5 ways to make your child your best friend

There are many layers to parenting and there is no rulebook for it. Therefore for many individuals parenting gets overwhelming. The toughest part of this phase of life is establishing a connection with the child who is generations away from you.
Building a strong bond with your child is one of the most rewarding aspects of parenting. Becoming your child’s best friend doesn’t mean giving up your role as a parent; it means building a relationship rooted in trust, respect, and love. The result is a relationship where your child feels safe, loved, and eager to share their world with you. And isn’t that the greatest gift of all?
Here are five ways to nurture a relationship where your child sees you as their best friend.
Children crave understanding and validation, especially from their parents. When they share their thoughts, fears, or dreams, listen with empathy and without judgment. When children feel heard, they’re more likely to trust you and come to you with their problems, making you their go-to confidant.
Create a safe space where your child feels comfortable opening up. Maintain eye contact, nod reassuringly, and avoid interrupting. Even if they share something you find surprising or concerning, focus on listening first before reacting.
Time spent together is the foundation of every parent child relationship. Make an effort to engage in activities that both you and your child enjoy. Shared experiences create lasting memories and strengthen your bond. Quality time also shows your child that they are a priority in your life.
Dedicate specific time for one-on-one activities, such as playing board games, cooking together, or going for a walk. Let your child choose the activity sometimes to show that their preferences matter.

Friendships are built on honesty, and the same applies to your relationship with your child. Sharing your feelings, challenges, and even mistakes helps your child see you as relatable and trustworthy. Being open about your life encourages your child to do the same. It also teaches them valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of honesty.
Talk about your own experiences, including both successes and failures. For example, if you had a tough day, share it in an age-appropriate way. Let them know it’s okay to have ups and downs.
Show genuine interest in your child’s hobbies and passions, even if they’re different from your own. This demonstrates respect for their individuality and boosts their confidence. When you invest time and energy into their interests, your child feels valued and understood. This strengthens your bond and fosters mutual appreciation.
Attend their soccer games, help them with a science project, or listen to their favorite music. Ask thoughtful questions about what excites them and encourage their creativity.
As children grow, they need room to develop their own identities. Encouraging independence while maintaining a supportive presence is key to building a balanced relationship. Respecting their independence helps your child feel capable and trusted. It also shows that you value them as an individual, not just as your child.
Allow your child to make age-appropriate decisions, even if it means they might make mistakes. Offer guidance without being overbearing, and let them solve problems on their own when possible.