What are some good ways to bond with my child?

As a parent, you are your children’s biggest role model. Your principles and beliefs greatly influence and shape how your child views himself. Anything you can do that gives you a chance to connect to your children and spend time with them is a positive thing. It doesn’t really matter what it is: walking, shopping, watching movies, even doing chores together (although this may not be your kid’s favorite thing to do with you). Doing activities together as a family or just one-on-one, parent and child, encourages family bonding, making your child feel secure and connected, and boosts his or her self-esteem. Something as simple as taking a walk around the block with your child will give you a chance to check in with each other and get beyond the one-word answer “Fine” to your question, “How was school today?”

From Good Kids, Bad Habits: The RealAge Guide to Raising Healthy Children by Jennifer Trachtenberg.