The concept of effective parenting, or simply parenting in general covers a lot of ground. However, everyone can probably agree that it presents challenges for every parent. There are many different schools of thought about this. Even so, there seems to be some agreement that certain techniques tend to be more successful than others. We will address a few of them here.
Spend time with your children
There is not enough that can be said about the importance of spending quality time with your kids. Children who get attention from their parents are less likely to act out in negative ways to obtain that nurturance. These positive experiences will last a lifetime.
Boost your child’s self-image
Children do best when they feel capable and strong. Show them that you are proud of them. Praising
their accomplishments can help achieve this goal. Also, helping your child learn to do things will build their self-esteem, making them feel good about themselves and helping them become more self-reliant.
Be a good role model
Kids learn a lot about how to act by watching their parents. By acting the way you would like your
child to act when they grow up, you are using effective parenting techniques. With this, you increase the likelihood of them learning appropriate behavior. Also, show your child as much respect as you would want them to give you. You can also take care of yourself to avoid burnout.
Reinforce good behavior
Taking notice when your child has done something good is effective parenting. It is best when you comment upon the positive behavior without being prompted. Remember that you want to praise the process, rather than the result. Positive attention is the best reward, but sometimes other rewards can be effective, too.
Unconditional love
Your child should always know that your love is not determined by their behavior alone. When you need to discipline your child, it is ideal that you express yourself in a manner that avoids blame, criticism, as well as fault-finding. Do your best to make decisions in the best interest of your child and show them your love. Let them know you will always be there for them no matter what.
Consistency
There is nothing more important than setting limits for behavior and being consistent with those limits. Discipline is, without a doubt, a part of effective parenting. It helps children learn acceptable behavior and self-control. Be kind and firm when providing these boundaries.
Communication
It is important for parents to explain the rationale for their decisions and rules at times. Reasoning
with your children helps them to understand and learn. Talk to your child and also listen to them
carefully. Sometimes, these conversations will help you get to the root of their misbehavior.
Flexibility
As children grow and mature, our parenting techniques may need adjustment. What works for your
child now may not work a few years from now.
This, of course, is a very simplified list and there are many other techniques that can be very useful for
different children.
Our Jones-Wood Psychological Associates, Inc. clinicians that can help with parenting issues are:
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