All parents should have some sort of badge or item of recognition that allows them to stand out in a crowd. Parents have one of the most difficult jobs. Think about.

• Parents work 24 hour shifts
• No PTO
• No breaks
• No vacation time
• No sick leave
• No increase in pay

Below are 3 ways that parents can create better relationships with their child.

1. Become involved in your child’s life. You can do this by:

• Joining their school PTA
• Signing up to be a coach for their team
• Having a date night with them
• Asking them about their day
• Emailing their teachers and community supporters
• Becoming friends with them on Facebook and other social media

2. Observe your child’s behavior. When you notice a positive or negative change, be the first to ask (why?)…

Ask questions each and every day. (Questions mean that you care)

• Anything crazy happen today? I really want to hear a 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?

Be creative when asking questions, it will demonstrate to your child that you are truly involved. When kids get the same questions (as those listed below) they learn to anticipate and to answer the same way.

Below are some of the questions that often do not create involvement and connection with your child:

• Did you have a good day?
• How was your day?
• Was school good today?

3. Be your child’s role model.

No one should know your child better than you. Remember that there are others ready to provide your child with guidance and act as a role model.Some are positive and others are negative but none will look out for your child as you would.

There are so many ways to create connection and involvement in your child’s life. Learn to pay attention to the activities that your child is involved in while searching for opportunities to connect. The great thing about following your child’s footsteps is that you are joining them in any activity in which they are already interested in. It’s okay if you are not right away knowledgeable of the activity or sport. Utilize the internet or other parents for support. Ask questions about the activity so that your child can come to you for support. In addition, you can be their median to resources versus your child bypassing you.

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 mentor (not the other way around).
• Ask as many questions as you can (or at least until your child tells you to stop).