While he is strict, disciplined, and materialistically supportive of his children, it is important to spend ‘time’ with them. You don’t need to be doing productive things only. Sometimes doing simple things like gardening, fixing something around the house, or even watching TV with them helps create lifelong bonds with your children. Yes, watching TV with your children is a fantastic activity to improve and build bonds between parents and children. Three reasons that should motivate you to watch TV with your child regardless of her age:

Develop understanding: When a parent watches TV with their children, they usually argue and then mutually agree to watch something that appeals to both of them, or maybe one party has to compromise. This should be seen as an excellent opportunity to teach children about adaptation. It is very important to learn the lesson of making some adjustments in your life for your loved ones. Parents and children also develop mutual understanding and respect for each other’s choices. Of course, both parties have to take turns making that little sacrifice for the other. Only then do trust and understanding develop.

Discussion and friendship: when parents and children watch something together, there will always be a different perspective on the problems; by amicably discussing and debating there can be a better understanding of the problem by both parties. Discussion and debate encourage children to think their thoughts clearly and express them, and also to get guidance and correction from the experienced parent. Never argue with authority because that will prevent the child from thinking freely. The idea is to teach the child to look at problems from all angles. Don’t be critical or dismissive, otherwise you’ll never know what the child is thinking and won’t even want to tell you. He wants to encourage free speech and free thought here. Every generation thinks differently. Open your mind and have a healthy discussion or debate, without heated arguments. It is not necessary to agree on a point of view, issues can be left open. The idea is to make the child think. If handled carefully, the conversation improves the relationship and increases family understanding.

Bridging Generation Gap: When parents watch shows that kids love and, alternatively, kids watch what parents like, both learn to understand the perspective of the other generation. It is very important to bridge the generation gap, and that too in a respectful way. This helps solve other problems that arise later in life. Parents understand the challenges, likes and dislikes of the new generation and, on the other hand, children understand why their parents think and advise the way they do.

In the end, it’s important to enjoy each other’s company, spend time together, and respect each other. Respect is a keyword here. Just as parents expect children to respect them, even children need parental respect as they grow older. Television is a great way to connect.