Parenting: A Skillful and Joyful Process
By Varsha
When I was the head of a preschool, I met many different children between the ages of 2 and 5, and I enjoyed spending time with all of them. However, managing these energetic preschoolers is very tough for teachers.
Parents have different ideas when it comes to raising their kids, and they sometimes become overwhelmed and confused. I was a part of many discussion sessions between parents, teachers and experts about parenting.
A few parenting tips that were discussed in our session are as follows:
At school, there’s a specific schedule children follow, which requires routine and discipline. They have prayer, exercise, poems, writing, games, etc. Kids must follow instructions at school. They also do all of these activities independently, i.e. they are self-sufficient. But at home, they may behave differently. They may demand you to help them. Like school, you should also have some rules in your home, which all family members must follow. Kids must also get up early in the morning, do proper morning activities, eat breakfast at the dining table, etc.
Children are capable of many things, and they like encouragement! Try giving positive instructions (such as “please do this”) instead of negative instructions (“please don’t do this”) to your child. He/she will be more responsive.
Give your child simple tasks. Ask them to get dressed, to put on shoes, to eat their meals. Children always want to do it for themselves, so don’t discourage them. Ask them to plant trees, to help their grandparents, to help with kitchen work. Make your child feel like they can do things, and are a responsible member of the family.
Teach your child to use electronic devices carefully. Set a specific time limit for electronics, and make sure their chores are completed before he/she is able to use them.
Give your child structural choices - simple ones, like what to wear or what to play. Maybe give them choices A and B. This trick is usually very effective!
Use rewards and stickers for completing simple tasks to develop your child’s self-respect. Don’t offer them prizes every day, as they should be reserved.
Avoid using "if" when encouraging your child to do something. (“If you do this, then you can play,” etc.) This phrasing is not appealing to children, as it doesn’t encourage them in an effective way.
Encourage your child to share when he/she is with friends. If they fight with one another, set a five minute time-out for each kid. This helps them learn the value of sharing and friendship.
Be a good role model. Your kids learn how to behave from their parents, so lead by example. Respect, friendliness, honesty, kindness are traits your child will learn from you only.
Show how your love for them is unconditional. Create a strong bond with your child by making memories with him/her.
Additional tips for parenting:
Read to your child for 15 minutes each night.
Play with your child for 10 minutes each night.
Talk with your child for 20 minutes a day (with social media off).
Adopt a positive attitude toward your child and praise him/her frequently.
Give your child a nutritious diet.
