3 Couples Therapy Strategies for Parents: Healthy Relationship = Healthy Kids
Category: Couples
Read on for tips and tricks to make your romantic relationship stronger – and your kids happier – even in the chaos of family life.
Topic Of Discussion
Parenting isn’t easy. Amidst the chaos of raising kids, it can feel easier (if not just plain necessary!) to push your romantic relationship to the back burner. Still, nurturing your connection with your partner is one of the most powerful ways to support your children’s well-being and growth. Kids thrive when they see love, respect, and teamwork modeled at home. In other words, taking care of your relationship as a couple can actually increase a sense of emotional security and resilience in your kids.
So how can good relationships grow stronger, even in the chaos of family life? Read on!
1. Utilize the non-violent communication model
The non-violent communication (NVC) model, created by psychologist Marshall Rosenberg, is a powerful tool that encourages empathy, clear expression, and mutual respect between partners. In practice, this means identifying and expressing your feelings and needs without blame, while also actively listening to your partner’s perspective. For example, instead of saying, “You never help with the kids,” an NVC approach would be, “I feel overwhelmed when I don’t have help in the evenings, and I need more support during that time.” Using this model consistently helps de-escalate the everyday tensions that can arise between parents and models healthy communication for kids.
2. Check-ins > date night
Date nights are valuable (more on that next!) but especially when kids’ schedules get crazy, daily check-ins can be even more effective for couples to stay emotionally connected amid the daily parent grind. So, whether over a cup of coffee in the morning or while you’re getting ready to go to sleep, structured conversations for partners to share feelings, offer appreciation, and address any challenges will keep your relationship grounded and your home more supportive for your kids.
3. But schedule date nights too!
That said, date nights of carving out time for fun and connection as a couple are essential! Remember that date nights don’t need to be elaborate or expensive either! What matters is being intentional about spending time together without distractions. Whether it’s watching a movie after the kids go to bed, going for a walk, or having dinner out, these moments of connection help reignite your bond and remind you of who you are beyond being parents.
Wrapping it up
Couples therapy from Tri-Star Counseling seeks to help you rebuild love, trust, intimacy, and other aspects of a strong relationship. Our therapists guide you both in exercises and processes to grow, heal, and reconnect. If you’re having problems, contact us to schedule a consultation.
