Relationships can be a source of stress, sadness, anger, and frustration. Children observe how their parents and adults around them create relationships. If you struggle with knowing what you would like in a relationship, how will your children know what they want? What if you could model for you children relationship values by making your relationship with yourself and your kids a model that will support them in their connections with others?
What if you could have some clues about how to relate to yourself, your kids and those around you with more ease that will invite those relationships that honor who you be? See if these don't help you be more aware of how to end your relationship madness.
What if you could have some clues about how to relate to yourself, your kids and those around you with more ease that will invite those relationships that honor who you be? See if these don't help you be more aware of how to end your relationship madness.
Not all kids (or anyone for that matter) require the same type of attention, nor do they all feel supported and loved in the same way. Perhaps you have heard of the 5 Love Languages. There is value in asking some questions and observing these expressions of love for yourself as well as your child.
Here's a quick review with some questions you can ask to get you started:
Words of Affirmation: Do I sense that I am being more cared for and loved when someone praises me, compliments me, or affirms me? Do I crave that verbal acknowledgment? Do I notice that my child is more verbal, responds to words of appreciation, endearment, encouragement and positive guidance?
Physical Touch: Do I long to be touched, held, patted on the shoulder, and hugged to feel connected and cared for? Does my child lighten up when I hold, kiss, hug, or even sit next to my child?
Acts of Service: Do I sense being more cared for and nurtured when others do things for me? Do I receive joy doing acts of service for others? Does my child ask me to do things for them as a way of feeling cared for? When I do things for my child, do I see them light up?
Gifts: When I receive meaningful gifts, do I sense being more loved and cared for? Does the act of receiving a gift stay with me long after the time that the gift was given? Do I recall special gifts that have been given to me? Do I enjoy giving thoughtful gifts to others? Does my child enjoy receiving even the smallest gift, feeling loved and cared for? Does my child enjoy giving gifts, even the smallest, as a source of joy?
Quality Time: Do I sense being more nurtured when others are present with me and focusing their attention on what I am doing or saying? Do I feel more connected to others when I am focused on them? Does my child ask for me to be with them, to do things together and enjoys chatting with me? Does my child respond to being with me and having my attention?
Knowing how you and your child express your love and caring can be key in creating more ease in your relationship. For ideas on how to apply these element tune into the podcast- End Relationship Madness
More Resources
For more tips on deepening your relationships listen to my podcast - 5 Keys to Deepen Family Relationships. Here I share with you vital elements that every relationship needs to thrive.
Below is a replay of End Relationship Madness on the Be You Parenting Radio Show.