How to Be a Better Parent

There are probably a million ways to be a better parent. I’m sure each of us can use a few tips. Here are some that have been batting around in my head. I hope they are useful to you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• parenting books
• parenting videos
• parenting advice

1. Find the time, make the time and do the time. Your children need your attention and your time. Yes, it’s that simple.
2. Strive to be fair to each one of your children. If you use enthusiasm for your son when he plays soccer, use the same enthusiasm for your daughter’s ballet class. Do not compare your children to each other and never speak about them to someone in their presences as if they aren’t there.
3. Always be learning more about parenting and working on your skills. Each step your child takes down life’s path places him/her in a new world. Recognize that you can always get better at your ‘job’ of being a parent.
4. Work on your relationship with your spouse. Show your affection for each other and fight fairly. When mom and dad are happy together, the rest of the house is happy too.
5. Make the dinner table a fun and happy place to be with good healthy food and smiles. Do not use this time to discipline. If something comes up, finish the discussion later. Share something positive that happened to you that day and ask your children to share something positive too.
6. Be nurturing with your children. Hugs and kisses aren’t just for babies.
7. Develop your relationship with your children as people. Try to see him/her as the person he/she is becoming and show that you find him/her interesting.
8. Encourage your child to become involved in activities outside of your home. Be willing to drive and try not to complain about gas prices.
9. While you need to be firm with your discipline, using positive and preventive measures always works better then being reactive. Count back from 10 before speaking if ever you feel the need.
10. Take a good look at how you treat your parents. You should keep in mine that you are role-modeling for your kids future relationship with you.