September 2, 2014
Ever since launching our Kids Need Connections campaign last spring, we’ve had countless discussions with service providers, families and staff about how to build the connections that we know are so critical for happy, healthy and safe children.
One of the tools we’ve developed is a series of Children’s Stories that Build Resiliency, a list of children’s books with questions to help adults and children connect and engage in discussions to build resiliency. And we often hear from child welfare professionals about other games, workshops and more that can help build those connections as well.
But a recent blog post — from a business website, of all places — reminded us that making a connection can often be so SIMPLE. Here are some of our favorites (with a few notes from us on how it might apply to children, too!)
[Re-posted from Young Entrepreneur Council and wework.com: “10 Habits of People Who Connect With Anyone”]
#1 Smile. This is by far the fastest way in the world to create a connection.
#4 Be genuine. There is only one type of connection — one you genuinely care about.
#6 Pay attention. The easiest way to be interesting is to be interested. Find excitement in what you can learn from others. Hear what they say. Listen and learn about what matters to them — not so you can say something back as soon as possible, but so you can get a window into their world. People (especially kids!) want to tell their story. Be the person excited to hear it (or they’ll stop trying to tell it to you).
#8 Be open to conversation. Embrace conversation with those around you. (Be a safe, open place for your kids to come when they want to talk.)
# 10 Be uniquely YOU. Be vulnerable and open. Share your real story and goals…Talking about the weather does not build connection. Being real does. (Sharing your feelings and being open with your kids is a GREAT way to make them feel cherished and trusted.)
You can read all 10 tips from the original blog post on wework.com here.
How will you be building connections with kids this week?