Naturally Healthy Parenting The parent's guide to a healthy family
The art of parenthood cannot be gleaned from a book. Despite the jam-packed shelves in book stores, learning how to be a parent cannot be done from a book. It’s not like making a cake. Parenting is done to everyone’s own tastes. Babies do not quite prepare you for the horror of a toddler. Luckily, the toddler phase soon disappears. Be prepared to have your hands full! Parenting is as difficult or as easy as you want it to be. There are no hard and fast rules on how to be the world’s best mum. But, there are some general parenting truths to help you along your journey.
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Have a Routine
Some parenting books encourage people to ditch routines. But, routine from the onset can be beneficial for you and your child. The earlier that you instil a routine, the better it is for you and your baby. You need to encourage and promote regular bedtimes, bathing regimens and nap times. Giving your baby a sense of routine is vital to their emotional health.
If you don’t have a consistent routine, your toddler will be more prone to temper tantrums. The lack of routine is unsettling for adults. It’s even worse for preschool kids. Take the time to implement a routine. Of course, this can be deviated from occasionally. But, do ensure that your routine is adhered to in the main.
Don’t Focus on the Negative
Yes, your toddler will draw on the walls. They will rub creams on the television. They may decide to have a food fight with their siblings during meal times. Kids are naughty, let’s be honest. While shouting at them is all well and good, you shouldn’t be focusing on discipline all of the time. Children need to be reprimanded. But, according to Essential Baby, you need to positively reinforce their good behaviour too. If you don’t, they will be more prone to negative actions. Reward good conduct with praise or stickers. If your child was kind and shared with other children, point this out to them. For example, “I like the way that you are kind and share with others”. This ensures that they know they are on the right lines. What’s more, they will be more inclined to re-enact that kind of positive behaviour again.
Ignore Whining
Persistent whining can be horrible. We all know that tone of voice that is sure to send shivers up your spine. It’s annoying, which is why so many parents give in. don’t become that parent. When your kid starts crying and misbehaving, ignore them and leave the room. Giving in will only reinforce negative behaviour.
Playtime is Vital
You need to encourage play. The television can be a positive influence on a child’s education. You should not underestimate the importance of leisure. While you may want your child to go to football or dance lessons, you shouldn’t let this interfere with playtime. Free play is important for cognitive development and reasoning. Let their imaginations run wild. Let them be creative. Encouraging free play time is essential to their development.
