Becoming a better parent is a matter of strengthening your bond with your child, and doing what is best for them. You can do that by doing things today, tomorrow, and every day thereafter. Being a better parent sometimes takes only a few little adjustments in how you interact with your kids. The following are some tips for being a better parent starting today:
Praise Your Child
The fact of the matter is that we may see our child sharing, or being sweet, and we may take it for granted. It is not important to make a show of praise, but help your child feel significant, and recognize when they do good, and they will continue to do so. So, next time they share a toy, or do something kind, take a second to say, “That was great. Thanks for doing that.” And, then do something else. These small gifts of praise are one important ways to help your child establish a core identity, a sense of them self as a person who feels good when they are good to others.
Stop Arguing
When your child is upset because they are set on doing something that does not make sense logically, like eating a cookie right before dinner, arguing with them does not good. It makes them more upset, and it makes you feel like an ineffective parent. Instead, change the situation, distract yourself or your child. Sometimes you just need a distraction so you can calm down. So, walk in another room, or do something that distracts you or your child until the situation cools off.
Read bedtime stories as often as possible.
Did you know that reading to your child can soothe their nerves and calm their anxiety so that they sleep better? Reading to your child can help them to feel safe and secure, but it is also a great way to spend time with your child every day. So, take the time to read to your child each night before they go to bed. If the typical children’s stories are boring you to death, try reading a chapter a night of a longer, more in depth book.
Do less.
If you want to be a better parent, then let your family do a little less. It is fun to be involved in a million activities, but it can also be a recipe for meltdown both physically and emotionally. So, instead of being overly busy with those enriching activities, take some time to spend with your family doing nothing. You will get to know your kids better, and you will be a better parent.
Be more physically affectionate.
Children respond to physical affection, whether it is a big hug, a pat on the back, or a tousle of the hair, a little bit of touching can go along way to calm nerves, help someone feel loved, accepted, and needed. A casual physical gestures expresses love far better than words.
If you can employ these five simple things into your daily routine, you will see that your children will be happier, you will be happier, and the result will be that you are a better parent. Sometimes being a better parent is a matter of putting things in perspective, and taking time out for yourself and your family.
Parenting viewpoints from parents in the trenches, because parenting doesn’t come with a manual. In addition to