Every parent wants to create a happy and loving home, a place where their children can feel safe, secure and at ease. A happy healthy home is essential to the healthy emotional development of a child. Here are ten tips to help you create an environment that children can thrive in.


1. Hug and kiss your children more often. Expressing physical affection is very important to healthy emotional development.


2. Create special moments on a regular basis. It does not have to be elaborate or expensive in order to be special. Even something as simple as serving dinner by candlelight transforms a normal routine activity into something special. Even peanut butter and jelly sandwiches taste better by candlelight.


3. Take time to relax and enjoy your child. Modern day living can get stressful and most of us are always pressed for time. But whenever possible take the time to relax and enjoy being with your children.


4. Cook or bake with your kids. Children of all ages love to get messy in the kitchen. It's a great way for them to learn a practical life skill and to create some special memories at the same time.


5. Share some special bonding time before bed. Read your child a story, sing him a lullaby, give him a soothing back rub or spend some time talking about his day.


6. Play board games together. Board games are great fun for the whole family. Choose from newer games or old favorites. Over time you can build up a special selection of games that your family enjoys.


7. Tell your children what you like about them and praise them for any effort or achievement. If you make this a regular habit, you children will also pick up this habit and will freely express praise and appreciation to others.


8. Listen to your children. Stop what you are doing and really listen when your child talks. Resist the urge to jump in with help, advice and criticism. Instead focus on letting your child feel heard. Take an interest in what is going on in your their lives and in their unique interests and concerns.


9. Share and read stories with your children. Bedtime is the perfect time to read good books to your kids. But don't stop there. Share funny, inspiring or even ordinary stories from your day and your childhood with them. Doing this will help them to see you as more human and approachable. And it will remind them that you were once a kid and faced the same concerns and worries that they have to deal with.


10. Have friends and family visit your home often by make your home open and inviting. This is a wonderful way to cement a child's sense of belonging.


These 10 ideas will get you started and on the right track to creating a happy and loving home. But why not take a moment and ask your child "What makes our home a happy place to be?" You may be surprised at the answer.