For many parents, Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour was an amazing bonding opportunity with their kids. An education expert explains how not to shake it off.
Dr Elise Waghorn, education expert
“We’ve seen the Eras Tour bring valuable family bonding moments, with mother-daughter dress ups and reluctant dads suddenly realising they might share their kid’s music taste.
“From going to the concert, making friendship bracelets, watching the Eras Tour on Disney, or having a sing along on the car – these moments are great examples of connection. So, how can families strengthen the relationships that these bonding moments have helped nurture?
“While there is no specific formula for a parent-child relationship, it has been demonstrated that providing a child with a warm, trusting and supportive home life increases connections significantly.
“Some research even suggests that for every negative feeling or interaction between people, there must be at least five positive interactions or feelings for a healthy relationship to form.
“Obviously the more positive interactions people have, the stronger the relationship.
“Being in the moment with your children is central to a good relationship.
“Parents should show acceptance by supporting their child’s ideas, noticing what their child likes and dislikes, and noticing what the child’s behaviour is telling them.
“While not much can beat the high of a Taylor Swift concert, quality time can happen during any moments throughout the day.
“Spending time with a child playing Fortnite or building a castle in Minecraft is more beneficial than nagging them about household chores or homework.
“If you’re feeling creative, undertake a course together or do a physical activity such as Zumba or Pilates. These provide moments of bonding without distractions.
“Develop parent-child rituals. Scheduling in special ‘date nights’ creates a great opportunity for one-on-one time.
“So, while, you might not have the opportunity to bond with your children at a sellout world tour every weekend, it doesn’t mean that your relationships can’t continue to thrive evermore.”
Dr Elise Waghorn has expertise in early childhood development. Her research focuses on exploring the everyday life of children in Australia and their connection to policy and educational experiences in Hong Kong and Singapore.
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