If you are a mother, you need to know some ways you can get involved in your child’s life! Many people think that being involved may come naturally, but it’s not always the case. Check out my tips on how to be involved in your child’s life. Read on.
1. Listen
If you make the effort to show from the very beginning that you really listen to your child, he/she (regardless of age) will always come to you to talk about the situations and problems in his/her life. It’s important to learn how to read between the lines, since children, especially teens, might not come right out and say what they’re feeling.
2. Make an effort
Making an effort is very important. It is not going to be simple, since there will be days when you feel like you do not have the time to make it to your child’s soccer game or ballet recital. But you should make an effort, and find time to spend with your child!
3. Be supportive
Everybody wants someone to notice them and to say “you are beautiful” or “don’t worry, you’ll certainly do it!” This is support system and children automatically look to their parents to be supportive! Even if you don’t understand your child’s interests and decisions, make an effort to support them all the time!
4. Remember important things
Things that are really important to children may not be so important to adults, but try to remember things that are important to your child. Be sure to remember such things as birthdays, recitals, graduations, and any other event your child’s involved with. Children need to know that their parents are proud of their accomplishments!
5. Get involved with your child’s school projects
School is one of the best ways for parents to get involved in their kid’s life! Show your interest in what your child is learning. Encourage your child in their grades. Help with projects and homework. Attend at least one parent-teacher conference. And try to be present at school programs or functions when possible!
6. Set aside time for your child
Another way you can get involved in your child’s life is to set aside time every week to spend with your child. Maybe it is on a lunch break or at bedtime. Just be sure to keep focus on your kid, talk with her/him about things that are important for her/him. This will show your kid that he/she is special to you!
7. Don’t laugh at your child
As a mom, you’re the only source of encouragement and support that your kid needs the most. There is a big difference between having a chuckle at something nice your child says and laughing at some mistakes and ideas your child has. Never laugh at or make fun of your children in any situation!
8. Don’t forget about discipline
Finally, discipline is an effective and important part of being involved in your kid’s life! Parents, who do not discipline their kids, are sending their children the message that they actually don’t care. These children can get labeled as “troublemakers” because they continue to push the rules and try to do the wrong things just to see if it catches their parents’ attention. So don’t skip discipline and don’t avoid having even the most difficult talks with your children.
Being involved in your child’s life is a big deal. But try to keep the balance healthy and remember that children also need time without you in order to become independent. Now, all moms out there tell us, in what ways do you get involved in your child’s life? Share your thoughts, please!