As parents and caregivers, we play a significant role in the development of our children’s emotional and psychological foundations. Simple actions, a supportive presence, and adjustments in how we communicate can help nurture healthy relationships, build deeper connections, and foster resilience.

Here are seven valuable insights I have come upon in my research, my work with children, teens, and families, and my own experiences that can change the way we engage with our children and teens:

This first learning comes from the brilliant writer Toni Morrison. She said:

“When a child walks in the room, your child or anybody else’s child, do your eyes light up? That’s what they’re looking for.”

What a simple act that can have a remarkable impact on a child. So often, we can be quick to judge or to get to the “doing” that we don’t let them know we are glad to see them. Having your face light up has the power to convey warmth, love, and happiness without a need for words. This simple act allows your face to reflect what’s in your heart. It provides them with validation and security and, ultimately, allows them to feel seen.

To this day, my face still lights up whenever I am reunited with my three teens. It can make more of a difference than we know.

Hugs nurture our sense of belonging, security, and trust. They have the ability to calm the nervous system and let our loved ones know they have a safe place to land.

The reality is we may not know just what our child needs to fill their emotional bucket.........

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