Happy kids? Here's how
Happy kids? Here's how
August 17, 2015By First For Women
Somebody once said that parenting is one of the toughest jobs in the world and one for which you get the least training. Truer words were never spoken. Raising healthy and happy children in an uncertain world is a demanding and difficult task. Because we know that every parent needs a little help we pulled together a list of our favourite pieces of parenting advice. We trust that they will inspire and guide you!
Love your partner
Let's start with the family unit. An unhappy marriage or partnership does not create the safe and secure environment that children need to thrive. Relationship issues also make you unhappy, which leads us to our next point...
Look after your mental health
Happy parents make happy kids. It is as simple as that. And remember that your child is very sensitive to your moods. Don't make your bad day your kid's problem.
Nobody is perfect
Accept that you will never be the perfect parent and that you will make mistakes. Love your child and do your very best it is good enough.
Love them
Children need oodles of unconditional love and consistent attention. Show your love for them with actions and words. And don't forget physical affection hugs, kisses and all that good stuff.
Discipline them
Spare the rod and spoil the child. Discipline teaches children self-control, responsibility and self-discipline. Remember that discipline has to be consistent. The rules are the same every day, no matter how tired you are.
Spend time with them
Be sure to give your children all the quality time they need. And by quality we mean time when you can really listen and connect... time devoted to nothing else in the world but them.
Let them play
Unstructured play is essential to your child's development. Play teaches children social skills, helps them discover their own unique talents and hones their problem solving skills. It also nurtures creativity and exercises little imaginations.
Build their self-esteem
This is so important. If you do one thing for your child you should nurture their self-esteem. It is one of the best tools that you can equip them with to face the challenges of our demanding world.
Final word
Nobody is born a good mother, divinely equipped with the skills and knowledge she needs to raise children. Don't ever be afraid to ask for help. Read books, chat to friends and attend parenting workshops. The power to be an awesome mother is in your hands!
"We may not be able to prepare the future for our children, but we can at least prepare our children for the future."
Franklin D. Roosevelt
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