50 Easy Ways to Be a Fantastic Parent

Throughout the year, our board of advisors -- a brain trust of the best pediatric doctors, developmental experts, and educators in the country -- shares the latest thinking about raising happy and healthy kids in the pages of Parents. Now we've gathered our all-time favorite nuggets of their advice in one outstanding article that will have a profound effect on your whole family.

By Barrie Gillies

Prev 1 2 3 (of 11) Next

Set Smart Limits

Take charge. Children crave limits, which help them understand and manage an often confusing world. Show your love by setting boundaries so your kids can explore and discover their passions safely.

Don't clip your child's wings. Your toddler's mission in life is to gain independence. So when she's developmentally capable of putting her toys away, clearing her plate from the table, and dressing herself, let her. Giving a child responsibility is good for her self-esteem (and your sanity!).

Don't try to fix everything. Give young kids a chance to find their own solutions. When you lovingly acknowledge a child's minor frustrations without immediately rushing in to save her, you teach her self-reliance and resilience.

Remember that discipline is not punishment. Enforcing limits is really about teaching kids how to behave in the world and helping them to become competent, caring, and in control.

Pick your battles. Kids can't absorb too many rules without turning off completely. Forget arguing about little stuff like fashion choices and occasional potty language. Focus on the things that really matter -- that means no hitting, rude talk, or lying.

Related Feature:

The Real Joys of Being a Mom >>

Next: Create Your Own Quality Time

What do you think of this story? Tell Us.

Related Videos

Kids Self-Discipline

Believe it or not, it is possible to teach your ki...

My Baby's Got What?

They are all common conditions, but things like cr...

Talking To Teens

Parents.TV gives advice on how you can connect wit...

Topics in Better Parenting

Green Parenting

Comments

Comments (5)

fawnmcmanigal wrote:

Definitely yes Cardenacademy! It's been awhile since I was here but I have been working hard getting my children's book done. Reading book together with your child everyday is a great experience that will give your child a sense of intimacy and well-being. So now I'm really happy to create a contest and promote my book, "Skat the Christmas Cat" by giving away a free Kindle Fire! Just visit http://www.SkatTheCat.com for more details about the contest. Thanks!

11/15/2011 12:52:09 AM Report Abuse

cardenacademy wrote:

Very good and informative post. This will very helpful for parents.Thanks for sharing...

11/3/2011 06:31:49 AM Report Abuse

fawnmcmanigal wrote:

"I would like to print out some copies of this 50 easy yet remarkable ways in becoming a good parent. Good reminders to all the parents out there who are trying to figure out how to build a happy home especially those who are also planning to have their own family. Share more so we could also learn more! Thanks https://www.facebook.com/pages/Skat-the-Cat/163246253743482

9/9/2011 03:02:59 AM Report Abuse

cshellor wrote:

One of your best issues yet. I am printing out the 50 easy ways to be a parent and handing them out to parents I know. Thanks!

7/6/2010 12:24:42 PM Report Abuse

perkinsbeverly wrote:

I am trying to set up some parenting classes for teen mothers at the job that I work at. Is there any DVD's or ideas that someone could share with me?

3/19/2010 07:19:03 PM Report Abuse

Add your comment

You must be logged in to leave a comment. Register | Log In