Share This

Treating for Child Development

By Dr. Anthony Volk

If you’re a parent, it will come as no surprise to you that positive parent-child relationships are extremely important – not just for your own sanity, but for overall child development.

A mom or dad who has a positive relationship with their child or children will find it easier to get their kids to listen, easier to earn respect from their kids and easier to get over a bad episode, a bad day or bad behaviour.

What does this have to do with treats?

Did you know that treats of all kinds – from a special shared experience to a simple chocolate bar – can be used to help build those positive parent-child relationships?  In fact, when used as part of overall positive parenting practices, treats can:

• Show children that their parent is concerned about making them happy, and willing to do things that make them happy.
• Set a positive mood to make a child more receptive to what a parent has to say.
• Foster positive interactions between parents and children.

Giving and receiving treats – shared moments of joy – can help to build strong parent-child relationships.

When was the last time you gave your kid a treat?  Not because they did something you asked them to do, or because they brought home a good report card – but just because you love them and you want them know how you feel? Give a treat today – and reap the positive rewards tomorrow.