It's not easy being a parent but it's not rocket science either. All you have to do as parents is plan, think and discuss what actions you will take before the situations occur. Even a single parent can plan their actions ahead of time. The planning you do now will reap huge rewards in the years to come.
Let me give you 5 strategies to consider before becoming a parent.
1. Start Early
Start planning now, how you as parents are going to handle certain situations. Do not wait till the baby arrives to start planning your discipline strategies. Do not wait till your toddler is ready for school before discussing the type of education you desire for your child. But most important, do not wait till your bundle of joy is a teenager to develop your guidelines for the teen years. Early planning will save you from many disappointments and heartaches.
2. Be Consistent
As you begin to put your guidelines in to effect, you need to be consistent in your discipline applications and behavior expectations. If you or the other parent do not follow the same standards when enforcing the guidelines your child will use that against you. It is not uncommon for a child to drive a wedge between parents when parents do not agree on methods of punishment or reinforcement. So, discuss what your strategies will be and agree on your plan of action even before the baby arrives.
3. Be Clear
Be very clear and direct in your communication with your child. Your commands should be simple, specific and to the point. Your child should not have to guess what you are trying to get them to do. After giving your child a command, have him repeat it back to you to verify that he understood. If your child did not understand, it's your job to clarify it.
Likewise, it is your duty as parent to make sure your child knows your expectations. Let her know exactly what you expect in areas of social behavior, education and responsibilities. Do not assume your child knows what you expect her to do in certain situations. You need to take the time to make your expectations known to avoid confusion and misunderstandings.
4. Be Willing
You must be willing to be the parent. You must be willing to be hated. You must be willing to do what is right for your child not what is easy. You must be the adult. You can not be your child's buddy.
It will not be easy to say "no" to your child because you want to be liked. It is human nature to want others to like us but you must develop the courage to stand up to your child and do what is right. It's not easy, but it's necessary.
5. Be an Example
You must realize that your children will be watching YOU! They will learn many of their habits, beliefs and ideas from you and your actions. Take some time and examine your habits. Are your habits worth passing on to your children? Are your beliefs and ideas something you would want your children to copy?
It is your responsibility to prepare your child for life. Do not leave your child's success to chance. You must prepare, plan and take action to be a successful parent.
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