Every parent hopes that their parenting experience will always be positive and rewarding. Every parent, however, also faces some challenging times when their experience might feel a little negative. In those times, it is most important to rely on advice from the experts. In this article we will discuss some of that advice, and provide you with some valuable parenting tips.
When you say you're going to do something, like a punishment, do NOT waiver. The second you give in and revoke a punishment your child will know you can be broken. If you stick to what you say then your warnings will be heeded as the child will know you go through with your word.
A great parenting tip is to be aware of how your actions can influence your child. If you curse a lot at home, don't be surprised if your child gets suspended or sent home from school for bad behavior. Always try to set a good example for your child.
If you are bringing home a newborn, wash your hands often. Ask everyone else who holds the baby to do the same. Newborn babies have not yet developed their immune system. They can easily catch many illnesses because of their weakened state. You can help by making sure that those who handle them are as germ free as possible.
If you are the parent of a sick toddler who is struggling while you attempt to give them their medicine, try mixing the dose with chocolate syrup. This will make the medicine seem like a treat instead of a punishment. If you are out of chocolate syrup, try refrigerating the medication to mask its taste.
Respect your child's privacy. This is especially important in the teen years. If your child knows that you respect them, they will be more likely to come to you with problems. A child also needs to feel a sense of security in knowing that some matters don't have to be shared.
In order to teach a child how to behave like he needs to. You need to be persistent with your punishments. If you say that there is going to be a consequence for a particular action, it is important to follow through with what you said. Children learn quickly when their parents are bluffing and when they mean what they say.
Taking the time to play with your child is not only going to be good for you, it is going to be good for them as well. It will develop strong communication skills between the two of you that you are going to appreciate for very many years in the future.
Never yell at your children. It is best to talk to them with a calm voice, no matter how bad they are being. The more upset you get, the more upset they will get and things will spiral out of control very quickly. Keep your calm as much as possible.
An important aspect of parenting is to recognize your child as an individual with his or her own personality. Your children may have different interests than what you envisioned. Allowing your children to express themselves and grow into the person they want to be is vital to maintaining a positive relationship.
You can make your disciplinary efforts far more effective, by trying to shift the focus of your words from only highlighting the child's wrongdoing to using positive language. Children who are repeatedly criticized, have a natural tendency to resist discipline, which in turn, leads to increased instances of fits, discipline problems and poor conduct.
If you are experiencing post-partum depression or the "baby blues," try signing up for a baby-and-me class. The specific class is really unimportant. It is the connections you will make with other mothers who are going through the same life changes that can be very comforting. A class will also help you join a network of moms who can be a much needed support system and lessen your feelings of depression.
Be consistent about naptimes and bedtimes to help your days run smoothly. Kids thrive on routine, and skimping on the amount of sleep they get can impact their health and overall well-being. Check with your pediatrician to see how much sleep each of your children needs, and make it a priority to stick to a regular schedule as much as possible.
Having teens can be hard, but taking the time to talk with them, and listen to them, will have long lasting positive results. Let them know that you love them no matter what, and try to identify with what they are experiencing. Too often we parents gloss over their feelings to lay down the law, when a little understanding and a good heart-to-heart can make all the difference.
In this article we have discussed some of the most recommended parenting advice. This is the advice of parents, the true experts in raising children. Every family can face a struggle from time to time, and every parent feels confused about their choices once in awhile. Turn to this advice whenever you need a little help.