by Gabby Bugwadia

Created on: April 15, 2010   Last Updated: April 16, 2010

The bond between the parent and child is special and unique. When this relationship is based on the strong foundation of trust, it blossoms and lasts a lifetime. How you as a parent relate to your child and the messages that you convey through your inter-actions, will be instrumental in building a trusting relationship. As forgiveness is a natural by-product of trust, it would be prudent for parents to recognize the importance of forgiveness in all their dealings with children.

Here are some distinct features that indicate how important is forgiveness to trust between parent and child

* The intricate working of forgiveness

Forgiveness is the core element in a trusting relationship. Prime time parents are well aware that no one is perfect; they know full well that anyone, including their own children can make mistakes.

Parents, who have raised their children well and instilled in them basic values, can be confident that their child could not have done a wrong deliberately or committed a mistake intentionally; it is this trust, which can motivate parents to forgive their child.

* Communication is vital

It is through effective communication that relationships blossom; this is so especially between the parent and child. Taking time and communicating the element of trust either by words or actions, to children is of prime importance. It conveys an understanding between the parent and the child and assures the child that he/she will be forgiven.

In such a scenario, your child will not fear facing new challenges in the future. Devoid of apprehensions of being judged, criticized or denied parental love, this child will not refrain from exploring new opportunities or making independent decisions-factors contributing to child development.

* Power of unconditional love

Unconditional love assures children that regardless of their shortcomings, faults or mistakes made, they will have their parent's love, care and attention on an ongoing basis. This understanding can equip children with a positive sense of identity; build their self-confidence and strengthen their sense of belonging. 

This does not imply that parents keep on manifesting forgiveness even when the child is habitually making wrong choices or repeatedly making the same mistakes. While tolerance of continual wrong-doing is not recommended, it would be in your child's best interest, to exercise caution and practice subtle restraint- rather than resort to direct confrontation or insensitive

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