Be more effective parent

Here are some tips for parenting that can help you feel more satisfied as a parent.

Increase your child's self-esteem

Children begin to develop their sense of identity when they are babies when they see themselves through the eyes of their parents. Your children absorb their tone of voice, their body language and all their expressions.

Avoid making loaded statements or using words as weapons. Choose your words carefully and be compassionate. Let your children know that everyone makes mistakes and still loves them, even when they don't love their behaviour.

Catch the children being good

Have you ever stopped to think how many times you react negatively to your children on a given day? You may find yourself criticizing much more often than flattering.

How would you feel with a boss who treated you with such negative guidance, even if it was well intentioned?Try to find something to praise every day. Your love, hugs and compliments can work wonders and are often enough rewards.

Set limits and be consistent with your discipline

Discipline is necessary in every home. The goal of the discipline is to help children choose acceptable behaviours and learn self-control.

Setting house rules helps children understand their expectations and develop self-control. Some rules may include: no TV until homework is done, and no punishing, insulting or teasing is allowed.

Be a good role model

Young children learn a lot about how to act by watching their parents. The younger they are, the more signs they take away.

Before you lash out or blow your upper part in front of your child, think about this: Is this how you want your child to behave when he is angry? Keep in mind that your children constantly monitor you. Treat your children the way you expect other people to treat you.

Make communication a priority

You cannot expect children to do everything simply because you, as a parent, "say so". They want and deserve explanations as much as adults do.

If we do not take the time to explain, children will begin to wonder about our values and motives and if they have any basis. Parents who reason with their children allow them to understand and learn without prejudice.

Be open to your child's suggestions too. Children who participate in decisions are more motivated to carry them out.