Connect With Kids: 7 Tips From a Mom Who Fights

This is the first in a series of “Moms Who Fight” which we’ll post over the next several months. Don't worry--we'll also be promoting “Dads Who Fight” as well! With these stories, we hope to inspire all of us to do our little bit to CHANGE THE WORLD.

by Dina Alexander, Founder of Educate Empower Kids

I'm a mom who loves to connect with kids. So when I discovered the huge disconnect between parents and kids when it comes to talking about sex and it's counterfeit, pornography, I had to take action.

Here's my story--a story I never saw coming!

A little over two years ago I read an article about the rampant use of pornography among teenagers. I began researching and it was like a fire was lit inside me. I knew I had to do something! I researched what various experts were saying and discovered that parents were severely outgunned in a war that I had every intention of fighting in.

Not only was porn hurting kids, but parents were afraid to connect with kids and talk about it.

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I decided to create a non-profit organization, Educate and Empower Kids whose purpose was to educate our kids and empower them to make great choices, with parents leading and guiding these efforts.

It's All About Time

There are several things we can do protect and connect with kids. The first is to spend time with them, one-on-one, if possible, every day.

I have let go of most (not all) of our after school activities because I have found them to be more of a distraction then character-building. My spouse and I have thought and discussed countless times what we want for our children and what are the best ways to help them achieve the strength and resilience we want them have when they move out someday. (This is great way to remind yourselves of what is most important and to unite in carrying it out.)

This evolved into a book that will be released in January called 30 Days to a Stronger Child, which I feel is pure gold when it comes to great parenting activities and discussions.

Every parent who reads this is capable of fighting for their kids and helping kids around them.

7 Tips to Build Connection with Kids

Here are my seven top tips for creating an empowering bond of connection with your kids:

• Talk daily/weekly with your kids about what matters most (self-respect, creating deep connection, etc.).
• Find a way to show them love every day.
• Fortify your children with your values and beliefs.
• Share your successes with friends and family in person or on social media.
• Educate others at every opportunity. (Yes, I talk with complete strangers about the dangers of online porn all the time)
• Volunteer with organizations whose mission aligns with your desire to fight. (We are always looking for help!)
• Put your money where your mouth is. If you don’t have time to actively fight, then donate to organizations you trust.

Dina Alexander is the founder and president of Educate and Empower Kids. See their amazing resources and program, 30 Days of Sex Talks, Empowering Your Child With Knowledge of Sexual Intimacy at www.educateempowerkids.org.