Another way to create positive interactions with your children is to build or create something together.  Perhaps you could use nuts and bolts, screws and screwdrivers with a peice of wood to create something fun together.  For the cooks out there, have your child help you make something from a mix such as cake, brownies, cookies, muffins, etc.  have the child help with pouring and stirring.  make it a fun activity whereby you know you are helping your child feel better about himself or herself because you're giving the child your full attention.

The child will also practice eye-hand coordination, linear thinking and patience.