With the birth of a child you enter Parenthood. Every couple thrive hard to cope up with their new responsibility as a parent and to deliver their best in this regard. Effective parenting is the key for the success in moulding your kids behaviour and future. Children should be raised with utmost care and love. It is also very important to inculcate discipline and values in their upbringing.
Children always follow and reciprocate what their parents do. Your every word is engrossed by your child. To inculcate good values in your child you must lead by setting an example. You have to practice the behaviour that you want your kid to display.
Teach your children to say, “Thank you,” “Sorry” and “Please.” these words shows good manners and that will help them to build a humble relationship with others. It's okay to say "sorry" as a parent when you feel it’s your mistake. This gives them a view that it is ok to say ‘sorry’ when they are wrong.
Children during their earlier years need your time, love and affection more. The best gift you can give your child is your time. It is difficult in todays scenario as both the parents are working. But not impossible. You as parent have to manage and prioritise your time. It is very important to be present physically as well as mentally with your kids to supervise their daily activities. Spend quality time with children by doing things like helping them with homework, playing some games or having a family meal. Ask them about their day in school. Showing love through hugs, a tight morning cuddle or a quick pat at the back are indicators of expressing love. Make yourself available for your child in both joys and sorrows!
Your positive response towards your child helps them develop their self esteem. Appreciate your child’s little achievements, encourage them in what they want to do. This will make them capable, proud and independent. This will boost them to achieve more in life. Do not compare your child with others. This will make them loose confidence. Don’t react negatively with the children. They feel more criticized than loved. Show them love, reward them with kisses and hugs. They will behave automatically.
Observe your child’s behaviour at home and in school with their friends and teachers. Abnormalities in this regard might be due to some problems your child might be facing. Talk to them regarding the issues they are facing and try to solve that issue.
As kids grow, parents should tell them their rights and wrongs, instead of giving them excuses. As a parent it is your duty to do so. This will help to manage child’s behaviour during the growing years.
Enough space and freedom to be given to the kids during the growing years. This will teach kids to be more responsible for their actions. As a parent you should know where to draw a line between freedom and control. Failed to do so might lead to misbehaviour and disobedience. Being too strict or too soft will spoil them. Rules you set today will shape your child’s future!
Harsh discipline like hitting, slapping should be avoided. Because kids will feel it is ok to do so with others as well. Try talking calmly with your child. Make them understand the consequences of their wrongdoing or wrong behaviour with others. Children should get the right dose of discipline and love. Overdose of any of the things can hinder their progress.
Respect and motivate your child as an individual. Treat your kids with respect. Give importance to their views and opinions in the process of decision-making in the family. This will help them to take their own decisions when they grow up. They grow up as emotionally strong individuals. Make them feel safe, protected by your presence. Give them the assurance you are there for them in whatever the situation may be. Then kids will open up. They will share all the things with you.
A healthy conversation with your child will help to tune your relationship with your child. Communication is essential. If you are not available for your child to share their thoughts, you will not be able to guide them. Children who have good communication with their parents have better social and emotional development.
Don’t try to fulfil your dreams through your child. Encourage what interests your child and do not impose your wishes on them. Do not have unrealistic expectations from your children. Try to motivate them in doing activities which interests them. Be a flexible parent. If your child is changing, try to adjust yourself. Let them think themselves. Every child is different and unique. Give them space to discover their tiny universe. Listen to stimulate their curiosity and motivate them to think out of the box. Search for methods to deal with your child since every child is special.
Always remember that just like your child needs you, you need them too. They are your family and your support system. You might not have all the answers. You might need your children to help you. If they feel needed, they will grow up to be more responsible adults.
When they grow up, they should find a friend in you. However, do not be overfriendly and be aware when and where to draw a line. Building a strong bond with children is a very important aspect of parenting.
Adopt a balanced approach and try to raise children as happy and well-balanced individuals. You will be successful as a parent not just by raising successful children but raising them as good human beings.
Happy Parenting!