Parenting Tips

Parenting Tips

Here are some useful pointers for first-time mothers as well as mothers with a new addition to the family.

Power it down

Some children bite or push and act like a bully. If your child does this, don’t reward him by letting him see the other child crying or by picking him up and talking to him. Instead, let him know what he did was wrong, remove him from the scene and concentrate on the other child.


Teach them to apologise

Usually, by the age of two, children can make the connection between being naughty and the consequences of their action. Encourage children to say sorry to whoever they’ve hurt, and even give a kiss or hug if both of them are comfortable with that.


Don’t take sides

When toddlers fight or disagree, it’s often difficult to ascertain who the aggressor is. Make sure your child gets the message that some behaviour is never appropriate – like biting – but he can take action to protect himself if attacked.


Make work play

Young children don’t distinguish between ‘work’ and ‘play’ the way adults do. To them, anything can be a game and they can have great fun helping you, even with jobs you find tedious – such as sweeping, vacuuming, dusting and washing-up.


Plan and schedule chores

If you find chores and jobs around the house continually get in the way of spending time with your child, try drawing up a timetable for yourself so you can keep playtime and chore time separate during the day. That way, your child will understand the boundaries better, too.


Establish house rules

Make simple rules for children and be consistent. Start with a few things that they can do and should not do so they don’t become overwhelmed with too many regulations. Avoid having too many don’ts and always explain to the children that the rules were set up for their safety and benefit.


Clamp down on climbing

Many toddlers love to climb but they do not understand the consequence of their action. Often, they do not know how to get down and may even hurt themselves. Try to keep climbing opportunities to a minimum and don’t keep tempting things – like toys or sweets – on high shelves.


Make your home child-safe

Once your toddler learns to walk, it’s time to think about safeguarding his bedroom from accidents. Bookcases and chests of drawers should be fixed to the wall whenever possible, plugs removed from basins, windows locked and electrical sockets covered.


Source: theSun, Tue, 15 Dec 2009