Relationships need nurturing as much as our bodies do to stay healthy. When you, your children or family have been affected by domestic abuse, it’s important to work on connecting with your children every day, whether you intend to build trust, provide assurance and protection, or just to show that you care and that you are there for them.

This Mother’s Day, try creating one-minute love connections each day. This will only take a short time, but the seeds planted will reap a rich harvest in your relationship.

• The extra-long looks – take a deep breath and look at your child for a full minute and smile with appreciation.

• The big snuggle – You will be surprised at how good you can make someone feel if you take a ten-second hug and extend it to a full minute. The extra fifty seconds will give them reassurance that they are loved and protected.

• Love phrases – Stop all activity and look directly into your child’s eyes. Here are some suggestions to say: ‘I love you’, ‘You’re wonderful’, ‘You make me smile’, ‘My world is better with you in it’.

• Creative gestures – Since 85% of all people are visual learners, don’t underestimate the power of gestures, such as making a heart shape with your hands or blowing a kiss.

• The tender touch – Parents who cup their children’s hands in theirs whilst stooping down to hold eye contact with them and give them a compliment will gain vital connections. 

• Silly connections – Walking in a funny way, saying something in a silly voice, high fives – these all appealing to children and can enforce bonds by making them smile and laugh.

• Esteem builders – Praises and compliments enforce the love connection.

• The empathic connection – When there isn’t time for a longer connection and your loved one is in need – giving a minute of empathy can be soothing and healing.

• Friendly messages – When you can’t be there in person – a friendly note or phone message can be a great substitute.

How will you be creating connections this Mother’s Day?