11 Ways to Connect With Your Child On Their Level

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Parenting doesn’t come with a manual, and it’s not just about the simple kind of) stiff like keeping them from poking their hands into the electrical sockets, but also the trickier stuff like building lasting bonds that will help them feel safe and secure with you.

Bonding with our kids can feel pretty natural, but sometimes, especially as they go through different stages and ages, it can get harder. If you are going through such a period right now, here are some things that may help you connect with your kids on their level:

1. Dive Into Their Digital World

If your child is constantly glued to a screen, then maybe you could join in with the instead of trying to fight it, at least now and again. Play video games together, watch their favorite YouTube channels, or even ask them to teach you how to use that new-fangled app everyone’s talking about. It shows you respect their interests and, who knows, you might even get the hang of it and start sending GIFs like a pro! And, hey, you can have some fun showing them the games you used to play – minesweeper or solitaire, anyone?

2. Get Your Hands Dirty

Whether it’s building a model volcano, planting a garden, or baking a monstrous cake, getting your hands dirty together can be a blast. These activities are not just fun; they’re also fantastic opportunities to teach your kids valuable skills, from the science of baking to the art of patience. Plus, nothing bonds people quite like shared success… or a spectacular mess!

3. Revisit Your Childhood Favorites

Sharing a piece of your own childhood can be a magical experience. Dust off those old comic books, set up the classic video games, or binge-watch the cartoons from your own younger years. It’s a beautiful way to show them a part of who you were at their age and share a laugh or two at how hairstyles have changed.

4. Craft a Story Together

Kids have an amazing capacity for creativity. Harness that by starting a story and letting them finish it. Or better yet, create an entire story together! Write it down, draw pictures, or act it out. This not only boosts their creative and verbal skills but also lets them take the lead in the play, giving them a sense of control and partnership.

5. Follow Their Lead

Ever noticed how kids can play the same game over and over and over? Next time, instead of suggesting something new, ask if you can join in their game. Play by their rules and let them direct the play. It might be the seventeenth tea party this week, but it’s a chance to see what they come up with and get a glimpse into how they see the world.

6. Go on Mini Adventures

You don’t need a plane ticket to go on an adventure. Explore the local park like it’s a jungle or turn a trip to the grocery store into a treasure hunt. This not only makes everyday activities exciting but also teaches your child how to find joy in the little things. Plus, you get to be explorers together, and who doesn’t want that?

7. Schedule Regular Date Nights

Set aside a regular time for just the two of you—no siblings allowed. Whether it’s a weekly breakfast date before school or a monthly movie night, having special time together can help deepen your bond and give you both something to look forward to.

8. Listen Like You Mean It

Sometimes, connecting with your child means just listening…like, really listening. Sit down, ask them about their day, and then just let them talk. No interruptions, no rushing to the next activity. You’d be surprised how much kids will share when they feel truly heard.

9. Create a Shared Hobby

Find a hobby that both you and your child can enjoy and do together regularly. Whether it’s collecting stamps, building model airplanes, or birdwatching, shared hobbies provide common ground and ongoing opportunities for bonding.

10. Interactive Reading Sessions

Instead of just reading to your child (you do read to them, right?) try to have fun with it and make it as interactive as possible. Ask them where they think the plot ongoing or talk about which characters they like and dislike, for example, and you will get to know them better, while also making them feel important and listened to.

11. Participate in Their Learning

It’s always nice to show your kids you care about their education by getting involved in their projects. Obviously, you should never do tier homework for them or anything but asking them what they’re working on and giving tips if they get stuck can mean a lot.

Connecting with your child on their level is not always easy, but it is so worthwhile, so give it a whirl!

*This article is based on personal suggestions and/or experiences and is for informational purposes only. This should not be used as professional advice. Please consult a professional where applicable.