Connection is at the Heart of Every Relationship

Connection is at the Heart of Every Relationship

The turkey has been ordered, the soup has been planned, the shopping list has been prepped and the holiday cocktail has been chosen!  Bring on Thanksgiving!  

I usually focus on the word ‘gratitude’ during the Thanksgiving season, but this year I am feeling ‘connection’ as my word for the holiday.  

At the heart of every relationship is connection.  Connection is the energy that draws people together.  It establishes a bond and trust, a foundation that relationships are built upon.  

It’s important to remember that connecting happens in both good and difficult times.  When a friend is going through a tough time, we connect and support them.  But so often, when our kids are having a tough time, we disconnect and expect them to work out big feelings alone. 

Why is connection different with our adult friends than it is with our children?

We all love those magical moments with our kids when we’re bonding and making lifelong memories!  Holidays, family vacations, special events, cuddly time at home...all the warm and fuzzies, yes?

But, what about the not-so-warm and fuzzy moments of parenting?  Getting everyone out the door for school, screen time battles, sibling shenanigans, transition time meltdowns, power struggles, enter your daily parenting struggle here _______ . 

These moments can push us to our limits.  We may find ourselves overwhelmed and frustrated rather than ready to dig deep and connect with our kids.  Surprisingly, these are the moments when our children need us the most!  Kids need the help of parents and caregivers to navigate their big feelings.

Research has shown when we connect with our children on an emotional level, we actually shape the structure and function of their brains.  

When we connect with our children, it helps further brain development, models problem-solving strategies, establishes trust and so much more.

If you’re looking for support to connect with your kids — even during those difficult parenting moments — I have you covered!  I have created a quick read e-booklet with 10 tips to help you connect with your child, even during those tough moments.  You can download your e-booklet here.  

Looking for a quick reference sheet to print out?  Click here for the ‘refrigerator sheet.’

Where does connection come easily for you?  Where do you feel you could focus some more attention?  ​

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