What is an emotional connection? A connection with anyone that is strong and lasting. This is created and developed in many ways. Spending quality time with your child, creating positive emotional experiences, is a great way to nurture that connection.
Sometimes it is extra special to have a planned event. Knowing that this event will occur not only deepens the connection but also increases a child’s sense of control over their world. When things are predictable a child can develop a stronger sense of trust.
A family I work with shared with me a terrific ritual they have. This is a family with 3 children. On each child’s birthday, Dad takes the child for a father-child hike. After the hike the entire family gets together for a birthday breakfast. What a wonderful way for the entire family to celebrate, get outdoor time, have a family ritual and build in some daddy-child time.
What do you already do that is a family ritual? Can you think of anything you could build in as a family ritual that is fun, predictable and focused on creating a positive experience? Think simple, yet beyond traditional celebration routines like the family in the example above. It doesn’t need to cost anything other than your time.