The relationship between a parent and child is the one relationship you want to think of as being glorious and picture perfect but let’s face it, it’s becoming one of the most strenuous and complicated relationships that people are experiencing.

So why has parenting become so difficult and how do we make it an easier and more enjoyable process?

Children nowadays have different experiences, expectations and stressors than children 20 years ago.  At a young age the pressure is on to perform and reach milestones before they’re ready.  They’re overloaded with activities and being introduced to technology and social media early on.  Communication is trending through text messaging, group chats and video games.  Family dinners are happening less frequently and when they do happen most family members are seen with tablets in front of them for entertainment or phones next to them in case it rings.  But how about turning to each other for entertainment to get a good belly laugh?  And what would happen if we put the phone away for a bit and return emails and missed calls a little later?

How about we let ourselves be present in the moment and let everything else just be for a little while?

Face to face interaction and conversations are diminishing.  We’re leading busier lives and trying to make it all happen.  But in the middle of this daily hustle, we’re losing connection with the people who are our most important priority.

Setting structure and time limits are so important.  Parents and children are spending less time learning and being aware of what’s happening day to day in each other’s lives while the rate of depression, self-harming behaviors, drug use and suicidal thoughts in adolescents is increasing.  Parents aren’t always “in the know” of what their children are going through in school and socially, not because they don’t care to but because there are so many other things they’re trying to balance.

Carving out a few minutes every day to communicate and check in emotionally with your children will go a long way. In the long run, it will make it more likely for your children to come to you not only when they’re experiencing obstacles and uncertainty, but also to share excitement.  It doesn’t always have to be so serious.  Create family traditions that work and keeps everyone looking forward to when that time approaches, whether it’s weekly or monthly.

The type of nurturing environment you provide for your child will also set the tone for how they respond and connect to you.

If you’d like to learn more on this topic, call 551-775-0575 and let’s get you started.