Today’s Most Important and Positive Tips for Parents

Parenting can sometimes feel like navigating a winding road, full of unexpected twists and turns. It doesn’t matter what age your child is, these tips for parents will help you feel more confident and able to handle just about anything that comes your way. 

familyingrassFamily of four sitting in the long grass with their poodle dog.

#1. Tips for Parents - Set Aside Quality Time

It’s so easy to get caught up in your work, errands and other daily tasks these days. So don't forget to include some quality time with your kids.

Quality time doesn’t always mean elaborate outings or planned activities. It can just be something small like playing a game together, talking about their day or gathering at the table together as a family. 

Quick Tip: Set aside at least 15 minutes each day to engage in an activity that your child enjoys.

Just by reading a book together or going for a walk, you are creating lasting memories and deepening your connection.

#2. Tip for Parents - Encourage Open Communication

It's necessary to practice open communication with your kids. You are helping them to feel comfortable talking about their thoughts and feelings whether they are positive or negative.

By doing this they are more likely to develop good relationships and a positive sense of self-worth. Listen without judgment and offer your support when they need it. 

Quick Tip: Create a “safe space” for family discussions, where everyone can speak openly without fear of criticism.

This could be a regular family meeting or a designated time each day when you check in with each other.

#3. Tips for Parents - Lead By Example

You need to be aware of your own behaviour and lead by example. Remember, your actions will speak louder than words. 

girlwithheadonhandYoung girl is leaning against a rope with her head on it. She looks sad.

Quick Tip: Could you be setting a better example after considering your own habits and behaviours.

For example; Don't be disrespectful towards them or others, yet expect them to respect you.

Do the right thing and help others in need, volunteer etc. You will be teaching your child to be kind and responsible.

There are many things you can do to show your child that they can be a good person.

#4. Tip - Promote Independence

Helping your child develop independence is another one of those more important tips for parents. Allow your kids to solve their own problems rather than doing it for them, even though it may be hard sometimes. 

Start by giving your child age-appropriate responsibilities. For younger children, this might mean helping with chores or choosing their own clothes.

Whereas, older kids, need to start making decisions for themselves about how to spend their time or what extracurricular activities to participate in. They will learn important life skills when they learn to be confident. 

Quick Tip: When your child accomplishes something on their own, no matter how small or even if they don’t get it right the first time, make sure to celebrate it.

You will be helping them feel better about themselves, even if it's just for at least trying. 

#5. Tip - Create a Healthy Lifestyle

Physical and mental well-being are foundational to your child’s overall development. Be sure that your child gets a balanced diet, regular exercise, and has plenty of sleep that follows a consistent schedule.

By implementing these healthy lifestyle choices you are impacting their mood, energy level and academic performance. 

Help them to reduce any stress they may have by including creative hobbies that they are interested in. You could go for a walk together in nature or do some mindfulness exercises. 

Quick Tip: Involve your kids in meal planning and preparation, teaching them healthy eating habits.

Make exercise fun family activities by going for bike rides, hiking, or playing sports together.

#6. Tip - Teach Empathy & Compassion

It’s more important than ever to teach your kids about compassion & empathy in todays world. 

girlholdingupheadFemale toddler sitting at a table with her head in her hand and looking pretty.

When your child is empathetic they are more likely build healthy relationships and do positive things for their community.

Talk about how important it is to be kind to others and get them involved in community service activities with you, in this way you are helping them to develop their empathy.

Quick Tip: Also use stories, whether from books, movies, or real life, as opportunities to discuss empathy.

Ask your child how they think the characters feel and what they might do to help someone in a similar situation.

#7. Tip - Be Consistent with Discipline

Consistency in discipline helps children understand expectations and boundaries. Help your kids feel safe as they are dealing with life and provide a sense of security for them.

Make sure that the rules you set are age-appropriate and then explain to them the reasons behind them.

Consistency doesn’t mean being overly strict; it’s about being fair and predictable in your approach. Offer praise, use positive reinforcement and give them rewards for good behaviour. 

Quick Tip: Instead of focusing solely on punishment for misbehavior, emphasize the positive behaviours you want to see. This will boost your child’s self-esteem and as well they may be better behaved.

#8. Tip - Stay Involved in Your Child’s Education

From the preschool years right up to the end of high school, you need to be as much involved in their academic life as you can, as it may significantly influence their success.

Show any kind of interest in your child’s education that you can, attend parent-teacher meetings and support any challenges they may face. By staying involved you are teaching them the importance of education. 

Quick Tip: Create a designated study space at home and establish a routine for homework and study time.

#9. Tip - Celebrate Their Individuality

Every child is unique, with their own strengths, interests, and personality. Encourage and support them in any way you can, love and accept them for who they are, including embracing their quirks.

Recognize that your child’s path may be different from others, and that’s okay. So it’s important that you celebrate each of our children separately, helping them to become more confident in themselves.

Quick Tip: Know what your child’s interests are, whether it’s a hobby, sport or some creative pursuit, show them how much you care about what they do.  

familywalkingonbeachFamily of four happily walking on the beach with their small dog.

Parenting is beautiful, challenging, and deeply rewarding. You don’t have to be perfect, just be present, patent and loving.

There’s no guarantee, but these tips for parents will be helpful in guiding you to feel more confident in your ability to raise well-rounded children. So be kind to yourself and cherish every moment you have with your kids.

After all, they grow up so fast, and these years are precious.

Cheerio!