When looking for parenting advice, there is an endless supply of information. Some of it is good, some of it is less than good; some of it is research based or science backed, other is just opinion. Regardless of the source or quality of information, it can seem as though there are a lot of things parents “should” do. This can be overwhelming for sure, so I went straight to some of the best resources in parenting advice I know, the parent educators of CCE Suffolk. I asked each of them “What would you say is the 1 or 2 things a parent can do that have the greatest positive impact on their child, regardless of age? Another way to think about this would be, what gives you the most bang for your buck?”
Here are their responses:
- Instill in that child a sense of value, self-worth, and self-confidence.
- Inspire that child to work diligently to reach goals and strive to help others.
- Carve out individual, mostly uninterrupted, time for their children. It can be different depending on the day or situation, but aim for at least 10-15 minutes of individualized attention in a way that the child wants it. For example, if a child wants to play outside for 15 minutes, play with them. If they want to read books together, read together. Even with limiting screentime, if a child isn’t feeling well and wants to watch a show, watch it with them without being on your phone, and talk to them afterwards about what you watched. Basically, showing an interest in their lives and interests can be very beneficial.
- Teach a child to play independently. Parents and caregivers get burned out by always entertaining children, and children get bored and feel helpless alone because they are used to being entertained all the time. Encouraging and setting up opportunities for independent play helps everyone.
- Read to your child as often as you can.
- Say, “I love you” to your child every day!
- Take time to connect as a family – meal time and game night are great opportunities to enjoy one another.
- Limit exposure to screens and social media.
- Respect and validate children’s emotions.
- Role model the behavior you expect from your child.
- Remember that self-reflection and repair with your child can strengthen relationships. Take time to return to what went wrong, or the moment of disconnection, and role model the ability to manage the natural ebb and flow of relationships. Talking to your child about what happened and creating opportunities for recovery and connection will help them learn that struggles may occur but can be overcome.
- Know that all parents mess up and no parent is perfect; it’s ok to admit when you are wrong.
- Make time and space for conversations with your children during mealtimes, bedtimes, car rides, and walks. Look for and prioritize opportunities to really talk with and listen to your children. Keep screens OFF to turn on communication. These conversations provide so many benefits to the relationship, including closeness and enjoyment, problem solving opportunities, even academic help, as oral language skills are the foundation of literacy.
All Blogs are written by Professionals in the fields of Nutrition, Human Development and Diabetes.