Whether you’re a seasoned vet or a brand new parent, there’s no guidebook on how to be a “good parent.” Every parent is just doing the best they can with the information they have. Sure, there are parenting books you and your partner can read, but nothing truly prepares you for parenting quite like the real deal. Thankfully, there are a few things all parents should know that can provide a bit of relief.
1. Kids Will Act Like Kids
Probably one of the easiest things to forget about kids is that they’re going to act like kids. You can’t expect a child to act as civil or proper as an adult. Fortunately, these opportunities where a child acts out is a great time to gently teach them life lessons. Immature behavior is completely normal for immature brains, which are what children have since the brain doesn’t fully develop well into our 20s. Be a supportive guide in their life.
2. Set Limits with Respect
What does it mean to set limits with respect? Well, many times limits are set for us through the use of cristicm. However, when you have a young child who is first learning about the world, you want them to be as open minded as possible. Just because they are a child doesn’t mean they don’t deserve the same level of respect you do when it comes to being critiqued.
3. Give your Child Lots of Play Time
Children need play time.This is how they learn to socialize, problem solve, and develop critical thinking skills. Plus, playing is just plain fun. Unstructured play time allows children to explore their world and interact with it. When they are unable to explore and interact with their surroundings, it could potentially stunt them developmentally and socially.
4. Know When to Talk and When to Listen
Children are surprisingly full of great ideas and sage wisdom if only we’d listen. It’s important for children to learn how to talk out their problems. Which is why you, as a parent, need to know when to talk and when to listen. It’s easy to jump in and solve all their problems for them, especially when you love them. However, you’re doing more harm than good when you don’t practice active listening.
Remember that you and your partner are a team when it comes to raising your children. But, sometimes there are going to be bumps along the way. Parents don’t always see eye to eye and sometimes even have completely different parenting styles. If you and your partner are struggling with parenting, call us today to find out how couple and family therapy can help you both be the best parents you can be.