Teachers and parents know that crafting has long been a great way to bond with children. It’s a great way to stimulate all five senses and create a positive, fun and relaxing environment that can be used to build trust, respect and love.
Make a connection – If you are having trouble connecting with your child, try crafting together. Find a fun craft that you know your child will enjoy and block out some special time for it. Crafting together is an easy way to get one-on-one time with your child and find out what he or she is thinking and feeling.
Give emotional support – As you craft together, your child will probably be more willing to open up and talk to you. If there is something bothering your child and he or she opens up and shares the problem with you during your craft time, be sure to give lots of emotional support. Offer advice, but, more importantly, provide unconditional love.
Keep it light and fun – If you craft with your child specifically for the purpose of building your relationship, keep it fun. Try not to obsess about how your child is holding a paint brush or gluing on a bead. It’s not about the craft project. It’s about your child’s self-esteem and emotional well-being.
Encourage and stay interested – Many adults suffer from low self-esteem as a direct result of their parents’ negative attitude towards them during childhood. As you craft with your children, be interested in what they are doing. Kids love to share their artwork. Be encouraging and pay positive comments to your children about their crafts. By doing so you will be showing them that you are interested in them as unique individuals.
