Celebrating The International Day of Families

Children who feel connected to their family are 67% less likely to engage in risky behaviors during adolescence.

Today, May 15, marks the International Day of Families - a global reminder that loe, connection and support are at the heart of every family regardless of its shape or size. This year's theme is "Family-Oriented Policies for Sustainable Development" and highlights the importance of the vital role families have in building a more inclusive, resilient and sustainable world.

But let's bring it closer to us. As parents - whether you are expecting your first baby, navigating the newborn or toddler years, or preparing your older child for a new sibling - family life is a beautiful (and sometimes chaotic!) journey. And while big milestones matter, it's often the small, everyday moments that build the strongest bonds. So how can you create more of those? Keep reading for some tips depending on where you are on your parenting journey.

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Looking to support our family and the planet? Don't miss Parent Path's eco-friendly baby essentials - full of practical, planet-loving items for new and expectant parents.

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For Expectant And New Parents

• Skin-to-skin cuddles: Skin-to-skin is not just for the first hours after birth. And it is not just for the birthing partner. And when we say skin-to-skin we don't always mean taking off your clothes and staying naked with your baby in your arms. The actual skin-on-skin has definitely lots of benefits (which I will analyse in another blogpost as there are so many!) but cuddling and holding your baby close to you can calm your baby and also support your emotional connection with them.

• Talk to the bump!: Whether you are pregnant or the partner, your baby can hear your voice from around 18 weeks (you can learn more about what happens week by week through Parent Path's weekly pregnancy emails!). So don't be shy - talk to your baby, sing or read aloud as apart from supporting your baby to get to know you, it also helps you bond with them before birth

• Create mini rituals: Another way for you to bond with your baby is to create some rituals. Whether that is singing a bedtime lullaby or a daily walk, having some mini rituals can become grounding rituals for both of you.

For Growing Families

• Involve older siblings: If you have a baby, try not to tell them "no" and "don't" the time. Instead, let them help with baby prep like choosing clothes, reading to or with them, packing the hospital bag etc.

• Spend 121 time: If you have a growing family, spending time with each of your kids (even 10 minutes of undivided attention) can reassure them and make them understand their special place in your family.

• Celebrate your older kids' role: Acknowledge your older kids' role as "big brothers" or "big sisters" with small gestures or keepsakes (not responsibilities!).

For Families Near And Far

• Virtual hugs and love: If your extended family lives far from you scheduling regular video calls with grandparents or relatives can help maintain connections and get to know your family - I know this firsthand since most of my relatives live in Greece or Finland (and I'm in the UK).

• Share traditions: Something that is often overlooked.. what family traditions do you have? What would you like to pass on to your children? Whether that's cultural celebrations or cooking/ eating together a family recipe can bring up childhood and family stories - an excellent way to bond!

• Create a family time capsule: Collect drawings, letters or photos to look at together in the future!

Remember, there's no "perfect" way to be like a family. It's all about showing up, being present and cherishing the moments - big and small - that make your family unique.