The life of a child is filled with wonder. Engage in your own ability to re-awaken the wonder that you’ve replaced with worry. Free yourself.
-Melinda Asztalos
Being a parent is a beautiful gift and a privilege. All parents hope that their child will grow up to be a happy and responsible adult. What many parents do not realize is that the manner in which a child is reared has a great deal to do with whether or not this wish becomes a reality. With the complex challenges of 21st century, it is more difficult to be an effective parent. Now, more than ever, children need the guidance of effective and positive parents. Too often ,we give children answers to remember rather than problems to solve.
1. Appreciate the value of play
It is a child’s work. Play is critical to all aspects of a child’s development, but is often overlooked as a valuable tool. Play can prevent discipline problems, offers a natural way for children to learn, and is essential in the formation of a positive relationship between parent and child.
2. Talk with and listen to your child
It’s more important for a child to be listened to, rather than talked to. Make eye contact and use gentle touch when communicating with your child. Give clear and consistent instructions.
3. Build your child's brain and body
Provide healthy meals and snacks and model good eating habits. Encourage exercise by being active with your child and limiting time in front of the television or playing video games. Provide opportunities to learn and explore by visiting the library, museums, zoos and other places of interest.
4. Be your child's first source of information
Encouraging your children to ask many questions , because it will be easier for them to ask question later. By answering questions from your child with honesty and openness, you can create a relationship of mutual trust and respect that can prevent child from developing unsafe habits.
5. Learn how child develops and know your unique child and cherish your child’s individuality
When it comes to your child, the real expert is you, the parent. Know all areas of your child’s development — physical, intellectual, social, emotional and moral — and remember there is nothing to be ashamed of if your child needs special help to progress at his or her own best rate.
6.Take care of yourself
If you are tired, ill or just worn out, you cannot be an effective parent. Eat healthy, get enough sleep, take occasional breaks from parenting if possible, and enlist the support of family, friends and neighbors when things seem overwhelming.
7. Make time for family activities
A sense of belonging is enhanced when families take time to engage in common activities such as having meals together and sharing tasks and responsibilities. Use family time to discuss need and feelings, to solve problems and promote cooperation.
8. Teach your child right from wrong
A child’s understanding of right and wrong develops slowly, from within. Actively teach your children a code of moral conduct and be a role model for them to develop their own moral guidelines.