Author: Diana Bigham, LMFT-S
No matter how much we try as parents, some days it is hard to feel appreciated. However, there are easy ways to increase the appreciation your family has for you.
Here are 3 simple things that will bring a smile to your kids’ faces when they think of you:
- Spend and enjoy quality time with your kids in ways that are meaningful to them and let loose. They need to know you enjoy being with them without them having to earn it.
- Listen to them carefully when they talk and don’t interrupt or cut them off. Focus on the connection before trying to give advice. Active listening skills is a super power when it comes to children feeling connected with their parents.
- Be their cheerleader. Celebrate their small victories when they make progress in even the littlest things. Tell them what characteristics you see and appreciate in them, even when they don’t succeed, like “Great job trying new things like signing up for the book challenge, even if reading has been difficult for you. I love how you continue to learn and stretch yourself, even in areas that don’t always come easy.”
Parenting is both a sacrificial and rewarding role, yet parents don’t always feel appreciated and risk emotionally burning out.
Reflection: What would have made it easier for you to respect your own parents while growing up?