By Eugenia Rico Barrios

Clinical Psychologist Specialist in Clinical Psychology

To build a strong and affectionate relationship between parents and children, it is essential that it is based on mutual love and respect. Every family has its own parenting style, adapted to their particular needs, but it is crucial to remember that children are not an extension of their parents; they need their own space, independence, and autonomy. As parents, our mission is to guide them with clear boundaries and rules that provide security and promote their healthy development.

Here are some tips to encourage positive parenting and good family communication:

• Connect with your role as parents. Get to know how your children feel, what makes them comfortable and happy. Be involved in their daily life and be a constant support figure. Work together to establish agreements, guidelines, rules, and limits that are clear and consistent. It is important to maintain balance in all areas of family life.

• Stimulate the overall development of your children. Support their physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth at each stage of their lives. Strengthen emotional bonds with simple but meaningful activities, such as reading a story, cooking together, or singing songs.

• Praise their achievements and efforts. Celebrate both small and big accomplishments. Even if they don’t always do things perfectly, appreciate their initiative and willingness. Praise, whether through words like “keep it up” or gestures like a hug or smile, helps boost their confidence and sense of belonging.

• Recognize the effort, not just the result. Focus on the steps they take toward their goals, not just the final outcome. For example, if the goal is to get to school on time, celebrate each step: getting up, taking a shower, brushing their teeth, and dressing. Each small step is key to achieving the goal.

• Encourage expressiveness. Tell them daily how much you love them and how valuable they are, recognizing their opinions and interests. Encourage them to express themselves freely, without fear of judgment.

• Dedicate quality time to them. Set aside a special moment every day for your child, where you can play or talk without distractions. This dedicated time, such as chatting after dinner about their day at school, strengthens your relationship and allows for a deeper connection.

• Listen to them attentively. Pay attention to what your children have to say. This not only helps you understand their feelings and thoughts but also gives them security to express themselves, even in moments of anger or frustration.

• Maintain an open dialogue between parents. Establish predictable routines and schedules for the household. This helps create an organized environment and reduces stress, minimizing conflicts and tantrums. Household rules should be clear and explained, and boundaries should provide security. Avoid unnecessary punishments and threats, and instead, explain the consequences in a constructive manner.

• Teach about consequences. Help your children understand that every action has a consequence. This is part of learning and growing. If they have doubts or feel overwhelmed, do not hesitate to seek professional advice. Parenting is a journey full of challenges and lessons, and it’s normal to need support along the way.

Open communication and love are the foundation for successful parenting and a strong family relationship. With these principles in mind, you can raise your children in an environment filled with support and understanding.

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