With the start of a new year upon us, it is time to reflect on all that went on during the year. Our parenting style, our children behaviour and many more.
Was our parenting style as effective as we hoped? Did our children behave in ways we expected them to behave? Did we spend quality time with our children?
These are just some of the many important questions that we parents can ask ourselves. If you feel that you will like to make some changes in the new year, the following useful parenting tips can help you get started.
1. Listen more
It’s not likely that you can multitask. Parents who claim they can do different things and at the same time focus on what their child is saying, may be lying to themselves.
It is much better to stop whatever you are doing when your children need you. Give them your utmost attention, listen to what they have to say and forget about everything else.
When parents listen well to their children, they not only make them more confident speakers, they make them better listeners, too.
2. Stay optimistic
No electricity, increase in school fees, every day traffic, rising cost of living are just some of the many issues that Nigerian parents may face.
However, no matter how bleak the future looks, parents should always stay optimistic. We should never ever give up hope because our children are counting on us.
3. Be a role model
Parents are a child’s first teachers and role models.
Children learn how to behave by seeing how their mothers and fathers behave and by following their example. It is one thing to talk and it is another to act. Let your words model your actions.
Being a positive role model is one of the most important and rewarding things you can do for your child.
4. Take more photos
Our children are only young once and taking pictures allows us relive precious moments. Always have a camera on hand to capture those candid moments.
Live life and capture as much as you can!
5. Read more with your children
Reading to children has many benefits. For example reading is one of the best ways to develop bonds with your children and children who are exposed to reading are much more likely to choose books over video games, television, and other forms of entertainment as they grow older.
Even if you have never read to your child, its not too late to start. You can spend 10 minutes at night, reading a story book to your child. Its is not the amount of time we spend, but the quality of time spent.
“A child who has been read to will want to learn to read herself. She will want to do what she sees her parents doing. But if a child never sees anyone pick up a book, she isn’t going to have that desire.”
6. Play with your children more
Don’t underestimate the value of play. Playing with your children will help them grow emotionally.
Because time is precious to both you and your child, your willingness to give your time to him or her sends a message that; ‘You are important’.
Also as the old adage goes, “The more you put into it, the more you’ll get out of it.” The more time you spend with your children, the more you will be able to influence them positively.
7. Always be grateful
Always, always be grateful for the opportunity you have to be a parent.
Even when your children are scattering the house or misbehaving, never lose sight of how lucky you are to have your kids. A heart of gratitude will make you both a better parent and better equipped to deal with the challenges of parenting.
We wish you a happy and prosperous New Year!
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