Reconnect with Your Child

Being a parent isn't easy. Work and household chores can drive a divide between a well-meaning mom or dad and their child. Yet, there is always hope. You can reconnect with your child by slowing down and taking a few key steps. Here are six that can get you back on the road to family bliss.

1- Set a play date. Take the time to unwind and enjoy your child's unique personality by setting a play date. Go to a pottery making store and create special plates. Attend a movie. Throw dice on a monopoly board. Use this time to let loose and remember how much you truly love (and like) each other.

2- Go for a long ride. Reconnect with your child by going for a long ride. See a part of town you both want to explore and talk about the different buildings and unique people. Stop somewhere for a bite to eat and chat. Use your new environment to discuss things you normally would feel tension around such as school or the opposite sex.

3- Volunteer at a shelter. Create a shared interest by volunteering at a shelter with your child. The place you choose can cater to animals or humans. Just be sure your son or daughter has total buy-in. By working side by side for a common cause, you build good will with each other and also see each other in a different light.

4- Eat dinner together regularly. You've probably have heard that parents who eat dinner with their children regularly produce smarter, happier offspring. This statement is true because the breaking of bread usually opens the door to a lot of great discussion and much needed group time. Reconnect with your child by integrating this habit into your home. Sit down and dine with your son or daughter at least five days a week and find out the details of his/her life.

5- Openly discuss your problems. As an adult, you may want to shield your child from any household problems. Yet, this type of mentality really doesn't help. When you pretend all is well when circumstances say the opposite, your child may start to think you're either goofy or unable to face the truth. So, be honest. Have open discussions about life - good and bad - with your child so you can develop the kind of communication that bonds you together and lasts a lifetime.

These five things will help you reconnect with your child. Use them and create a relationship with your son or daughter that you can be proud of.