Share
Quality Connection With Our Children
The good news is – meaningful connection with our children is completely within our reach. Despite the never-ending rush of our busy lives, daily moments of true connection are crucial – and experts say it is quality, not quantity, that is the important thing. A loving glance, a soft touch, a cuddle and a kiss –all these warm little moments support a child’s well-being, and create those feelings of being important, and being truly loved. Every little bit of quality time makes a positive impact, according to Audrey Rider, early child field specialist.[1]
So take note - connection can be just a few daily moments together, but it is the parents’ sincere attention that makes the child feel valued and loved. That’s the view of social worker Alisa Jaffe Holleron. In her piece about Connection, she says “A little goes a long way – it helps build ground under their feet”. Her advice is to laugh and be silly, tell your child you love them, try and have a daily connect time – keep it simple and connect with your child in ways that make sense for your lifestyle and relationship.[2]
And that daily quality playtime builds “lasting bonds”, according to Anderson –McNamee and Bailey, - “When your baby starts to smile and you smile back, you are engaging in play. Play is directed by the child and the rewards come from within the child.” [3] We are told that, “From those early interactions, children develop a vision of the world, and gain a sense of their place in it.”[4]
For me, it is my intention in writing my books and making my “kisses” and “cuddles”, to provide parents with tools to make those special moments of connection more accessible. Reading is a great way to connect and to stimulate the imagination, and the hunt for kisses and cuddles can provide lots of opportunities for fun and closeness.
I wish every parent the joy of connection with their child, and I wish for the world more loving and connected moments.
[1] Audrey Rider, “Spending Time With Your Child When Life Is Busy!”,
[3] Anderson-McNamee, Jona K., and Sandra J. Bailey. "The importance of play in early childhood development." Montana State University Extention (2010): 1-4., quote at p.1.
[4] Anderson-McNamee, Jona K., and Sandra J. Bailey, p.3.