Top 10 Tips For Every Parent With A Kid Under 12
1. Understand quality time
When your child wants to show you something, stop what you are doing an dpay attention. It's important to spend frequent, small amounts of time with your child doing things that you both enjoy.
2. Hug your kids
Give your child lots of physicial affection. Children often like hugs, cuddles, and holding hands.
3. Talk with your kids
Talk to your child about things they are interested in and talk about your day too.
4. Praise your child
Give your childs lots of descriptive praise when they do something that you would like to see more of. E.g. "Thank you for doing what I asked straight away".
5. Encourage kids to entertain themselves
Children are more likely to misbehave when they are bored so provide lots of indoor and outdoor activities for your child. E.g. Building blocks, colouring in, cardboard boxes, dress ups, cubby house, etc.
6. Lead by example
Teach your child new skills by first showing the skill yourself, then giving your child opportunities to learn the new skill. E.g. Speak politely to each other at home. Then, prompt your child to speak politely (e.g. say "please" or "thank you"), and praise your child for their efforts.
7. Set clear rules and consequences
Set clear limits on your child's behaviour. Sit down and have a family discussion on the rules in the home. Let your child know what the consequences will be if they break the rules.
8. Give clear instructions
If your child misbehaves, stay calm and give them a clear instruction to stop misbehaving and tell them what you would like them to do instead (e.g. "Stop fighting; play nicely with each other"). Praise your child if they stop. If they do not stop, follow through with an appropriate consequence.
9. Manage your expectation
Have realistic expectation. All children misbehave at times and it is inevitable that you will have some discipline hassles. Trying to be the perfect parent can set you up for frustration and disappointment.
10. Take care of yourself
Look after yourself. It is difficult to be a calm, relaxed parent f you are stressed, anxious, or depressed. Try to find time every week to let yourself unwind or do something that you enjoy.
