period. He will also learn values like paying in a group and building relationships. You can also ask your 4 and 5 year old to be part of simple household chores like doing the bed or putting back toys inside the basket or folding the clothes. This will help the little one to understand the value of sharing work with loved one.

Understand and respect your child’s feelings. This is the time when a child starts showing different feelings. It teaches your child to trust her instincts. As a parent you should respect her feeling without making fun or rebuking her. We should accept their feelings and also start sharing the same emotions. This will improve the confidence of the child. The child at the same time should be encouraged to behave in an age appropriate manner. Teach your children especially older ones to vent their anger in ways like drawing a picture or backward counting. They can also write their feelings on a piece of paper as it will help them overcome their feelings.

Provide opportunities to develop relationships with siblings and peers. Encourage your children to play in groups as it will help them learn to share, and resolve fights. Arrange for play dates as it will not only foster relations with peers but also help adult interaction which the child will see and learn. These play dates can be used to nurture existing relations and make new ones. You can teach them how to interact with different kinds of children, how to share food and toys and also help others when they need it. For example, if a child falls while playing, you should encourage your child to help the  other one get up rather than mocking him.