5 Tips To More Effective 21st-century Parenting

Raising children is one of the most challenging yet blissful jobs in the world - and the one for which you might feel the least prepared. With the current pandemic challenges, the burden on your heads has multiplied. We have attempted to bring to your notice 5 major 21st-century parenting tips that can help you feel more enriched as a parent.

1. Feed Your Child's Self-Esteem:
Did you know, kids start developing their sense of self-worth as babies. This is possible as they see themselves through your eyes (i.e. their parents' eyes). The voice tone you use to talk to them, the body language that you display towards them and your every expression to any situation is all remembered and then replicated by your little one. Therefore, many times you must have come across people saying, be wear of how you react when your kid has a small fall. If you panic your kid will too, if you stay strong your little one emerges strong. Hence as a parent, you need to choose your bets wisely. Additionally, your words and actions affect their developing self-esteem more than anything else.

We recommend you must shower them with praising accomplishments, however small as this gentle move will make them feel proud of the little good they do. Also, permitting kids to do things independently will make them feel capable and strong. By contrast, parents today have started comparing their own blood to other children, this will do no good but more harm making your kid feel worthless.

Avoid making loaded statements or using words as weapons. Comments like "What a stupid thing to do!" or "You act more like a baby than your little brother!" cause damage just as physical blows do.

Key Takeaway: Choose your words carefully and be as compassionate as possible. Let your kids know that everyone makes mistakes and that your love for them is still unconditional even when they do something unfavourable.

2. Catch Kids Being Good and Reward it:
As humans, we tend to focus on the negative wrongdoings of people around us and tend to sideline the good deeds done. Have you ever stopped to think about how many times you react negatively to your kids on a given day? You will be surprised to find yourself criticizing far more often than complimenting. How would you feel about a boss who treated you with that much negative guidance, even if it was well-intentioned?

The most efficient approach is to catch your kids doing something right: "You made your bed without being asked - that's brilliant!" or "I was watching you play with your sister and you were very patient - that’s great!" These statements of encouragement will boost more good behaviour over the long run. Make it a regular ritual to point out something to praise every day. 

Key Takeaway: Be generous with rewards when you catch your child doing something good - hugs, kisses, cuddles and compliments can work wonders, you don’t have to habituate them to physical gifts. Soon you will find you are "nurturing" more of the desirable behaviours you would like to see.

3. Be Consistent with Discipline:
Discipline is the key requirement for every household to have a happy environment. The main aim of incorporating disciplinary factors is to help your kids understand what behaviours are acceptable and what are not. Like curious children, they may test the limits you set for them, but they need those standard limits to grow into responsible adults.

You can start small by establishing basic house rules which can help your young ones to understand your expectations and develop self-control. For example, no TV until homework is done, and no hitting.

You might want to have a disciplinary system in place: like one warning, followed by consequences such as a "time out" or loss of privileges. 

Key Takeaway: It is often observed that parents of the 21-st century fail to follow through with the consequences. You can't discipline kids for talking back one day and ignore it the next. Being consistent is the primary point, preach the same disciplinary action today and tomorrow for consistent results. 

4. Make Time for Your Kids:

The world today is full of hustle and bustle leaving you no or petite time for friends and family. Leaving aside alone to spend quality time together, it’s often challenging for parents and kids to get together for a family meal. But there is probably nothing kids would like more. Small efforts from your side will rejuvenate you. Waking up 10 minutes earlier from bed in the morning so that you can share some laughs and giggles with your little ones over breakfast with your child. leave the dishes in the sink for a little longer and take a walk after dinner. Kids who aren't getting the attention they want from their parents often act out or misbehave because they're sure to be noticed that way.

Many parents find it rewarding to schedule together time with their kids. Create a "special night" each week to be together and let your kids help decide how to spend the time. Look for other ways to connect — put a note or something special in your kid's lunchbox.

Key Takeaway: Don't feel guilty if you're a working parent. It is the many little things you can still do - making popcorn, playing cards, window shopping, watching a kiddish movie together, taking them to the park on weekends - that kids will remember.

5. Be a Good Role Model:

Young kids learn a lot about how to act by watching their parents. The younger they are, the more cues they take from you. Before you lash out or blow your mind out in front of your child, think about this: Is that how you want your child to behave when angry? Be aware that you're constantly being watched by your kids. Studies have shown that children who tend to engage in physical abusive activities in school usually have a role model for aggression at home.

Key Takeaway: Model the traits you wish to see in your kids: respect, friendliness, honesty, kindness, tolerance. Exhibit unselfish behaviours. Do things for other people without expecting a reward. Express thanks and offer compliments. Above all, treat your kids the way you expect other people to treat you.

 
Winding up:
This was a small attempt by Genius baby, an online baby clothes manufacturer to make parenting a manageable job. We have also tried to help you better with 5 ways to juggle your responsibilities at home as a new parent. Remember, to channelize energies on the areas that need the most attention rather than trying to address everything all at once. Admit it when you're burned out. Take your time to rejuvenate and bounce back stronger, bolder and happier.

ALL THE BEST!