As parents, it can be easy to over-emphasize and over-focus on our children’s successes and achievements. Sometimes this can leave our children feeling unseen, or only seen for their productivity and outcomes. Our children are human beings, not accomplishments or achievements. It is crucial that we recognize who they are.
It is important that we check in with ourselves and ask some helpful questions:
* As a parent, do I truly see my child(ren) for who they are, rather than what they do?
* Am I able to be present with and for them?
* How am I taking care of myself?
Bringing a shift to the way in which we engage with our children has the potential to make a difference in our connection with them. It starts by taking good care of ourselves so that our energy tank is full, and thus, can pay more attention to how we show up for our children.
Try to focus on being more present with your kids, putting any and all distractions aside as often as you can. This helps to create an opportunity for our kids to feel like they matter—allowing them to feel seen and heard. Focus on who they are and what they are sharing rather than what they did and the outcome. When we begin to shift this focus, we see so much more in our children and are able to honor them as they are!
Make a list of all the beautifully unique qualities you see in your child. What makes your child unique and special? These are just a few simple tips to bring more awareness to your own parenting practices that prompt us to attend to who are children are, rather than what our children do.
For assistance with this or anything else parenting, please reach out to me: sue@suedecaro.com
