Advice For Every Parent: 7 Best Practices For Good Parental Behavior
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Raising a child is one of the most profound and fulfilling experiences. However, there is no denying that it can be challenging. There may be exciting moments when you are proud of your parenting skills, and there may be equally disappointing moments that make you question your role as a good parent. The truth is that children do not come with a parenting handbook. Each child is different, even within the same family, so your parenting practices may have to be different compared to others. Although not black and white, a few best practices should not be compromised — these fall under good parental behavior, and they are crucial.
We’ve listed many things that every parent is recommended to follow, simply because it shapes your child into good adults and possibly, good parents in their turn. Read on to know more (1):
1. The Kids Are Watching: Be A Good Role Model
It’s easy for us, as parents, to tell our children what to do. But we often forget that a kid best learns through imitation. As a parent, you are their role model and figure of authority. So, it is only natural for them to mimic your attitude and behavior. Practice what you preach; for example — if you constantly reprimand your child for littering but end up being a litterbug yourself, the chances are that they won’t take you seriously. Instead, be mindful of how you dispose of waste, so they may watch and learn (2).
2. Make Time For Your Little Ones
In today’s fast-paced world, getting a bit of a breather for ourselves can be tricky, let alone spending quality time with our children. However, to your child, your busy work schedule, that client call, or a deadline would not matter; they wouldn’t even understand it. All that would matter to them is the precious time they spend with you. So, make time for your child. Wake up earlier so you can have breakfast with them. Squeeze in family time during the weekends and do something fun with your child. You could also do something as simple as taking a walk with them after dinner where you can discuss your day and theirs (3).
3. Stop Trying To Fix Everything
Understandably, you want to swing in and rescue them from every uncomfortable or conflicting situation as a parent. However, it is also essential to give them the benefit of the doubt. Let them try to fix things on their own; give them the space to find their solutions. Instead of rushing to fix a problem, encourage them to think of different solutions. Help them question their decisions and find different ways to navigate through problems. In doing so, you will teach your child to be resilient and self-reliant. Your child will also be better at decision-making (4).
4. Communication Is Key
We can’t stress enough the importance of maintaining good communication with your child. They should be in a position to have light conversations and difficult ones. And this can only happen if you keep the channels of communication open and let them know that you will understand and be willing to hear them out. Many children are afraid to talk to their parents for fear of a bad reaction. If such is the case, your child will refrain from reaching out to you when they genuinely need your help.
Similarly, when you set ground rules for your child, explain why you are setting these rules. Don’t just say “because I said so”. Also, make your expectations clear so both you and your child are on the same page. There is clarity on the priorities from their side and yours (5).
5. Treat Them With Respect
As adults, we expect children to respect us. But what we fail to see is that they too expect to be respected. And their expectations are justified. They are entitled to the same courtesies that you extend to others. They must be treated kindly and spoken to politely. Do not belittle or shun them just because they are much younger than you. And always remember that by respecting them, you will also be teaching them to respect you (6).
6. Set Reasonable Limits, Practice Discipline
In recent times, discipline has gotten a bad rap. And this is because when parents are asked to discipline their children, they take it to extremes. Discipline is necessary because it teaches your child responsible behaviors, self-control, and organization. By setting reasonable limits, you will guide your child through what is right and wrong. Setting reasonable limits also teaches them that actions have consequences (7).
7. Don’t Forget To Take Care Of Yourself
We can all agree that parenting requires you to be selfless more often than not. We may find ourselves in several situations where we put our child’s needs before our own. Altruism and sacrifice are probably the two most beautiful traits of parents, both rewarding in their way. But, it would be best if you remembered to take care of yourself as well.
Focus on areas you are struggling with, and don’t give up on the things that bring you happiness and joy. Indulge in the things you love, and make time for yourself — you deserve it! And remember that this does not make you selfish, so do not go on a guilt trip. Instead, accept it as a way of self-love, which is one of the most important things you can do for yourself (8).
As a parent, you are the most important person in your child’s life. Through your guidance, nurturing, and support, your child will soon be ready to face the world on their own. These best practices can help make your parenting journey a lot more fulfilling. Do you have any advice on parental behavior? Share them with us in the comments below!
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