Most of us wish we could be better parents, especially at the end of a hard day. No one is perfect, and you probably realize that this is true for both you and your children. However, here are 5 commitments that can make you a better parent:
Commit to Taking Care of Yourself
When you stress your body and emotions, you won't be able to be the parent you want to be. So, how to be a good parent includes getting:
- enough sleep
- exercise
- healthy food
- time to relax
Commit to Modeling Respect
Punishing behavior without understanding what caused it often backfires. Take the time to talk to your child to understand why they are misbehaving. Are they really disobeying, or are they tired, hungry, or upset about something else? Modeling respect helps children learn self-control.
Commit to Spending Time Together
Children grow up fast, and every stage has unique joys along with challenges. Commit to spending time every day with your child to enjoy their company. Take advantage of times you have your child's full attention, like car rides or during dinner. In addition, create a bedtime ritual that lets your child talk when they have your full attention.
Commit to Demonstrating a Love of Learning
Actions speak loudest. If you want your child to enjoy school and love reading, make sure they see you read and that you go to the library together. Play games that involve math, and have your child help you to count the number of socks in a drawer, or look up the name of the bird you saw in the park.
Commit to Being Positive
Sometimes it pays to choose your battles.Your child's room won't always be that messy and they probably won't actually wear that same green shirt five years from now. Stay positive and focus on what you love about your child.
Kids Konnect is committed to helping parents understand how to be a good parent. Our teachers make sharing information with parents a priority. What is your favorite commitment that you think makes you a better parent?