Families For Life | Positive Attention and Your Child-Young Children
Why is positive attention important?
The purpose of providing positive attention is to show that you care. When your child knows you are there for them, they are more likely to share issues and challenges they are facing with you.
Setting aside time to spend together as a family (e.g. having regular family meals)
Spending time to discover and nurture their interests and strengths
Devote time to do activities that they enjoy
Regardless of the activity, it will help to build memories and strengthen your parent-child bond
Encourage them to explore their interests and strengths as this helps build their self-esteem and independence
For younger children who enjoy drawing and colouring, consider bringing them to parks or the beach to create art pieces together
Giving them your undivided attention when spending time together
Put aside your devices when engaging in activities with your child or when having conversations with them
This helps you to be fully present with them and role model what it means to be fully present for others
Setting aside time to regularly listen to them and have conversations with them
Show them you are there for them and want to understand more about their thoughts and feelings, as well as what they are going through, especially when they need support, care, or help
This is important as it may not always be obvious when your child has something on their mind
Contributed by: Parenting for Wellness
