Raising kids is harder today than it was just a generation ago. I know it’s a cliché, but sometimes I really don’t know whether I’m coming or going. Do you sometimes feel the same way? Here’s a few tips that I have gathered that might help:
(1) Establish weekly together time and do something special with your kids, like going to the movies, taking a walk or going out for ice-cream.
(2) It’s okay to ask your kids where they are going and who they are going to be with. You should also make it your duty to know who your kid’s friends are (and their parents) and to become familiar with activities they participate in.
(3) Eat together often.
(4) Become a better listener.
(5) Ask and encourage questions.
(6) Seek input from your children about family issues.
(7) Model good behavior and character. By example, show your kids what it means to have compassion, to be honest, generous, etc.
(8) Take a good look at your own behavior.
(9) Reward good behavior.
(10) Create and enforce rules.
(11) Don’t underestimate your parenting abilities.
(12) Make sure you don’t neglect your own mental and physical health.
(13) Become involved in your child’s school, in your neighborhood and in your community.
(14) Always remember how fortunate you are to have children.
(15) Teach your kids to fish for themselves, rather than fishing for them.
(16) Respect your kids and demand respect from them.
(17) There’s no such thing as a perfect parent.
(18) All parents get frustrated from time to time and that’s okay.
(19) Show your kids that you love them by your words (“I love you”) and your actions (lots of hugs and kisses).
(20) Criticize your child’s behavior, not the child.
(21) Be consistent.
(22) Spend more time with your kids (do you really need to serve on yet another committee?).
(23) Never be afraid to ask for or seek out help.
(24) Keep a calm, business-like manner when dealing with misbehavior or when delivering punishment.
(25) Think of discipline as a way to teach because that’s what it is.
See also:
Discipline- All It Takes Is A Smile
How To Use Consequences To Change Behavior