ParentWithPassion.com

It is possible to have fun parenting and I am going to give you seven special tips to help you have more fun as a parent:

Secret number one is to develop emotional mastery. That means being non-reactive to our children when they rub us up the wrong way. You see, when we are angry we cannot think clearly or see the situation clearly. We actually become irrational and start to make bad decisions and do things that we will later on regret. But once we master our emotions we will make great choices and our kids will be happier as a result.

Secret number two is to ask questions when your child misbehaves. When kids misbehave there is a reason behind it. It is your job to find out why they are doing something so you can fix the problem. Things you might like to ask are: Why is he doing that? Where did that come from? What is the goal of that behaviour? When we figure out the reasons behind the behaviours, we are half way to solving the problems.

Secret number three is to have some strategies ready to use, just like a workman has tool box. One example of something I use with my kids is “choices”. When I give my child two choices, both of which I am happy about, my kids are always happier to comply. This is a very simple yet effective strategy. Another tool might be the use of “time out”. Remember, a tool is basically something you can call upon. Just like the tradesman uses different tools for different purposes, so you can do the same in your parenting.

Secret number four is to be your child’s coach, not their friend. There is a huge distinction. Children need leaders, people that can be in charge. A great coach will also hold their team accountable to meet their goals and that is what we should be doing with our kids. Our job is to help our children discover their true potential within themselves.

Secret number five is to have regular family meetings. It is of the utmost importance to talk to your kids about what is working and what is not. Then you can change what doesn’t work for you. Every child should have a say at a family meeting. This is important as kids love to be heard. It helps them develop many skills they will need for later on in life.

Secret number six is to have very clear expectations. Rules are only effective when everyone understands them. Can you imagine getting pulled over for speeding when you didn’t know the speed limit? Wouldn’t you be slightly annoyed? Kids are the same. Most children are happy to oblige but they need to know exactly what is expected of them at any one time. Only then can they oblige.

Secret number seven is to play the game well. Allow me to explain. Parenting is a big game and the kids have a job to see just how much they can get away with. It’s your job to be consistent with your responses. Be proactive not reactive. If you are reactive you have just lost the game. Here’s why: your child whinges, you react. They win round one. Then there is a second round and a third round. Before very long this game has formed a habit in the life of that child and you have a whinger. Why? Because you let them get away with it. It’s actually your fault.

These are just seven simple tips to help you have fun parenting. And if you are interested in helping your child and their behaviour without even lifting a finger, go to http://www.mysleepingangel.com/digital You’ll be glad you did.