Intentional parenting

Tag: parent

  • Connected parenting

    Guide for African Migrant Parents: Staying Connected to Your Teenagers

    Parenting as an African migrant comes with unique challenges, especially when raising teenagers in a new culture. Balancing traditional values with the realities of life abroad can create tension, but staying connected with your teen is vital for their growth and maintaining a strong family bond. Here’s a practical guide to help:

    1. Understand Their World

    • Learn About the Local Culture

    Take time to understand the culture your teen is growing up in. This will help you better comprehend their challenges and pressures, such as peer relationships, school dynamics, or social norms.

    Tip: Attend school events or community activities to observe and engage with their environment.

    • Stay Updated on Trends

    Be aware of what interests them—social media, music, fashion, or sports. Ask them about what’s popular and listen without judgment.

    Example: “What’s your favorite app these days? Can you show me how it works?”

    2. Communicate Openly and Often

    • Create a Safe Space

    Teens may hesitate to open up if they fear judgment or punishment. Show empathy and listen without interruption.

    Example: “I may not fully understand, but I want to hear how you feel.”

    • Be Consistent with Check-ins

    Regularly ask about their day, friendships, and feelings. Make conversations a habit, not just when there’s a problem.

    Tip: Have chats during shared activities like cooking, driving, or walking. Eat at the table away from TV and gadgets.

    3. Blend Cultures Positively

    • Teach Them Your Heritage

    Share stories, traditions, and values from your African roots to give them a sense of identity and pride.

    Example: Celebrate cultural festivals or cook traditional meals together. Attend local festivals such as The Zim Heritage Festival, more details here

    • Embrace Their New Environment

    Allow your teen to explore and adopt aspects of their current culture while guiding them to balance both worlds.

    Tip: Celebrate achievements that matter to them, whether it’s excelling in school or pursuing a hobby. Enrol them in after school activities eg sports, drama. You can google your local area or ask your school for some guidance. If you live in Buckinghamshire, you can check the family information website here

    4. Show Affection and Encouragement

    • Acknowledge Their Efforts

    Praise their achievements and effort, no matter how small. Teens crave validation from their parents.

    Example: “I’m proud of how you handled that situation with your friend.”

    • Offer Emotional and Physical Support

    Be available when they’re stressed or need comfort. A simple hug or reassuring words can mean a lot.

    5. Set Boundaries with Love

    • Balance Discipline with Understanding

    Explain the reasoning behind rules instead of enforcing them without context.

    Example: “I’m asking you to come home by 9 PM because I worry about your safety.”

    • Be Flexible When Necessary

    While it’s important to uphold family values, adjust your expectations to fit their realities.

    6. Be Involved in Their Education

    • Engage with Their School Life

    Attend parent-teacher meetings and know their academic strengths and challenges. Show interest in their goals.

    Tip: Ask how you can support them with their studies or extracurricular activities.

    • Encourage Lifelong Learning

    Help them see the value of education, whether academic, vocational, or personal development. Share your own experiences of perseverance. Read together as families. Watch documentaries that are informative and educational.

    7. Handle Conflicts with Care

    • Avoid Comparisons

    Don’t compare them to peers or other teenagers eg. cousins years in Africa. This can make them feel misunderstood.

    • Resolve Disagreements Calmly

    When arguments arise, take a step back to cool off before discussing solutions. Apologize if needed; it models respect and humility.

    8. Build a Support Network

    • Connect with Other Parents

    Join local community groups or parenting networks to share experiences and advice. We have a whatsapp community here at Intentional Parenting to offer support and guidance.

    • Involve Mentors or Elders

    Trusted community members or family friends can reinforce values and offer guidance to your teen.

    9. Foster Independence

    • Give Them Responsibility

    Encourage them to make decisions and learn from their mistakes. This builds confidence.

    • Prepare Them for the Future

    Talk about career paths, finances, and life skills to help them transition into adulthood.

    10. Take Care of Yourself

    • Manage Your Stress

    Parenting is demanding, especially in a new country. Seek support if needed through community resources or counseling. Local authority are also good places to get help. Please don’t stew in your problems with your children.

    For a confidential and non judgemental chat, reach out to Fadzai click here. You can find out more about Fadzai

    • Model Healthy Behavior

    Teens often emulate their parents. Show resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn.

    Final Thoughts

    Building a strong relationship with your teenager takes time, patience, and effort. By combining the wisdom of your African heritage with the opportunities of your new environment, you can raise confident, well-rounded children who appreciate their roots and thrive in their new home.

    Wishing you every success in this journey!

    Remain Intentional

    Fadzai 🌱

  • Parenting support and services

    Support for Parents Who Want Calm, Confidence and Connection.

    Parenting is one of the most important roles we hold — yet many parents are left navigating it alone, unsure whether they’re doing “enough” or responding in the right way.

    Intentional Parenting was created to change that.

    I’m Fadzai, a parenting consultant, safeguarding lead and community builder. Through Intentional Parenting, I support parents who want to raise emotionally secure, resilient children while building calm, connected family life.

    This space is for parents who are not looking for perfection — but for clarity, confidence and practical support that fits real life.

    What Is Intentional Parenting?

    Intentional parenting is about making thoughtful choices, even in the middle of busy, messy family life.

    It’s about:

    Understanding behaviour rather than reacting to it. Strengthening communication and emotional connection. Parenting in line with your values, not pressure or fear. Creating safe, supportive environments where children can thrive.

    At Intentional Parenting, support is compassionate, practical and grounded in real-world parenting challenges.

    How I Support Parents

    My work focuses on four key areas of parenting support:

    🌿 Emotional Wellbeing & Behaviour

    Helping parents understand emotions, manage challenging behaviour and reduce overwhelm at home.

    🗣 Communication & Connection

    Supporting stronger relationships through calm communication, boundaries and repair after conflict.

    🧭 Intentional Parenting & Family Life

    Helping parents move from reactive parenting to intentional routines, rhythms and values-led family life.

    🛡 Safeguarding & Family Safety

    Supporting parents to confidently protect their children’s wellbeing through everyday safeguarding and early support.

    These services are offered through 1:1 parenting coaching, group cohorts, community spaces and workshops.

    A Different Kind of Parenting Support.

    Intentional Parenting is not about quick fixes or one-size-fits-all advice.

    It is about:

    Walking alongside parents. Creating space for reflection and growth. Offering tools that work in everyday family life. Supporting parents before challenges become crises.

    Parents come for support at all stages — whether navigating early childhood, school transitions, adolescence, or simply wanting to parent with more intention.

    Join the Intentional Parenting Community

    Alongside coaching and services, Fadzai also offers community-based support through spaces such as The 6AM Collective — a reflective parenting community offering connection, prayer, learning cohorts and shared growth.

    You’re welcome to engage at your own pace, in a way that supports your family.

    Start Here

    If you’re ready to explore parenting support that feels grounded, respectful and practical, you’re in the right place.

    👉 Explore parenting coaching : here

    👉 Join the community :Whatsapp

    👉 Read the latest blog posts on this platform

    You don’t have to do parenting alone — and you don’t have to do it perfectly.

  • #Momofteens

    What have I learnt on raising teen so far?

    – Awe

    Yes you will be filled with awe on how tall, beautiful they have grown. You will catch your breath a few times. You will be amazed at their thinking and outlook on life.

    –Love

    Your love language will change. You will learn to express your love, appreciation and gratitude in a different way as teens are not keen on showing emotions. You will love them on most days and want to kill them on others. Know the difference.

    –Fear

    It will creep on you from most angles. If it’s not their friends, the school or community it will be the local and world news. Choose faith. Have faith in your child and your parenting skills. God qualified you for the job. Own it.

     

    –weight

    Yoh will gain, I believe from worry, lack of sleep or early menopause.Or it could be simply from leading a sedentary life. Those school runs, after school activities not only keep them busy but helps the mamas too.  Which ever way, you will be be lovely to cuddle.

     

    -Freedom

    Yes, you will have the new found freedom to have lie ins, meet friends and do other things. It will surely happen. Let your teens see you happy and use your spare time effectively . If you are like me who started the parenting game early, travel and see the world. Go for that dinner date without feeling guilty.

    Anything else you can add?

    Do you have teens? Would love to hear from you!

    Remain in the game

    Love Fadzi xx

     

     

     

  • Safeguarding your children as a parent

    Understanding Safeguarding

    Safeguarding refers to the measures taken to protect children from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and harm. It involves promoting their welfare, ensuring they grow up in a safe environment, and taking action when there are concerns about their safety.

    Our founder and director Fadzai is a safeguarding consultant with extensive experience working at senior level in health and social care covering both public and private sector organisations. Full detail on her linkdn

    Key Safeguarding Responsibilities for Parents

    1. Recognising Signs of Abuse and Neglect

    Parents should be aware of potential signs of harm, which can include:

    • Physical abuse: Unexplained bruises, burns, or fractures.

    • Emotional abuse: Low self-esteem, withdrawal, or fearfulness.

    • Sexual abuse: Inappropriate sexual knowledge, fear of a certain person, or secrecy. This includes sexting, where young people send inappropriate images to each other.

    • Neglect: Poor hygiene, malnutrition, or lack of supervision, medical neglect.

    If you suspect abuse, contact your local safeguarding team, GP, school, or social services. You can also call the NSPCC (0808 800 5000) or Childline (0800 1111) for guidance.

    2. Online Safety Measures

    With increasing screen time, safeguarding children online is essential:

    • Use parental controls on devices and apps.

    • Monitor social media activity and set boundaries.

    • Teach children about online dangers, including cyberbullying and grooming.

    • Encourage open discussions so they feel safe reporting concerns.

    3. Supervision and Safe Environments

    • Always know your child’s whereabouts and who they are with.

    • Ensure they have a trusted adult to confide in.

    • Teach them about “stranger danger” while balancing the need to be polite.

    • Ensure babysitters, nannies, or carers are DBS-checked and reputable.

    4. Mental Health and Emotional Well-being

    Children’s mental well-being is just as important as physical health. Look out for:

    • Sudden changes in mood or behaviour.

    • Anxiety, depression, or withdrawal from activities.

    • Self-harm or talk of hopelessness.

    Encourage open conversations and seek professional support through your GP, school counsellors, CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services), or charities like YoungMinds.

    5. Health and Medical Safeguarding

    • Keep up with childhood immunisations.

    • Store medications safely out of children’s reach.

    • Teach basic first aid and when to call 999 in emergencies.

    • Encourage a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition and exercise.

    6. Safeguarding in Schools and Activities

    • Ensure schools have strong safeguarding policies and designated safeguarding leads (DSLs).

    • Check that clubs, sports teams, and extracurricular activities follow child protection policies.

    • Encourage children to report bullying or any uncomfortable experiences.

    What to Do If You Have Concerns

    If you suspect a child is at risk, take immediate action:

    1. Report concerns to the school’s DSL, GP, or local safeguarding team.

    2. Contact social services or the police (101 for non-emergency, 999 for urgent danger).

    3. Use national helplines like NSPCC, Barnardo’s, or the Local Safeguarding Children Partnerships (LSCPs)

    Final Thoughts

    Safeguarding is a shared responsibility among parents, caregivers, professionals, and the wider community. By staying informed, creating open conversations, and knowing where to seek help, you can play a vital role in keeping your child safe and supported.

    For further advice, visit:

    • NSPCC: www.nspcc.org.uk

    • Childline: www.childline.org.uk

    • UK Government Safeguarding Guidance: www.gov.uk

    If you need specific advice, advocacy, safeguarding concerns or challenges, feel free to ask. Get in touch with Fadzai here

    Remain intentional

    Fadzai x

  • Intentional prayers

    The prayer of the righteous avail much so my prayers as a parent establish Gods word in my life and loved ones.

    Thank you Lord for the gifts and talents you have deposited in my children. We Impress these upon their hearts and minds so that they may fulfil them.

    Teach us as parents to be great stewards and custodians of what our children carry.

    • I arise today in my authority as a parent to declare the promises of God concerning my children. You said that the Words that I speak are life, so I open my mouth to speak into my child/ren’s life. I pronounce the blessing of the Lord that makes one rich and add no sorrow. I stand before heaven and earth to declare that Your Word is alive and active in my life and my family. I testify that ALL your promises are yes and amen in You. I paralyse every demonic force that rises to silence me. I denounce every evil word or intent that has been pronounced concerning me and my family. I sever every generational curse, confusion, and misalignment.
    • I declare that I am a generational blesser. I am called for such a time as this. I arise in the anointing and gifting of Esther that changes situations and circumstance. I declare that my children will recognise my voice as a voice of CLARITY, COUNSEL, LOVE & Authority. I am attentive to the workings and dealings of the spirit as I have the anointing of the Holy One, to know all things {1John 2:20} I operate under the mantle of Deborah for leadership. I am a mother in Zion. My heart and mind is ignited with greater passion to effect the next generation.
    • Thank you that in calling upon Your name, you are revealing mysteries and deeper things that I do not know {Jeremiah 33:3}. Thank you that I am a witness for Christ. Thank you for equipping me for this great purpose in Christ Jesus.
    • Thank you Lord for the community of praying parents. You said where two or three are gathered in Your name, You are in the midst of them. I declare that You hear and answer prayer. Thank you for destiny helpers. As we join our faith, Lord establish Your purpose in us. Remember our children and our households.
    • Amen

  • Dear son/ daughter in law

    I am praying for you. Yes I know it will be a while before we meet you. However I am excited and expectant at the prospect of you joining our family. I also want you to know that I am doing the ground work in your future spouse. I am praying and having lots of introspective conversations.

    It is my prayer that you both thrive in this. Below is my prayer for you. I will be praying this over you now and always.

    Lord I thank you for my future son/ daughter in law.

    I come before You today with a heart full of hope and trust in Your perfect plans. I lift up in prayer the future spouse of my child. I ask for Your guidance and blessing upon their life even now, as they journey towards the time when they will meet and join our family.

    Lord, I pray for their character:

    “Create in them a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within them” (Psalm 51:10). May they grow in integrity, kindness, and love, reflecting Your nature in all they do.

    Guide their steps, Lord

    “I ask that they trust in You with all your heart and lean not on their own understanding; in all thier ways submit to You, and You will make their paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6). Direct their choices and lead them on a path of righteousness.

    Bless their relationships:

    “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8). Surround them with friendships that encourage and uplift, and help them to grow in love and understanding.

    Strengthen their faith:

    “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful” (Colossians 3:15). Draw them close to You, that their faith may be firm and their trust in You unshakeable.

    Prepare their hearts for marriage:

    “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs” (1 Corinthians 13:4-5). Teach them the true meaning of love and equip them with the qualities that will make them a wonderful spouse.

    Grant them wisdom and discernment:

    “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (James 1:5). Help them to make wise decisions that honor You and bless their future marriage.

    Thank You, Lord, for hearing my prayer. I trust in Your timing and Your plans, and I look forward to the day when we will welcome this special person into our family.

    In Jesus’ name, Amen.

    If you have prayed or are praying, do share in comment section below. I want to join my faith with your regarding the future of our children.

    God bless you.

  • Men’s mental health week

    What can we do as mothers to support our son’s mental well being?

    Maintaining good mental health is essential for overall well-being. Here are seven tips for that mothers can role model to their sons to support and improve their mental health:

    1. Open Up About Your Feelings:
    • Talking about your feelings isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a way to take charge of your well-being. Whether it’s with friends, family, or a therapist, sharing your thoughts and emotions can relieve stress and provide new perspectives.

    2.Stay Active:

    • Regular physical activity boosts mood, reduces stress, and improves overall mental health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. Activities like walking, running, or team sports can be particularly beneficial.

    3.Maintain a Healthy Diet:

    • Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can positively impact your mood and energy levels. Avoid excessive sugar, caffeine, and alcohol.

    4.Build Strong Relationships:

    • Investing time in building and maintaining relationships can provide a valuable support network. Social connections are crucial for emotional support and can help combat feelings of isolation. You can join our facebook community here

    5.Set Realistic Goals:

    • Setting achievable goals provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps and celebrate your progress along the way.
    • 6.Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation:
    • Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help reduce stress and increase your ability to stay present in the moment. Even a few minutes a day can make a difference.

    7.Seek Professional Help When Needed:

    • If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, seeking help from a mental health professional is crucial. Therapists, counselors, and support groups can provide strategies and support to navigate difficult times.

    Prioritizing mental health can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life. Remember, it’s important to address mental health proactively, just as you would physical health.

  • Self acceptance

    Today our journal reading was on Self acceptance.

    Self-acceptance is a crucial aspect of mental and emotional well-being. Here are some strategies for fostering self-acceptance, along with relevant Bible verses for spiritual encouragement:

    1. Practice Self-Compassion

    Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend.

    • Bible Verse: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32

    2. Focus on Your Strengths

    Identify and celebrate your strengths and achievements, rather than dwelling on weaknesses or failures.

    • Bible Verse: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13

    3. Embrace Your Uniqueness

    Recognize that you are unique and that your individuality is a gift.

    • Bible Verse: “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” – Psalm 139:13-14

    4. Forgive Yourself

    Let go of past mistakes and forgive yourself, understanding that everyone makes errors.

    • Bible Verse: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” – 1 John 1:9

    5. Practice Gratitude

    Regularly reflect on and express gratitude for the positive aspects of your life.

    • Bible Verse: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18

    6. Set Realistic Goals

    Set achievable goals and celebrate your progress, no matter how small.

    • Bible Verse: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

    7. Surround Yourself with Supportive People

    Build a community of friends and family who uplift and encourage you. Our intentional parenting whatsapp group is a community of hardworking, committed mothers who are willing to build a village.

    • Bible Verse: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11

    8. Take Care of Your Body

    Engage in activities that promote physical health, as this can enhance your mental and emotional well-being. This may we have embarked on #10kintentionalwalk challenge in aid of our mental health.

    • Bible Verse: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own.” – 1 Corinthians 6:19

    9. Engage in Mindfulness and Prayer

    Practice mindfulness and prayer to center yourself and connect with your spirituality. Our 6am club is a cornerstone and safe space to start the day. We do prayers Monday- Friday 6am-6:30am.

    • Bible Verse: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6

    10. Accept God’s Unconditional Love

    Remember that God’s love for you is unconditional and everlasting.

    • Bible Verse: “Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 8:39

    By integrating these strategies and reflecting on these Bible verses, you can nurture a sense of self-acceptance that is rooted in both personal growth and spiritual understanding.

    Hope this helps.

    stay blessed

    stay intentional 🌱

  • Playful Parent

    We are continuing with our Affirmations challenge. Cannot believe it’s end of November already! today we’re saying to out children ‘ You are fun to be with’.

    Can your children say the same about you?

    What does fun and playfulness look like in your home? We all have different expressions of being funny, playful and enjoying life.

    For most of us African parents, we may not have seen our parents roll on the floor with laughter, tickle or cuddle us. They had their own ways of being fun. May be they enjoyed telling folktales. May be they enjoyed singing and dancing to hyms. That was their idea of fun and there is nothing wrong with that.

    The idea of being playful especially here in diaspora can seem very alien to us parents of African heritage, as everywhere you look, there are pictures or literature on Western ways of playful parenting. I would encourage you to do what feels FUN for you. Share that side of you with your children.

    Once in a while, don’t worry about the mounting bills, all the responsibilities that come with being a parent.

    Do something that makes you have belly laughs.

    Dance to your favourite music like no-one is watching.

    Hang out with the girls or boys where needed.

    Below I share some

    Tips for being playful.

    1. Embrace Playfulness: Don’t be afraid to let loose and engage in playful activities. Whether it’s a spontaneous dance party in the living room or pretending to be pirates in the backyard, embracing your inner child creates a joyful atmosphere.
    2. Create Family Traditions: Establishing fun and memorable family traditions fosters a sense of togetherness. It could be a weekly game night, Friday movie night, Pizza party, a special breakfast on Saturdays, or an annual family outing. Consistency builds anticipation and strengthens family bonds.
    3. Be Open to Spontaneity: Sometimes, the most enjoyable moments happen unexpectedly. Be open to spontaneous adventures, like a last-minute picnic in the park or a surprise movie night, bowling evening, a drive through your neighbour or some random place. Flexibility adds an element of excitement to family life.
    4. Use Humor: A good sense of humor can diffuse tension and create a lighthearted atmosphere. Share jokes, play silly games, or simply find humor in everyday situations. Laughter is a powerful tool for bonding. Be open to silliness.
    5. Incorporate Learning into Fun: Turn educational activities into enjoyable experiences. Whether it’s a science experiment at home, a nature scavenger hunt, or a creative art project, blending learning with fun makes it engaging for both you and your children.
    6. Be Present: Quality time is key to being a fun parent. Put away distractions, focus on the moment, and actively participate in your child’s world. Whether it’s reading a book together or building a fort, being fully present enhances the enjoyment.
    7. Encourage Creativity: Provide opportunities for creative expression. This could involve arts and crafts, music sessions, or imaginative play. Allowing your children to express themselves fosters a sense of autonomy and joy. Let your children see you join clubs and activists as well. Join a salsa class, go to the gym etc
    8. Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your child’s accomplishments, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement boosts their confidence and makes the learning process more enjoyable.
    9. Outdoor Adventures: Plan outdoor activities that cater to different interests. Whether it’s a nature hike, a day at the beach, or a bike ride, fresh air and physical activity contribute to a fun and healthy family dynamic.
    10. Express Affection: Show love and affection regularly. Hugs, high-fives, and words of encouragement create a positive and secure environment. Knowing they are loved unconditionally contributes to a happy and enjoyable family atmosphere.

  • Day 12 Affirmations challenge

    In todays challenge we are reminding our children that ‘You mean a lot to our family’. It’s important these words are meaningful and substantiated by actions. Would your children agree that they feel special and mean a lot? What are the things and actions that demonstrate that?

    Below are tips that you can apply to demonstrate to your child that s/he is important.

    1. Active Listening: Pay full attention when your child speaks. Show that their thoughts and feelings matter by actively engaging in conversations. Make an effort not to use the phone or screens.
    2. Quality Time: Dedicate focused, quality time to spend with your child regularly. This reinforces the importance of your relationship in their life. This could be dinner time, school run time. Normalise having connecting time with no distractions. Some parents enjoy having 1:1 dates and it does not have to be expensive.. coffee dates, etc
    3. Celebrating Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your child’s achievements, whether big or small. This reinforces their value and accomplishments. You can cook their favourite meal if they have been helpful in the week. Be clear what you are celebrating and refrain from celebrating academic achievement ONLY. Celebrate other virtues such as being kind, helpful, thoughtful etc.
    4. Personalized Attention: Provide individualized attention, addressing their unique needs and interests. This demonstrates that you understand and appreciate their individuality. Spend 1:1 time with your child doing the things they love.
    5. Express Affection: Regularly express affection through hugs, kisses, and verbal affirmations. Physical and verbal expressions of love emphasize their importance to you. You may not be comfortable with this if you did not grow up doing this, I would encourage you to lean onto your discomfort. You can start by hugging your child on specific times, eg when they leave home for school, when they come home, when you meet after a period of separation. You then build it up by cuddling them when on the couch together watching tv and so forth. Hugs and physical touch are good for us, they lower heart rate and blood pressure.
    6. Attend Events: Attend your child’s school events, performances, and activities. Your presence at these events communicates your active involvement and support. Negotiate with your employer so that you can attend key events and if you cannot, explain to your child in a way that they understand.
    7. Encourage Communication: Create an open and encouraging environment for your child to share their thoughts and concerns. Make it clear that their voice is heard and respected.
    8. Prioritise Safety: Ensuring your child’s safety is a tangible way of demonstrating their importance. Establishing a secure environment fosters trust and a sense of significance.
    9. Routine Check-Ins: Regularly check in with your child about their day, experiences, and feelings. It shows that you are genuinely interested in their well-being. Again the kitchen/ dining table is key for these discussions. For working parents, you can schedule a face time or video/ phone call to check on.
    10. Involve Them in Decision-Making: Include your child in age-appropriate decision-making processes. It empowers them and emphasizes that their input matters.
    11. Celebrate Special Days: Make a big deal out of their birthdays and other special occasions. Creating memorable experiences on these days reinforces their significance in your life.
    12. Create Traditions: Establish family traditions that involve your child. These can be simple routines or special activities that contribute to a sense of belonging.
    13. Display Their Artwork: Proudly showcase your child’s artwork or creations. This demonstrates that their efforts and creativity are valued. Let them know how proud you are of their creativity.
    14. Share Stories: Share stories about their childhood or family history. It fosters a sense of identity and importance in the family narrative. How about a family tree event. Talk about your own childhood. What did you enjoy the most? Who were the important people in your life . Why did you migrate?
    15. Encourage Individual Goals: Support and encourage your child in pursuing their personal goals and interests. It communicates that you believe in their potential.
    16. Celebrate Uniqueness: Embrace and celebrate the unique qualities and talents of your child. This reinforces that they are valued for who they are.
    17. Be Reliable: Be a reliable and consistent presence in your child’s life. Dependability creates a sense of security and importance.
    18. Apologize When Necessary: Acknowledge and apologize if you make a mistake. This teaches your child that their feelings and perspectives are respected.
    19. Listen Without Judgment: Create a non-judgmental space where your child feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences without fear of criticism.
    20. Offer Encouragement: Provide regular words of encouragement. Positive reinforcement reinforces their self-worth and importance. The affirmations challenge is key here to support those. More details on this

    Remember, it’s the combination of these actions that truly conveys to your child that they are cherished and important in your life.

    For more information, on upcoming masterclass and vision board workshop, do join the facebook page to be kept up to date.

    For parenting support, contact Fadzai via this link

    Remain intentional 🌱