Raising Children/Grandchildren: 7 Steps to More Effective Parenting

By Ara H. Assilian

October 12, 2023

One of the toughest and most fulfilling jobs in the world is raising kids. It comes with joys, of course, but it requires hard work. Parenting is the type of job which you might feel the least prepared for. Raising children is tough, but family life can also be extremely rewarding.

7 Tips on Raising Children

You Are Your Child’s Role Model

Your kids will always learn by watching you. Moreover, you need to become a role model for them. Parents play a very important role in child raising. Showing is better than telling in good parenting. Additionally, it’s easier said than done. Remember the last time your kid was pushing your buttons, you yelled at them?

This is the time you self-reflect on your behavior. Sometimes kids lose it when they feel pushed to their limits. Therefore, in scenarios like this, you need to become a role model for them. We have to model how to regulate our emotions and handle things that make us mad calmly.

Show Them Affection

Your kids need your love and affection. “Give me hugs and kisses. You can’t spoil me with those.” Furthermore, always remember that your kids won’t get spoiled if you are showing them love, that’s not how it works. Showing affection to children helps create secure attachment and allows them to build an internal working model of loving relationships.

Here are some examples:

• Give them hugs and kisses.

• Spend a lot of time with them.

• Empathize with their struggles and not dismiss their feelings.

Authoritative Styles of Parenting

Your kid’s brain is still developing. They will learn with time, and they want you to teach them patiently. Moreover, you need to practice authoritative styles of parenting. Do you know what you need to do? You need to implement kind and firm positive discipline.

Children want to learn, and that is why they have such curious personalities. Hence, don’t push them back from learning. However, as a parent, you need to understand every kid is different and learning takes time.

Be Your Child’s Safe Space

You need to be the first person your child thinks of when they are going through a tough time. Moreover, be your child’s secure base for them to explore and return to. You need to raise a child who is securely attached by being a safe parent for them.

Have Real Conversations with Them

Having real conversations with your children is essential. Encourage them to express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns openly. Additionally, be an active listener and create an environment where they feel comfortable sharing with you. By fostering open communication, you can better understand their needs and provide guidance when necessary.