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Good Parenting: Intentional Actions Over Default Reactions
Effective parenting doesn’t happen by chance. Often, we default to the methods our parents used, which may include making empty threats or struggling to get our kids to listen — all of which can be counterproductive and damaging to our relationships with them. So, what can you do instead?
Start by implementing the good parenting tips outlined below. These simple, actionable strategies will help you become the mom you aspire to be, fostering a nurturing and supportive environment for your children.
Effective Parenting Tips
- Follow Through: Do what you say you will do.
- Prioritize Connection: Lead with a strong connection to your child.
- Validate Emotions: Acknowledge and validate their feelings.
- Welcome All Emotions: Allow space for all feelings to be expressed.
- Set Boundaries with Love: Maintain boundaries from a place of love.
- Stay Calm: Keep your composure in challenging moments.
- Value Punctuality: Be on time for commitments and activities.
- Repair Mistakes: Acknowledge and mend any mistakes you make.
- Embrace Humanity: Accept that you’re a human mom, not a perfect one.
- Release Guilt: Let go of any mom guilt you may carry.
- Be Present in Play: Engage in play without distractions from your phone.
- Enter Their World: Immerse yourself in your child’s interests and activities.
- Invite Them into Your World: Share your passions and experiences with them.
- Believe in Your Kids: Have faith in their abilities and potential.
- Trust Their Words: Take what your kids say seriously.
- Recognize Their Goodness: See and appreciate the positive traits in your children.
- Avoid Labels: Never label your kids as “bad” or “disrespectful.”
- Teach Intentional Lessons: Show your kids the lessons you want them to learn.
- Anticipate Challenges: Expect your kids to face difficulties.
- Encourage Independence: Avoid solving their challenges for them.
- Prepare for Challenges: Help them develop skills to tackle their challenges.
- Encourage Critical Thinking: Ask questions that prompt them to think independently.
- Collaborate Together: Take a cooperative approach to parenting.
- Respect All Ages: Treat your kids with respect, even in infancy.
- Be Present: Hold, cuddle, and be emotionally available for them.
- Comfort in Discomfort: Don’t leave your kids alone when they’re upset.
- Foster Exploration: Allow your kids to explore independently.
- Avoid Pressuring Experiences: Don’t force them into experiences you desire.
- Normalize Struggles: Acknowledge that it’s okay to struggle with challenges.
- Share Relatable Experiences: Offer stories that connect to their challenges.