Communicating with our children can be challenging–and not just for single parents either. As our lives get so full with responsibilities and activities, and our children grow and change, it can be tough to stay connected. Life can be hectic and having unlimited time to sit down and catch up just might not be happening. Focusing on keeping some shared interests alive can be one way that a single parent can stay connected with his or her children.
If you are a non-custodial parent or do not get to see your children on a regular basis, you know how challenging it can be to stay connected. If you have a shared interest or two (fishing, movies, a certain author, arts and crafts, etc.) that you can focus on, you will at least maintain a jumping-off place from which to start a conversation. Of course, interests and activities change for most of us over time–but finding ways to stay connected with your kids when you don’t have unlimited time can make nurturing those shared interests important.
Focusing on shared interests is a good skill for just about any relationship–it is a good way to make acquaintances at a networking event or get to know co-workers, it works in the dating world too. It can seem so basic and obvious, however, that we don’t think of it as part of our single parenting tool box. Even if you only have one thing that you feel like you have in common with your child–that can be something to cherish and protect. Maybe you both love baking or going for ice cream? Watching football or professional ice skating? Whatever it is–focus on those shared interests in order to stay connected when the parent-child road gets bumpy, and you can make the most of limited time and opportunities to bond and connect.
Also: Bonding with Your Daughter–Cooking
Bonding is an On-going Process
Tips for Single Parents to Build a Good Parent-Child Relationship