Relationship of trust: How to Become a Parent Your Kids Want to Talk to

When a child turns to you for support, advice or help, it’s important not to push them away. Trust between parents and children is not just a goal, but also the basis for healthy and harmonious development of the child. We all want to be the kind of parents that children can come to at any time, no matter the problem, and feel heard and understood. But how do you become such a parent? How do you build a relationship where your children are confident in your support and can openly share their experiences?



Ecology of life: Why is trust so important in relationships with children?
Trust is the foundation of any strong and healthy relationship, and family relationships are no exception. It’s important that children feel that their emotions, experiences, and thoughts are important, not just perceived as “inferior” or “undesirable.” Trusting relationships help children develop confidence in themselves and their abilities, and teach them to build healthy connections in the future, both in their personal lives and in the professional sphere.

When relationships with children are based on trust, they become open, honest and safe. The child, knowing that he will be supported, can not only calmly share problems, but also learn to make important life decisions based on his own experience. This foundation helps the child become an emotionally mature and self-confident person, ready for difficult situations.

How to create a trusting relationship with children?

1. Be attentive listeners.
One of the most important aspects of a trusting relationship is the ability to listen. When a child asks you a question or shares his or her experiences, it’s important not just to listen to him or her, but to be fully focused on the conversation. Turn off your phone, stop doing other things and put off important questions. Show your child that he is the center of your attention.

Children often don’t look for specific solutions, they just want to be heard. Excessive haste in trying to solve a problem or give advice can be perceived as ignoring the child’s feelings. It is best to give the child space to express his thoughts and experiences, asking open questions and allowing him to come to conclusions.

2. Respect the emotions of children
Children can experience a variety of emotions, from joy to deep anxiety or disappointment. When you see what your child is going through, it’s important not to discount their feelings with phrases like “don’t worry” or “everything will be fine.” Your child’s emotions are real to him or her and should be recognized as such.

Acknowledging your feelings helps your child not feel lonely or undervalued. Even if you think your child’s problem doesn’t matter much, it’s important to show empathy and make it clear that their experiences are important to you. This will create an atmosphere of safety and trust in which the child is ready to open up.

3. Be honest and open.
Trust is built on honesty. It is important to remember that children also need to explain the world around them, be open and sincere. Of course, this doesn’t mean sharing information with children, especially when it comes to complex or disturbing topics, but it’s important to be honest and not hide your truth behind the guise of “adulthood.”

Children are very sensitive to falsehood and inconsistencies. If they feel that you are withholding important information from them or not telling the truth, it can undermine trust and lead to distance. Being open about your emotions, experiences, and even weaknesses is a way to demonstrate to your child that everyone has the right to make mistakes, and that honesty is always more important than trying to “prove perfect.” This will help children feel more confident in their own mistakes and experiences.

4. Create time together
Sharing moments where you spend time with your child without distractions also helps build trust. It can be just a lunch together, a walk or a game where there is no pressure and you can really be there for each other. In such moments, it is important to be sincere, open and, importantly, listen to the needs of the child.

In addition, time spent together is a great reason to talk. Without pressure or grievances, in informal meetings, children often open up and share what worries them. This creates an atmosphere of trust and helps build a deeper connection between you.

5. Set clear boundaries and consequences
Trust does not mean that there are no rules. Instead, children need structure and understanding that their actions have consequences. It is important to set clear and clear boundaries, explaining why it is important to follow certain rules. It shouldn’t be a punishment, but rather a way to help your child understand that their behavior is affecting others, including you.

When a child sees that you are consistent in your demands, but respect their feelings and personal space, it builds trust and helps build a sense of security. In such relationships, the child feels that he can trust you not only in moments of happiness, but also in moments of mistakes.

Conclusion

Trusting children is not just a goal, but a path that takes time, effort and awareness. They are built on attention, respect and honesty. If the child feels loved and appreciated, that his feelings are accepted and respected, he will be ready to open up and discuss any issues, not be afraid to seek support and be confident in his place in this world. Be the kind of parent your children want to talk to, and let those conversations be always full of understanding and love.