I have been doing 'talk and cuddle' at bedtime with my youngest daughter, May, for about two years now. It's become a safe time when she can talk to me about her day and open up about her worries and concerns. I can honestly say, out of all of my children, my bond with her is the strongest and this daily activity has helped lay the foundations.

Over the years, I have learned that most people know that having a positive and rich relationship with their children creates an environment in which they can develop and grow. They know that these relationships are based on building trust, spending quality time and being present in the here and now, the moment. Every parent will agree with this and will tell you that this is aim, but how many are taking the steps to build these relationships that are children are desperately in need of? It's not the lack of knowledge that's holding them back, but rather the lack of action. To be honest, it took me quite a while to learn this lesson too.

Here are 3 actionable steps you can take to fix it TODAY:

1. Live the moment.

Sometimes, you may be physically present, but your mind is elsewhere. When this is the case, you tend to rush potential opportunities to bond and connect with your child. STOP! your child isn't a task on your to-do list. Instead, learn to make every interaction a chance to connect. It could be while giving them a bath or feeding them. Ask them questions about their day or tell them about yours. learn to live in the moment with your child because you don't get these times back.

2. Put the phone away.

'Daddy! You're always on your phone." These kinds of statements are nothing but your child crying out for your attention. When around your child, nothing shows lack of interest or value in them than being glued to your phone. Studies show that phone usage interferes with your sense of connection to the other person, the feelings of closeness experienced, and the quality of the conversation. So, put the phone down and show your child that you value them.

3. Play with your child.

By playing with your child, you are partaking in their favorite activity. This is your child's way of learning, trying out different ideas and understanding the world around them, and above all, it is fun! Come down to their level and create memories with your child. Paying attention to this now means you build the relationship and bond that makes it possible for them to partake in your favorite activities one day.

Parenting can be very challenging but overcoming failure is a crucial part of succeeding, moving forward, and making actionable progress.

But don't worry: we've all been there.

3 Steps To Strengthen Parent-Child Bond

I have been doing 'talk and cuddle' at bedtime with my youngest daughter, May, for about t

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