EFFECTIVE PARENTING TECHNIQUES

Raising children is one of the hardest and most fulfilling jobs in the world - and perhaps the one for which you might feel the least prepared, especially when new situations pop up at every stage of your child’s development. Here are some tried and trusted tips that may help you feel more fulfilled as a parent.

Catch kids being good

Have you ever stopped to think about how many times people (including you!) might react negatively to your kids in a given week? You may find yourself criticizing far more often than complimenting. How would you feel about a boss who treated you with that much negative guidance, even if it was well-intentioned? A more effective approach is to catch kids doing something right. For example, “You made your bed without being asked — thank-you, that’s really great!” Or: “I was watching you play with your sister - I love the way you were so patient.” These statements will do more to encourage good behavior over the long run than repeated scoldings. Make a point of finding something to praise every day. Soon you will find you are ‘growing’ more of the behavior you would like to see.