14 Ways to foster good rapport with your child

Undoubtedly, we know that it is important to establish a parent-child relationship over a friendship. But, if you’re stuck at not knowing how to keep the lines clear, here are 14 ways to foster good rapport with your child while not becoming a friend?

(Don’t hang out with your friend but do) spend quality time with him/her.
Provide structure, consequences and age-appropriate boundaries.
Ask about homework.
Always require respect, inside and outside your home.
Restrict excessiveness.
Monitor behavior.
Establish family traditions.
Establish family daily routines.
Collaborate with other adults who work with your child.
Keep healthy lines of communication open; Ask more than you share.
Save adult issues and news for your adult friends who can handle the emotional burden.
Speak firmly without raising your voice.
Be consistent.
Forgive yourself for any guilt you may be feeling for making your child your friend and resolve to put an end to it.

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Dr. Shekina Farr Moore is a passionate educator, gender advocate and certified youth and parent coach. She is the Founder and CEO of B2F Girls Worlwide, a gender empowerment incubator that produces advocacy initiatives, campaigns and events. She has spoken out against gender oppression and disempowerment since 1992, penning her first published article, "Blocking Out the Gender Gap", while a high school student. This article garnered the attention of the National Press for Women. She is also the author of Beautiful, Big-boned and Brown and co-author of When Dark Chocolate is Bittersweet: Controversy Within A Culture. Learn more about Dr. Moore at www.B2Fgirls.org.