Family matters.  It’s simple, the key is to develop a positive relationship with your children. Start early, this will BE  one of their greatest protective factors in life. There are no secret ingredients, no gimmicks, no quick fixes. It’s about relationships.

I’m not talking about being your child’s best friend, although friendship can be part of it. I’m talking about THAT relationship that will keep your kids coming back to you for guidance no matter what. Even in the teen years when friends are so important to them.

Just like you learned strategies to deal with temper tantrums, there are actions that can help you build healthy relationships. The Search Institute® has released Family Assets to help guide you.

And why should you care about family assets?

Let me share with you some of the many benefits and protective factors to a positive relationship. Healthy relationships help families talk more, show affection and support each other.  Kids in these families thrive, are more socially competent and do better in school. Kids are healthier and better able to regulate emotions and behaviour.

The good news is that you are already building assets without even realizing it! I know I was.  And as your child grows and enters school there are many ways to keep building that nurturing relationship.

Here are only a few examples to help:

• Show that you care. Even a note in a lunch box can brighten a day.
• Spend time together. Eat at least one meal a day together.
• Talk together every day about everyday things. Ask questions like “What were the high and low points of your day?”
• Talk about interests. Ask your kids to teach you, even if it’s not your favorite thing to do.
• Focus on your relationships. Sometimes you will have to deal with problems and your relationship is what’s going to get you through these challenging times.

After reviewing the family assets, it was nice to know I was on the right track. Having a nurturing relationship is more than something nice to do. It’s going to shape the lives of my children.

Share how you build a good relationship with your kids?

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For parenting information or to speak with a Public Health Nurse (every Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) simply dial 311 or 905-825-6000.