Coexistence is a challenge that can jeopardize the family bond. As much as you love each other, each person is a world, with their own character, preferences and needs. If already in couples that live together friction can arise, when you add small children to the equation, the conflicts become more recurrent.
Some parents who lose patience because their child does not obey, a small child who refuses to sit at the table to eat or a teenager who talks back because he has had a bad day. Arguments over housework, a slammed door or who takes the dog for a walk. Reproaches for some toys not picked up or the control of the television… There are many causes that can put the harmony of coexistence against the ropes on a recurring basis in the daily routine.
To avoid them as far as possible, it is important to establish rules to improve family life at home. They must be rational and well-argued guidelines, always avoiding “because I said so”. Likewise, we must explain them to children so that they understand them and the rules must be applied to all members of the family unit, since reciprocity and the example of the older ones to the younger ones is very positive.
Establish rules related to education: ask permission to take something from another person, ask for things please, say thank you, apologize when someone makes a mistake… Also related to good manners, such as sitting down to eat at the table instead of running around around her, not put your shoes on the sofa, etc.
Distribute household tasks in an organized way, so that everyone knows which ones correspond to them and that they are adapted to their age. Setting the table, washing the dishes, making the beds, putting away clothes or toys and many other obligations that will make you live in better harmony and without one person being more overloaded than another with housework.
Instill respect in children in all areas, from respect for their parents’ taste in music to respect for their siblings’ personal space or desire to be alone. That one should not judge or criticize. Also, insist on the importance of helping each other in whatever way you can.
Establish open communication at home and a relationship based on understanding and empathy. That you can talk openly about how you feel, if you have had a bad day or something about another person has bothered you, so that you can talk about it and solve it.
Finally, for the bond to be strong and close, you have to look for quality moments to spend all together, beyond the rhythm of the routine. Watching a movie together on the weekend, going on a hike, or playing games are some examples.
