When you are pregnant, there is lots you can do to support your child’s development. You can even start the bonding process before your baby is born, by massaging your tummy, and even talking and singing to your bump. Your baby will start to recognise the patterns of your voice which can create a calming effect after your baby is born.
Bonding with your baby
When you meet your baby for the first time, you can never underestimate how overwhelming it may be. Some parents instantly feel that maternal surge whereas others might struggle for various reasons such as difficult birth, feeding problems, post natal depression, baby blues or even the feeling life will never be the same again.
It can be really worrying for a parent who might not perhaps feel that overwhelming bond, but for lots of parents, it just takes time - many parents do not feel a connection straight away and this is perfectly normal. It is important not to feel under pressure to try and force yourself to address this if you are not ready to do so. It is quite ok for the bonding process to take its time. The gradual steps that bring you closer to your child will feel more natural to both of you. It is important to enlist the support of your health visitor so you feel more able to tackle this at your pace.
Parenting teenagers can be likened to a rollercoaster, with many ups and downs along the way. Some parents see changes in their teenager almost overnight whereas others may see a gradual change. Teenagers can also experience highs and lows through changes in their lives, both emotionally and physically. You may feel more anxious as your teen becomes more independent and it can become harder to give them advice. Parenting teenagers can be an enjoyable experience with a little bit of preparation and we offer a wealth of information on the different issues you might face.
Young people are far more likely to want to communicate with you if certain conditions are maintained. If your teenager has self-confidence or self-esteem and thinks highly of themselves, they are far more likely to have a positive attitude towards being in contact with you, and everyone else. You can help them to comminicate if you encourage them to have:
Bullying affects lots of people and can happen anywhere: at school, travelling to and from school, in sporting teams, in friendship or family groups or in the workplace.
There is no legal definition of bullying. But it is usually defined as repeated behaviour which is intended to hurt someone either emotionally or physically, and is often aimed at certain people because of their race, religion, gender or sexual orientation or any other aspect such as appearance or disability.
Bullying can take many forms including:
Telling Your Children
If you’re struggling with a family breakup, how do you keep your children in the loop? Looking at family breakups from the child’s point of view, find out what they need to know, what they don’t, and how you can still be a parent for them during this difficult time.
Being honest with your children
It’s really important to talk to your children about what is happening with your relationship and to be honest with them. They don’t necessarily need to know all the details about why your relationship has broken down but rather what is going to happen next. Younger children may be happy with fewer details but you can give older children more information if you feel it helps.
Let your children know that they can talk to you about their feelings. They may feel angry or sad, but it’s important that they know it is okay and normal for them to feel that way. Children need to know that you will still both be their parents and that you will always put their needs first and love them.