Parent-Child Communication: Building Strong Bonds Through Daily Interaction

Parent-child communication varies widely among families, with some maintaining daily contact while others communicate only occasionally. The frequency of communication can significantly impact the well-being of both parents and children. This article explores the significance of daily interaction and its role in boosting life energy and maintaining strong familial bonds.

Types of Parent-Child Communication

Some individuals like the author maintain a consistent weekly or biweekly communication pattern with their parents, as seen in the scenario where the author's mother, now 103 years old, is communicated with twice a week. However, during health crises, this communication increases to daily or more frequent exchanges. This heightened interaction is often associated with the caretaking of the parent and can positively impact the parent's life energy and overall well-being.

In contrast, other families, including the author's, do not maintain regular communication unless a situation arises that requires assistance. This intervals-based communication is characterized by a lack of daily interaction, even when the parent is most in need. Such relationships can be seen as unhealthy, as it intuitively suggests a disconnect that could be damaging to both parties.

Independence and Boundaries

A common viewpoint is that children should not rely on their parents for daily input. The author expresses this sentiment, stating 'They made me, but they don't own me.' This implies that children should be capable of living and functioning independently without constant parental influence.

There are exceptions, however. In situations where the parent, regardless of the quality of their relationship, needs support during health issues or emergencies, daily or multiple daily interactions can be crucial. The author mentions periods in which they spoke daily to their mother despite challenging circumstances, such as when her behavior was far from ideal. This demonstrates that temporary periods of increased communication can be beneficial in specific situations.

Prioritizing Health and Well-being

For those whose parents are still living, maintaining daily or frequent communication can significantly enhance the quality of the parent's health and well-being. In the case of the author's mother, who lived until 103 years old, regular communication played a vital role in boosting her life energy and overall vitality during health crises.

For parents whose children have passed, maintaining a connection through occasional communication and remembrance is equally important. The author reflects on her mother, who has been in heaven for 33 years, and how she still talks to her sometimes, a testament to the enduring nature of the parent-child bond.

Lastly, it is crucial to emphasize the value of strong familial bonds. Regular communication and interaction are not only beneficial during challenging times but also serve to build a strong foundation between parents and children. This helps to minimize regrets in life and maintain healthy, supportive relationships.

While independence is a valued trait, the importance of maintaining a strong connection with our parents should not be underestimated. Daily or frequent communication can significantly impact the well-being of both parties and help to build lasting bonds that can last a lifetime.