Write an article based on this "Get on their level. Emphasize the importance of family time. Dedicate one-on-one time for each child. Stay in touch with academics, friendships, and extracurriculars. Kid around."
You can enrich the relationship you have with your child by connecting with them in an age-appropriate way. Teach, work on projects, and play on a level that your child is familiar with. This helps them bond with you and makes you seem more approachable. If you have a toddler, get on the floor and build a city out of blocks. If you have older adolescents or teens, join in on a round of video games. You are more likely to spark conversation during these types of activities than by trying to get them talking at the dinner table. While your children need to know that you acknowledge and respect their individuality, it also counts when you uplift the family as a unit. Make family time a regular and special part of your routine. Eat meals together most nights of the week, and have everyone share their peaks and pits (i.e. best and worst moments) of the day. Go to sporting events, movies, or community gatherings together. Spending time together as a unit is essential. You should also set aside time to focus on each individual child. Prioritizing one-on-one time helps you form a connection with each child. Plus, it also helps you focus on each child's individual strengths and talents. Find a shared hobby to engage in with each of your children. Maybe you will teach one kid how to fish on weekends. Or, work with another on perfecting a piano performance. Free up part of your weekly schedule to build a special relationship with each child. Parents who have good relationships with their children are involved in their lives. You can't expect to have a strong bond with your children if you simply say "good morning" and "good night" each day. It's understandable that you're busy juggling work and other responsibilities, but you should also make an effort to get to know your kids and learn about what's happening in their lives. If you have some free time, offer to volunteer at school, coach a softball game, or meet with your children's teachers regularly to stay updated on their academic performance. Sit down with them as they do homework. Help them practice their lines for the school play. Invite your kids' friends over so you know what kind of influences they are around. Let your kids know that things don't always have to be so serious between you. Of course, you want them to respect your authority, but you also want to laugh with them. A sense of fun can liven up their lives and build fond memories. Make crazy faces or noises to supplement mealtimes or playtime with smaller children. Act silly with adolescents by pulling pranks or telling jokes.