Source: Heather Winn for Release: 02/28/16

Source: Heather Winn For Release: 02/28/16

Extension Educator, FCS/4-H & CED

Cherokee County

918-456-6163

Connecting with your Child

Young children have a lot to learn about what “good behavior” is. Very often, the poor behavior choices that children make come from their lack of knowing a better choice. When your child makes a mistake, he or she needs you to teach him what to do instead. You will be more successful in teaching good behavior choices if you have a strong and loving relationship with your child. Consider these suggestions for ways to strengthen your relationship with your child.

Find time to play together. Let your child choose what to do together and be excited about it! Talk with your child about something she is interested in. There are lots of cheap, fun games and activities to do together like go on a picnic, play at a park, or play a board game. No money needed!

Ask your child to tell you about what he is doing or think and then just listen. When you talk and listen, be sure to: get on your child’s level physically, avoid distractions (like your cell phone), maintain eye contact, and use a gentle tone of voice. Respond to your child in a way that lets him know you were listening. For example, “It sound like you are really excited about playing with your friend!” Be careful not to criticize or judge.

Tell your child how happy you are to see her. Let your child know every day that you love him or her. Showing affection often in the way your child most likes will build a wonderful relationship.

These tips will help your relationship grow strong by building trust, good will, and positive feelings. It’s important to be realistic, though. Even in strong relationship, children will do thing their parents don’t want them to do. But because your child has learned to trust you, you will be more effective in teaching him or her better ways to behave.

For more information or to schedule an educational program locally about financial management, nutrition, health & wellness, parenting education, OHCE contact Heather Winn, at the OSU Cooperative Extension Service in Cherokee County by phone at 918-456-6163 or e-mail at .

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