This September, the Parenting Team at Claris Health invites you to slow down, check in, and reconnect.
By this point in the school year, the excitement of a fresh start may be settling into everyday routines. Children may be adjusting to new teachers, friendships, expectations, and responsibilities and parents may be adjusting right alongside them. Sometimes, what looks like a change in behavior is a child communicating that they are tired, overwhelmed, worried, or simply having a hard time adjusting.
Whether you’re parenting full-time, parenting on a schedule, co-parenting between households, or working toward rebuilding your relationship with your child, small moments of connection can make a big difference.
This month, our classes and workshops are focused on communication, emotional awareness, and strengthening the relationships that help families feel supported and connected. Be sure to check out our September calendar for upcoming classes, workshops, and resources.
Our focus this month is checking in before we check out; making time to listen, notice, and connect, even when life gets busy.
Parenting Tip of the Month:
Pause. Check In. Connect.
Ask more than “How was your day?”
Sometimes children answer “fine” because they don’t know how to explain what they’re feeling. Try questions like, “What was the best part of your day?” “Was anything hard today?” or “Is there anything you want me to know?”
Pay attention to changes.
A child who suddenly becomes quieter, more irritable, withdrawn, or resistant may be communicating a need. Instead of immediately correcting the behavior, try getting curious: “I noticed you’ve been having a hard time lately. What’s going on?”
Listen before solving.
Children don’t always need an answer right away. Sometimes they need to know that someone is willing to listen without judgment. Try saying, “That sounds really hard,” or “I’m glad you told me.”
Make connection fit your circumstances.
If your child is with you every day, create a regular time to check in. If you are co-parenting, consider sharing important information respectfully so your child has consistent support across households. If you aren’t currently able to see your child, focus on what is within your control—continue learning, growing, and preparing for opportunities to reconnect. When appropriate and permitted, a card, letter, encouraging message, or simply remembering an important milestone can remind your child that they are loved.
Don’t forget to check in with yourself.
Before responding to your child’s big emotions, take a moment to notice your own. Are you tired, frustrated, worried, or overwhelmed? Taking a breath and regulating yourself first can help you respond rather than react.
Remember: Connection doesn’t always require a big conversation or a perfect moment. Sometimes it’s five minutes at the kitchen table, a car ride, a phone call, a text, a listening ear, or simply letting your child know, “I’m here for you.”
Small moments of connection, repeated over time, help build trust.
With you every step of the way,
The Claris Health Parenting Team
