Effective parenting, as all other habits, attitudes and behavior stereotypes could be researched as a topic, implemented and developed in time. Raising kids is a tough job including much more than just feeding, protecting and teaching the basic rules of life. The tricky part is to manage to help your child become a good, responsible and self-assured person – a task that is as equally fulfilling and rewarding for every parent. Here are six child-raising tips that can help you be a more effective, understanding and happy parent.
Train their self-esteem
Children begin to develop their sense of self as babies when they see themselves through your eyes. Your words, actions, your tone of voice and body language will be absorbed by them and will train their self esteem. Choose your words and expressions very carefully, avoiding comparisons with another child – this will make your kid feel worthless. Let your little boy or girl do things as independently as possible and praise them for every accomplishment. They will start feeling strong and capable. And another essential – let them know your love for them won’t disappear when they do a bad thing.
Treat them with more positive guidance
Often parents are far more criticizing than they should be, especially in stressed days and situations. Of course, you always catch them being bad, but try to catch them when they are good, too. Encourage them to do what you’ve told them to do by saying “You’ve washed your teeth – good job!” and by rewarding them for their quietness and patience while being in the grocery shop. Don’t be materialistic in your rewards – hugs and compliments are usually most effective.
Discipline
Set up your rules and be consistent. Don’t let the children know you are not decisive and make sure they realize well who the boss is. House rules will help them understand and accept your expectations and develop self-control. This step is very important because only rules, limits and consequences respectively, will make them responsible adults.
Be the best role model
You are not perfect, so simply try the best you can do to show them how to act and react in different situations. And the younger they are, the more they will learn from you. So, treat them the way you expect them to treat you.
Communication
Don’t expect your kids to do everything you have told them to do. When they ask you why, don’t say “Because I say so.” Explain them everything, so they can understand your motives and values. It’s always better to reason with them and make your expectations clear. Otherwise, you will only confuse them. Be open to suggestions and let your kids take part in discussions and decisions – this way they will feel motivated and worthy.
Be flexible
Don’t think your children will grow and develop as you have always expected. Parents who think in “should manner” are not very successful because every child is a person and has individuality. As your child grows and changes, you may feel uncomfortable because you will have to adjust your parenting style. If you find yourself always being “let down” and saying “no” to your child, you just probably have unrealistic expectations.
