This morning, my son Alexander and I went over to Northwest Pediatrics for his flu shot. I had a sad yet, incredible experience reflecting on parenting.

I found myself paying more attention to my phone then to my son. I’m not sure if it’s just my generation, but I tend to find myself distracted by my iPhone, work or some random thing. As I sat in front of my son, it really took him to get me to notice the huge mistake I was making. My son, Alex, gave a little cry. He is only 7 months-old, so a bit too early for words.

He cried out for attention. Sort of like “HEY DAD WHAT ABOUT ME. CAN YOU PAY ME SOME ATTENTION PLEASE”

I put my phone down and spent the remainder of the time playing with Alex as we waited to be called in.

If you have some time today, 2 minutes and 23 seconds to be exact. Take a listen to my reflection in parenting!

A few months ago, I wrote an article focused on supporting parents grow closer to their child while empowering their platform as a parent. Below are 5 of the 10 ways that parents can support their anxious or angry kid. The strategies listed below truly speak to parents seeking support in connecting with their child, understanding why their child is distant, anxious, or upset. To read the full article follow the link: 10 awesome ways to rock it as a parent

1. Dive into your child’s activities. Ideas include:

• Joining their school PTA
• Signing up to be a coach for their team
• Having a date night with them
• Asking them about their day each and every day
• Connect with their teachers or professionals who support them (ie. coaches, trainers, mentors…)
• Follow them on social media. “If they let you lol”

2. Now that you involved in your child’s life. Take time observe their behaviors and gain understanding on how they are doing in life.

Below are a few questions that can aid in connecting with your child:

• Anything crazy happen to day? I really want to hear an great story.
• What was the best part of your day?
• What was the worst part of your day?
• If you could tell me one thing that really made your day awesome, what would it be?

3. Kids listen to role models. Be your child’s role model.

As a kid, I think I was pretty much like the rest in the aspect of having role models. I would look up to professional athletes like Derek Jeter from the Yankees. These guys in so many ways paved my life. I think it is important for parents to strive to in some form or fashion be their child’s role model. Doing so will strengthen the connection and aid your child in life.

Below are a few strategies to get you started in becoming your child’s role model:

• Become a coach or supportive resource for them on the field or at home by increasing your knowledge and involvement.
• Create connections with mentors that support your child.
• Connect your child with the mentors.
• Ask as many questions as you can (or at least until your child tells you to stop).

4. Be a fun parent.

This is definitely my favorite. I am at heart fun. I love to play and chase my kids around. It is something that bonds, connects and overall strengthens our relationship.