Parenting

FIVE WAYS TO MAKE EVERY CHILD FEEL SPECIAL

Children love attention especially from their parents. Study shows that children perform better in schools, feel happier and complete if they spend quality time with their parents.

Finding ways to make every child feel special isn’t always easy. Use these five tips to engage with your children and make each of them feel special today and everyday.

1. PUT AWAY YOUR CELL PHONE.

When your child gets home from school or an extracurricular activity, chances are he/she will want to share their experiences with you. If you're caught up in emailing, texting or talking on the phone, you may lose your window of opportunity to engage with your child. When they first walk through the door, put away your cell phone and sit down with them for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Look at him/her in the eye, ask questions and really engage with him/her as you discuss their day.

2. PLAN PARENT-CHILD DATES.

At least once a month, set aside a day to bond with your child. If you have several kids, make sure they each get their own special days. The amount of time you set aside depends on the child and the activities you plan, but make sure to involve your child in the planning process. If one of your children is a history or art buff, plan a trip to your local museum. If you're the parent of a sports fanatic, hit the batting cages together. If your child loves to bake, spend the day in the kitchen or at a cooking class. The point is to engage with your child while supporting and sharing her interests.

3. CELEBRATE SPECIAL ANNIVERSARIES.

Most kids feel special on their birthdays, but remembering and commemorating other landmark occasions will help him/her build a history of personal traditions. These special anniversaries could be as simple as a half-birthday celebration exactly six months after his/her birthday, or they could be more significant, like the anniversary of their recovery from a major injury or illness. These celebrations don't need to be large; just a card or a bouquet of flowers is all it takes to say, "I love you and I remembered."

4. ASK FOR HELP.

Kids love knowing that their presence and input is important. Ask your children to help plan special events or to provide input on major family purchases and decisions. Your children will feel special knowing you love and respect their opinions, and this will allow their confidence to grow.

5. DON'T FORGET THE HUGS

Physical bonding between parents and children carries importance throughout life. Create routines that involve hugging, kissing and hair tousling. For instance, give a hug and kiss every morning before your child leaves for school, and then again before he/she goes to bed at night. Pat them on the back when they get home for the day, and tousle their hair or rub their shoulder every time you walk past. The more they know you're there for them physically and emotionally, the more secure and special they'll feel.