For a Successful Parenting Apply These Tips
- Treat your child with respect.
- Talk to him/her and ask questions.
- Be polite. Avoid nagging, yelling and hitting.
- If your child misbehaves in public, take him home.
- Avoid humiliating him. Maybe he is tired or hungry. Next time, plan the outing after he has had a nap and a snack.
- Be consistent. Don't be permissive one moment and strict the next.
- Make sure rules apply to everyone, even you.
- Make promises only when you're sure you can keep them.
- As parents, consult with each other and maintain a united front so that your child will not try to 'play off' one parent against the other.
- Encourage your child. Help build confidence. Say, 'I know you can do it.' Tell him, 'You worked really hard on that.'
- Avoid criticism. Don't compare one child to another.
- Express love. Say the words: 'I love you.' Give pats, hugs, and kisses.
- Take time for fun. Do things you both enjoy.
Remember 'HALT' (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired)
Feeling mad or cranky? Afraid you might hurt your child or do something rash? Whenever you feel out of sorts, think, 'HALT' (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired).
- HungryHave you missed breakfast? Is it mealtime, but you're running late? Stop what you're doing. Eat somethingan apple, a sandwich or the meal you have prepared.
- AngryAre you angry about something? Stop what you're doing. Think back to what made you angry. Maybe the car broke down. Maybe someone hurt your feelings. Accept your angry feelings, but don't act them out. Count to 10. Take a few deep breaths. Your angry feelings will pass, and things will get better.
- LonelyAre you lonely? Do you feel you spend all your time with your child and few grown-ups? Stop what you're doing. Call a friend. Take your child and visit a neighbour. Be with people who care about you.
- TiredAre you tired? Maybe you didn't sleep well last night. Maybe you have worked hard all day. Stop what you're doing. Put your child in the crib or another safe place. Sit with your feet up and relax for a few minutes. Or forget about chores and go to bed early.
Thinking 'HALT' can often pinpoint what's wrong. It can prevent you from doing something you will regret later. It reminds you to take care of yourself and do what is best for your child. |
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