A child’s brain develops rapidly between birth and the age of five. In fact, little brains develop more in the first five years of life than they will at any other time. This pivotal phase is a critical time for physical and mental growth. It’s also a time when children first establish bonds with their closest caregivers. Through warm, supportive relationships, children learn how to relate to others. Build a strong relationship with your preschooler. To help your child build, maintain, and strengthen their relationships with others, remember to include these essential elements in your everyday interactions:
Encourage Verbal Communication
“Today I built a tall tower, and then I made muffins in the class kitchen, and then we went outside, and I played with Sarah at the water table, and then…” Every parent knows how much a child wants to use their words to share their experiences. Warm and loving verbal communication will rapidly strengthen the relationship between you and your child. When parents ask children about their feelings, it allows them space to express themselves. Modeling healthy communication will help little ones improve their social-emotional skills and improve their relationship with you, their family members, their teachers, and their friends.
Seek Quality Time
Your child’s relationship with you is absolutely shaped by the quality time and fun activities you do together. Simple outings like going to the park or to the zoo, playing a game in the backyard, making art together, or going out to eat show your child that you are excited to spend time with them. When it comes to time, seek quality over quantity. Special moments you spend together will create memories that will last a lifetime.
Remember Physical Touch
Before infants can talk, listen, and respond, the main way parents communicate their affection is through touch. Soothing touch is a wonderful way for parents to display their love in a nonverbal manner. Even after a child learns to speak, physical closeness will still be extremely comforting to your little one. A hug before school or a snuggle during a movie night will help your child feel safe and calm around you, which is foundational for any strong relationship.
Connect to the Community
While a child’s relationship with their family members is the most meaningful connection they can develop, it’s also important for them to practice building relationships with others as well. Building strong connections with grandparents, coaches, friends, and teachers can help them feel connected to the wider community. Help your child make new friends by modeling friendliness and compassion, taking a trip to visit extended family, or attending a local park. By giving your preschooler the chance to interact and play with others, you can feel confident your child will mature into a self-assured and capable young person.
The Gardner School Helps Preschoolers Build Relationships
The Gardner School is a healthy place for kids to meet same-age peers and develop essential social and teamwork skills. Through family-style meals and plenty of learning-based playtimes, The Gardner School helps students build relationships and practice kindness to others. Our warm and caring teachers understand child development and use that knowledge to help kids reach intellectual, physical, and social milestones. Schedule a tour to visit us today!