Many people struggle with being a good parent because they lack the skills and strategies to be intentional, such as learning how to discipline their children positively. Other issues might prevent parents from becoming more intentional, such as mental health or substance abuse issues.
Intentional parenting means paying attention to your child’s needs and feelings. It also means that you are aware of the signs that show whether your child is happy, sad, or angry. Good parenting requires a lot of work, but the effort is worth it to see how your children grow into responsible and well-adjusted adults.
Here are five recommendations that can help you become a more intentional parent:
- Learn how to discipline your child positively, without using punitive measures and punishment.
For example, parents should teach their children the right way to ask their parents or siblings for permission politely. It is wrong to ignore others by stepping on their toes, even if they are just children. Also, parents should nurture their child’s interests and respect cultural values.
Discipline is part of parenting, but there are some things that you need to know about. For example, parents should give children opportunities to express themselves, even if they make mistakes. It is important to allow children to understand the world around them and how they fit into it. As well as this, parents should not confuse discipline with abuse or neglect.
- Identify the signs of distress in your child and address them on time.
When a child is distressed, there might be many causes. It can be difficult to determine the root cause of the problem. However, suppose you notice signs of distress like bed-wetting, tearful or angry reactions, or even tantrums or withdrawal from social activities. In that case, you should assess the situation and address it immediately.
- Work on your relationship with your child:
The way your children see you and their relationship with you should be positive and strong. You should treat your children with respect, love, and care. Children also need to feel that they have a safe and secure relationship with their parents.
It is important to know whether or not you are a good parent. You should be able to identify the signs of distress and address them on time while also giving your children opportunities to express themselves and learn about the world around them. Your relationship with your child should be positive, strong, and comfortable while also allowing your children the freedom to voice their opinions and feelings.
- Be aware of your expectations and reactions:
Sometimes parents do not want to see their children being hurt, even if they understand that it is a part of growing up. However, the way you teach your children can be harmful because you might teach them to do what is expected of them rather than teach them how to be responsible for their actions. If this happens, children will become dependent on you and feel that they cannot make decisions without your approval.
- Embrace the differences in your children:
Some things will make each child unique, such as their talents and capabilities. When children grow up, they may want to pursue careers that reflect the path that they are on. However, if you pressure them to do what you want them to do or be who you want them to be, they might stop learning their skill or talent. By embracing the differences in your children and encouraging them to follow their dreams, you will allow them to be who they truly are.
