ways to be a better parent

Ways to Be a Better Parent

How to Be a Better Parent. Let your kids get bored, don't solve all their problems.
21. Fess up when you blow it
This is the best way to show your child how and when she should apologize.
22. Live a little greener
Show your kids how easy it is to care for the environment. Waste less, recycle, reuse, and conserve each day. Spend an afternoon picking up trash around the neighborhood.
23. Always tell the truth
Its how you want your child to behave, right?
24. Kiss and hug your spouse in front of the kids
Your marriage is the only example your child has of what an intimate relationship looks, feels, and sounds like. So its your job to set a great standard.
25. Respect parenting differences
upport your spouses basic approach to raising kids unless its way out of line. Criticizing or arguing with your partner will do more harm to your marriage and your childs sense of security than if you accept standards that are different from your own.
26. Give appropriate praise
Instead of simply saying, Youre great, try to be specific about what your child did to deserve the positive feedback. You might say, Waiting until I was off the phone to ask for cookies was hard, and I really liked your patience.
27. Cheer the good stuff
When you notice your child doing something helpful or nice, let him know how you feel. Its a great way to reinforce good behavior so hes more likely to keep doing it.
28. Gossip about your kids
Fact: What we overhear is far more potent than what we are told directly. Make praise more effective by letting your child catch you whispering a compliment about him to Grandma, Dad, or even his teddy.
29. Give yourself a break
Hitting the drive-through when youre too tired to cook doesnt make you a bad parent.
30. Trust your mommy gut
No one knows your child better than you. Follow your instincts when it comes to his health and well-being. If you think somethings wrong, chances are youre right.