8 Ways to Become a Better Parent ...

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All children love to feel needed. Working together will give them the opportunity to speak up and learn how certain things function. Whether you are mowing the lawn, making a scrapbook, cleaning the house, organizing your things or creating something on your computer, do it together. Even by telling your 4-year old to sort socks by color and fold them, you are doing something good.

You are going to become a better parent and make less mistakesif you stick to this one. Words said in impatience or haste can leave a long lasting impression on their tiny hearts and minds. It’s like leaving a footprint in cement. Thinking before speaking always pays off, especially when you are angry.

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Children will open up and tell you about their day at school, as long as you are interested in listening and show them support. The minute you start seeming uninterested or tell them to keep quiet so that you can finish more important work, they will turn away from you. If you do this often,in the long run, they will completely stop looking to you for support and input and you don't want that now, do you?

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Do you know how sometimes children won’t listen and don’t hear you when you are trying to get their attention? So you talk louder and louder until you get their attention? Don’t do this. Try this approach: talk softer and softer until they notice you and respond.

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When the answer is “no,” firmly say it and add some compassion in there.Say your son wants a brand newX-Box 360 and you can't afford it right now, tell him exactly that. Don’t come off as hateful and act like the answer is no, just because. They will listen to you and not hold a grudge if you explain your decision as opposed to a "Because I say so".

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Do one thing for your child everyday that is special and show them how important their happiness is to you. Take him out for an animated movie, play outside in the rain with them, buy them ice-cream etc. This sometimes might mean putting away your own hobbies and activities but I promise you, as you watch them smile, you will be happy!

Yes, I am talking about you. You are a hardworking parent who hardly hastime for yourself. Find time to indulge and pamper yourself and you will be in a better mood to take care of your children.

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Often times, kids feel as if they are guilty until proven innocent. When they start telling you something, before you over-react or get defensive, you should listen. It is always important to assume the best and not the worst.

As a parent, you should always have an open mind and try to understand where the kids are coming from. You were little once and you made the same mistakes they are making now. And one day, they will be in your shoes. So set a good example for them.

What tips do you have to share to become a better parent?

Top Photo Credit: Samuli Ikäheimo