Family Matters ~ Cheryl

I have taken some excerpts from an article from Kids Health that gives 9 steps to more effective parenting & have added my own thoughts, which I will share the last three today. Hopefully these will help us to tackle our child raising responsibilities & enjoy our children even more. The last 2 weeks we talked about steps 1-6.
#1.Nuture your child’s self esteem.
#2. Catch your child being good.
#3. Set limits & be consistent with your discipline.
#4. Make time for your children.
#5. Make communication a priority.
#6. Be a good role model.

#7. Be flexible & willing to adjust. If you find you are frequently feeling “let down” by your child’s behavior, it may be because you are having unrealistic expectations of them. Be sure you are not expecting more than they are physically or mentally capable of giving.
Also, as your child changes, you will gradually have to change your parenting style. Chances are, what works for your child now, won’t work in a year or two.

#8. Show that your love is unconditional. As a parent, you are responsible for correcting and guiding your child. But, the way you express your correction will make all the difference in how the child receives it. Avoid blaming, criticizing, or fault finding, which undermines self -esteem, and can lead to resentment. Be sure that your expectations are clear, but that they know they are loved even when they make mistakes.

#9. Be aware of your own needs and limitations as a parent. Face it! None of us are perfect parents. We all have strengths and weaknesses. You do not have to have all the answers in order to be considered a good parent. Be willing to admit that. A lot of parents don’t understand that one of the best things they can do for their children is to do things that make you happy as a person and as a couple. Focusing on your own needs at times does not make you selfish. If we are miserable people, we will likely be miserable parents. So take time to care about your own well being.