Parenting is one of the most difficult jobs in the world. While it can certainly be rewarding, it can also be hard to know exactly what you’re doing. Kids think that parents hold all the answers, when really, many don’t really know what they are doing and wing it from day to day. Winging it can work (and it certainly worked with many of the adults around today), but having a few hacks in place can help you to ensure that your kids grow up healthy and happy.
1. Routines Are Valuable
Giving your kids routines can be valuable. It’s very rare that a routine doesn’t work. This is because your kids need routines to feel safe and secure – even though they may resist them at times. You don’t need to be rigid with the routine, but you should be vigilant when it comes to things like bedtime, breakfast, and getting ready the next day. Try to keep a consistent bedtime at least, as this will do wonders for their physical and emotional health, as well as how they perform at school.
2. Always Stick To Your Word (No Matter What)
Making promises as a parent is something you may not think twice about to keep your kids quiet, but you should always stick to your promises. The most important promises are promises of quality time. You should also stick to your word when it comes to disciplinary action. Don’t make empty threats and not follow them through, or your kids will get an idea of how far they can push you. If you say you’re going to take them home if they continue to misbehave, then make sure you do it.
3. Learn To Communicate Effectively
Effective communication is key. You will pass on these skills to your kids. If your child is misbehaving, make sure you tell them exactly why what they are doing is not ok. Never take a passive aggressive approach with your child, or scream at them without giving them a good reason of why you’re upset. Make sure you choose your words carefully too, ‘you always misbehave!’ is not a good way to tell your child that what they are doing is not ok. Instead, saying, ‘it makes me feel sad when you don’t listen to what I ask you to do’ is a better example.
If your child flushes something down the toilet, for example, find a plumber and then explain to them why they should never do this. You may want to discipline them too, but make sure you do so in a way that fits what they have done. There’s no need to scream and shout. Keeping your emotions in check is a must.
4. Eat One Meal A Day Together Minimum
Eating one meal together as a family can have huge benefits on your child’s ability to learn, and even their ability to avoid giving in to peer pressure!
5. Get Everybody Involved In Household Chores
It doesn’t matter how young your kids are – get them involved in the chores. They will grow up with a healthy sense of wanting to help, rather than wanting to stay idle.
