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8 Effective Parenting Tips That Work

Parenting can be overwhelming at times, but you can easily manage it using the right methods and ways. Here are some effective parenting tips you can use.
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Parenting is a wonderful experience. Though it can be overwhelming at times, you can easily manage it using the right methods. As a parent, you can contribute to your kids’ success in life, by making some efforts. Here are some effective parenting tips that you can use to become a better parent and enjoy a beautiful relationship with your child. ~ Ed.

Parenting is one of the toughest jobs, and every parent realizes this fact over time.

No matter how well you have prepared yourself to be a good parent, you may fall for some of the parenting traps.

In such cases, you need to go back to the basics and re-educate yourself with the effective parenting tips that work.

There is no one parenting style or way of parenting.

You may choose or create your parenting method based on your specific family conditions and needs.

But there are certain tips of parenting that may be applicable in all circumstances and cultures.

To make your parenting effective, you need to read and cultivate the effective parenting habits.

It is good to learn from the experiences of others. This way you get to know what works for them, so you too can try them while parenting your children.

If you are not a parent yet, this information can be crucial for you. That’s because if you read it today, you are  likely to retain the essence of effective parenting by the time you become a parent.

Enjoy this infographic, briefly followed by a few more parenting tips to help you get out of the parenting problems or traps.

Read more about the effective parenting styles here.

Infographic describing the tips for effective parenting. Credit: ECED

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Parenting Efforts and Habits

You saw for yourself how much parents can contribute to their kids’ success in life.

A little effort from the parents is all that is needed. Remember, doing the right things can bring happiness in the lives of your children.

If you remember your childhood days, you know it made you feel good when your parents behaved in the manner as described in this infographic.

Though the infographic caters for young children, the parenting tips, however, apply to older kids as well.

It’s your parenting habits and style that matter a lot, rather than the age of your children.

You need to evolve into a better parent, and give out more than what you receive. Isn’t parenting all about giving?

I wish I had more time to give my kid’s, and I keep working on making that aspect better. How about you?

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It’s the duty and responsibility of every parent to give the best to their children. Here are some tips to be an effective parent, for young as well as older children.

Mother holding baby in arms using effective parenting tips.

Read this post if you want to know what it takes to be a better parent.

Effective Parenting Tips For Every Parent

Effective means something that works well and is capable of producing the intended result. I hope these parenting tips will help you become better parents.

Keep Communicating With Your Kids

In the infographic you saw that talking to small kids resulted in their better I.Q. and reading ability.

However, communication has got a bigger role to play, not only in the foundation years, but even in the teenage years and adulthood of your child.

Proper communication can prevent many conflicting situations and problems due to misunderstanding.

The more you talk to your kids, the more open they become with you. With our kid’s too, we keep talking to them to know about their daily activities.

Therefore, the number one tip for effective parenting is to keep the communication channels open with your kids.

DON’T MISS : Why Your Kids Will Never Amount to Anything

Get Involved and Play Your Part

You can’t be an effective parent if you don’t carry out your parenting responsibilities.

You need to take out quality time to bond with your children. Know what they are doing and get involved in their life. There are no two ways about it.

I know we spent a lot of time with our kid’s when they were young, and even now when they are grown up, we don’t miss an opportunity to be together.

Develop a friendly relationship with your children and spend good time with them to help them with their life. This strategy is really going to be very effective.

RELATED READ : 3 Ways To Create Family Bonding Time

Let Kids Have Fun and Be Themselves

Kids will be kids and they like to have fun. Create conditions for your kids to develop their own personalities and learn from their experiences.

As part of the quality family time, try letting your kids have the maximum fun.

This will create a better bond between you and your kids; it will help them get rid of their stress and tensions.

Do not try to impose your personality on your kids. They are your kids but not your property. They are individuals, and you will be a better parent if you help them be themselves.

This can be a little tricky, as you don’t know the thin line about when to have control and when to let go. So, balance out your parenting skills, and let them take over after a while.

DO READ : Let Children Behave Like Children

Teach Your Child to Be Independent

Allowing kids to be themselves and being independent are two different aspects.

Make your kids self-reliant so they gain confidence and have high self-esteem. Help them make their own decision and guide them wherever necessary, without imposing yourself on them.

If you have a good rapport with your kids, making your kids self-independent will not take them away from you, but make your kids appreciate your parenting.

There comes an age, as it has with our kids, when we have started giving them the freedom to take decisions and make the choices in life. Of course, as parents, we are there to guide, not impose. 🙂

MUST READ : 5 Ways Of Helping Children Cope With Change In Life

Be Positive and Encouraging

Refrain from criticizing your children, whether in front of people or otherwise. Negative talks will result in negative results.

Always use positive ways to deal with your kids, regarding any aspect.

I know sometimes it seems very difficult to follow this tip. But I keep reminding myself and stay positive with them.

As an effective parent, you need to be calm and patient while dealing with kids. Learn to encourage their positive behavior instead.

DO READ 7 Things To Tell Your Children About The Purpose In Life

Put Limits and Be Consistent

Being positive does not mean that you become lenient and let your kids do anything they want. For effective parenting, you need to put limits, and that’s required..

You saw the infographic mentioning putting limits on the TV times, which can not only help the child succeed in school but also minimize health risks. Similarly, you can put limits on the mobile and Internet usage time, and the timings for outings, if required.

We have house rules, which our kids know, if they break, they will be grounded or there will be limits put for them, so they are careful. With time, it becomes a habit with kids to play their part well.

You can certainly be flexible at times, but try to be consistent and maintain the imposed limits. Kids will try to test the boundaries, but you need to be firm as well as be friendly.

RELATED POST: 4 Tips to Setting Healthy Boundaries For Teenagers

Give Reward and Love

Disciplining does not necessarily mean punishing. If needed, you can use various alternatives like time outs, taking away privileges, or use grounding.

It’s better to explain things and let kids understand the consequences.

The most effective parenting would be to catch your child being good by rewarding their good behavior and reinforcing the positives.

Praise, respect, and give compliments to your kids. You should express your unlimited and unconditional love to your children if you want to be an effective parent.

This is one aspect busy parents like myself, tend to forget, but it’s required! Believe me, praising your kids can boost their morale and gear them up to take the other challenges of life. Try it! 🙂

MUST READ POST : 10 Effective Discipline Techniques For Children

Set Yourself As An Example

And finally, what you do matters.

You are the role model for your children – they observe you and will always follow you and yours ways, consciously or subconsciously.

So, take care not to have arguments with your spouse in front of your children, nor abuse your spouse.

Instead, love, respect, demonstrate affection, and be happy in front of and with your kids.

Remember, your personality matters too.

Your kids want you to be special so that they can be proud of. Our kid’s want us to look our best always, and they are quick to follow in our footsteps, so we have to be careful all the time! 🙂

Therefore, ideally, the number one tip for effective parenting should be gearing up to be a special and unique person, for your kids.

DO READ : How Do You Transmit More Than Genes To Your Children

Parents using effective parenting tips by happily playing with their child.

Wrapping Up

There is a lot more you can do for being a good parent, but these tips should set the ball rolling.

I know it’s all not easy and you may face many problems parenting your kids.

But effective parenting is all about being persistent and patient.

Keep your temper under control, and don’t get on that train! Anger and impatience, lack of time and involvement, and no love or bonding can create irreparable damage.

So, keep practicing these tips of effective parenting, and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful relationship with your child that is ever so precious!

In the end, I have this beautiful poem “Children Learn What They Live” by Dorothy Law Neite.

“If a child lives with criticism, he learns to condemn.

If a child lives with hostility, he learns to fight.

If a child lives with ridicule, he learns to be shy.

If a child learns to feel shame, he learns to feel guilty.

If a child lives with tolerance, he learns to be patient.

If a child lives with encouragement he learns confidence.

If a child lives with praise, he learns to appreciate.

If a child lives with fairness, he learns justice.

If a child lives with security, he learns to have faith.

If a child lives with approval, he learns to like himself.

If a child lives with acceptance and friendship, he learns to find love in the world.”

So, note the way you treat your kids the next time and look up this poem. 🙂

All the best, and Happy Parenting. 🙂

Over To You

As a parent, what are your good parenting habits? Share your effective parenting tips in the comments so others benefit from them.

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  1. Thank you for this fantastic article. As a parent, I strongly agree that to teach children how to behave and act accordingly is by setting ourselves as an example. All the tips and suggestions in this article are helpful for both guardians and parents especially nowadays that the internet is very much accessible.
    Communication is also critical to prevent misunderstandings. The more we get angry and disappointed with our children’s bad behavior, the more we are losing control over their emotions and temper. Although there are instances that grandparents or other relatives would spoil them, we must make sure that we are clear with the house rules.
    Instead of just the one who do the talking, we also need to be good listeners and observers. The children might get intimidated or scared even with our gestures and stares. While we have different parenting styles and methods, the tips you shared with us are possible and doable. I am glad that you take time compiling them and writing all of them here.
    They say that it takes a village to raise a child and we know how true it is. But we are tough parents so I know we can do it. Keep the faith moms and dads!

  2. Hi Harleena,

    Thank you so much for your useful parenting tips. I totally agree with you. To bring up a child, we have to be always accepting them as they are. Sometimes they do things exactly the way they should be done, that time we have to appreciate them, sometimes they make mistakes, and we have to forgive them and help them learn from it.

  3. Nice article Harleena Singh! It’s true that parenting children can be enormously rewarding and fulfilling – but also exhausting and challenging. As a parent I always try to improve my children’s behavior by spending time with them individually every day, giving them the positive attention and emotional connection they need.

  4. Hey Harleena – great post. And the play time is essential I agree. But what I have seen time and time again, is parents join in with the kids and children lap up the parents attention and enjoy it so much. Then the parent takes over and becomes the boss. If a parent is going to play with kids, play – don’t become the organiser or the rule maker. When you change hats from parents to play mate, you take your kids to so many places they would never have gone with their imaginations. And that is what quality time is. Hats off to parents – it is the hardest 24 hour job for a lifetime title one could ever choose. I think you have your little miracles on loan and what you put into them is what they will put into the world. Decision making is a key skill in these years. If you can instil decision making skills into your child, by the time they reach their teens they will be a lot better equipped to handle peer group pressure. Deciding for themselves rather than just going with the flow which is dangerous at that age. Anyway I will stop going on, I just really enjoyed you post and it sparked a chat.

  5. HI

    Great tips to follow.
    As father of 5 years old girl I will say it is very easy and enjoying process ….
    Your child grow and only you can give her good tips,and help her. During last 5 years we always try to go ways to present and now I will say it was worth of.

  6. Dear Harleena,

    What an awesome post with infographic!

    Parenting of today is no longer just about providing basic needs like food, clothes and shelter for our kids but also about nurturing and enriching them to be someone better than who we are.

    Thanks & Regards,
    Lee

    1. Welcome to the blog Lee 🙂

      Glad you liked the infographic and post 🙂

      Absolutely! Those are the very basics that every parent needs to provide, but parenting nowadays has gone much beyond. I guess that’s why there are parenting skills that every parent must learn from whatever sources they can, isn’t it? Anything to make our kids good humans.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views with us 🙂

      BTW – Do add your Gravatar or profile picture, would be nice to see who we are talking to – just a friendly suggestion 🙂

  7. I cant wait to actually put these things to use!!!!!!!

    Im so excited! I do read to my daughter every other day 10 minutes or so. Usually a Dr seuss book lol

    she seems to enjoy it…i think!! 🙂

    1. Hi Dennis,

      Lol…I am glad to hear that, and don’t worry – you’d be putting ALL of these to use and much more! Just wait for a while till your little one grows up 🙂

      I am sure you daughter would be loving those 10 minutes of hearing you read to her – would be good if you could take out time daily though. You know kids love to spend time with their parents, the bond just gets better with time.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your experiences with us 🙂

  8. Hi Harleena Mam
    What a wonderful infographic. I simply love the details of the poster. As I am not a parent ;-). I will share my views as a son. I am blessed to have such parents.
    It’s true that every parent wants his/her child to excel in life. But, in this process, parents must give ample space to children. Every child is born with unique qualities. And, that quality is not restricted to academics only. By talking, we can solve lots of problems. The problem is not with the children, the problem is with the lack of interaction. Due to generation gap, Kids are not comfortable talking to their parents

    I completely agree with your TV point. Children must devote less time on TV. But, I have seen the kids of working parents indulge in TV watching only. Instead of watching TV, kids should indulge in art and craft activities.

    I have seen parents forcing their child to work hard by giving examples of other student’s report card. We must direct all our negative energies towards positive building only.
    Thanks for providing this wonderful information.

    1. Hi Yatin,

      Glad you liked the infographic and post, even though you aren’t a parent yet, but yes, as a son you can relate 🙂

      Well said – the space is essential, though it comes a little later in life, once they are ending their teens and stepping into adulthood and it’s time to venture into the real outside world. I guess before that, it’s all a training and disciplining phase, which most kids realize, but only once they grow up.

      Absolutely! The problem lies in the lack of communication, and this happens in any relationship, whether between a parent and child, between couples, or even your clients and bosses. I wish more people would realize this fact and understand that ALL problems can be resolved, only if you talk!

      I don’t think the generation gap is all that much between parents and their kids, unless the age difference is really too much. I think if both sides make the effort, such a gap can easily be taken care of.

      Agree with you there – spending time in creative activities or hobbies is better than on spending time watching TV. Working parents somehow find less time with their kids, and feel by allowing them to watch TV, they can fill the gap, but it works adversely.

      Comparing other kids to yours is the worst thing parents can do because each child is unique. Kids have their own capacities, and as parents, you need to appreciate their little of efforts.

      Thanks for stopping by and adding more value to the post 🙂

  9. HI Harleena,

    Lovely post. I just enjoyed each and every bit of it. I had bookmarked the same to read it later when you had published it. I was curious for the very obvious reason – IShaan.

    I would definitely read out stories to him. The best part would be that those stories would be his own stories written by me.

    I would love to know the little creative artist in him. I watch him day-in day-out for any such clue. He loves the touch and feel. The snuggling part. I cannot mention in words the amount of joy and happiness i get when I am involved with him.

    Thankyou for the brilliant pointers.

    1. Hi Ajay,

      Glad you liked the post and could relate to it 🙂

      Yes, I know this post would help you with Ishaan in some ways, though as I mentioned in my earlier comments, each family and the parenting styles differs. But the basics remain the same, isn’t it?

      Lol…I am sure he’d know what you’ve been up to once he grows up! But as long as kids are young, any story goes! I remember by Dad telling us the same story with different characters for so long, and each time we used to hear it great interest, till we grew up and caught his trick!

      That’s so sweet, and I hope your bond of love remains like this forever (Touchwood!) – enjoy and treasure these precious moments for kids grow up very soon and things don’t really remain the same.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your experiences with us 🙂

  10. Understanding the child need is really tough when you become parents first time so it would be better to take advice from experienced persons.

    1. Hi Avnish,

      That’s true – it is an uphill task, especially for new parents. It certainly makes sense to read or gain knowledge from those who’ve been on this path earlier. The more you know about parenting skills, the better you get.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views with us 🙂

  11. Hi, Harleena,

    Oh wow, I couldn’t agree more with the fact that parenting is the toughest job on the face of the earth. I believe it’s the most rewarding also so it balances out. 🙂

    You’re absolutely right, there is no one correct way to parent as each child is an individual and each set of parents have different preferences.

    Your point about learning from the experiences of others is well taken. I think so many times parents feel like they have to know it all right out of the gate, when they could simply ask a family member or a friend who is more experienced for their input. Many times a difficult situation will become easier if they would pool their resources.

    Number two on your infographic is awesome. Investing in books was something we decided to do early on in our family, and I have absolutely no regrets in this regard. All three of my adult children are avid readers, and I could not be happier about this.

    Definitely agree with limiting TV time. Not much good on these days.

    Being consistent with putting the limits is difficult but doable for sure. Love the tip about rewarding because we need to put attention on the things they do right, not just when they do something wrong.

    Number eight is the climax, in my opinion. We must be good examples because kids will do as we DO – not as we say.

    Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful article, Harleena, and I will be telling my friends.

    Have a lovely evening, and I’ll be speaking with you soon.

    ˜Carol

    1. Hi Carol,

      Agree with you, and along with the challenges, come the joys too, though it’s all not easy 🙂

      Absolutely! Every parent – child relationship would differ as each family and their ways are different.

      Yes, it does make sense to learn from each other or the many resources we have around us because none of us are perfect, nor were we born as parents with a guide in our hands. It’s a process, a journey, that we go through, so makes sense to sharpen your parenting skills in this regard.

      The habit of reading is wonderful, and I am glad my kid’s too are into it, though nowadays the are more into their course books than anything else…lol…Or else, they read it all on their Kindle apps!

      I guess when kids are small, as parents we need to guide them about the right and wrong, and limiting their TV time is a huge help to them, which they realize later. Wish more parents would understand this fact and the harm it can do as regard to their health and education.

      True – awards work well, though not overdoing them, or else kids work or do things only for rewards, which again is not right. But they certainly need lots of encouragement and incentives, who doesn’t?! 🙂

      Oh yes…kids are quick to pick up any small thing their parents do, so we better be careful. Actions speak louder than words, don’t they?

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts with us. Have a nice week ahead, and see you around too 🙂

  12. Hello Harleena

    Great insights into effective parenting.

    As parents, we need to understand our child’s behaviour. There are times when their strange and indifferent attitude creates anxiety and anger in us. We should have patience and maturity to handle these testing times. We should step into their shoes to understand their point of view and at the same time help them come out of their problems.

    1. Hi Anoop,

      Glad you liked the post and could relate to it 🙂

      That’s true, and no one can understand our child better than us, so each parent- child relationship is different in it’s own way.

      Oh yes…I can understand what you mean, and I know you have a young one your end…lol…they can test your patience for sure! But as you mentioned, you handle them with utmost love and care, especially during such times. Stepping into their shoes is a great way to feel what they feel.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your experiences with us 🙂

  13. Hello Harleena maam,
    Wonderful post and a great infographic.It was here at Aha!NOW that I saw you explain an infographic instead of just putting it there with a para of introduction.

    Coming to the post. I totally agree with all the points. Having limitations on TV times is very necessary especially at this time when we have vacations and children always watch TV and spoil their time.

    Giving children time to play on their own I think helps them to discover the world around them by themselves.

    That is a right point. We should teach children to be indipendant. while parents are always a blessing and we need their support I think we should let children to take decisions by themselves and support them. Else they might never develop their inner courage as they say “Nothing grows well under a big shady tree”.

    Thanks for writing this wonderful post maam. I know its going to be a guide for many parents. 🙂

    1. Hi Swadhin,

      Thank you for your kind words, and glad you liked the infogrpahic too 🙂

      It’s tough for me to write short-1-paragh infographic posts actually…lol…though I try my best to keep the length of these one short, but there is so much more one can add to the infographic, just as I added in this post, so went ahead with it.

      I agree about limiting their TV time, though sadly some parents tend to allow kids to watch unlimited TV because they are busy, not realizing the harm it does to their studies and health in the long run. Everything in moderation is the key.

      Play time is important, and so is the time to discover their own space, and as they grow, allow them the required freedom, though under your supervision till they are adults. If you don’t allow that, they won’t develop the self-confidence and courage to face the world and challenges of life, which they all have to handle on their own one day.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views with us 🙂

  14. Hi Harleena,

    Great infographic! My kids are all adults now and they left the house a few years ago, but I remember being the kind of parent that would be strict enough when they were young. As they grew older, I gave them more freedom, but I still supervised their decisions.

    We always talked about anything and, even now that all three are adults, we still do. I always thought that it was important to communicate about what was going on in our lives.

    Another aspect of my parenting style is that I was and still is a very affectionate parent. Still today, I always tell them that I love them every time we talk on the phone and when they leave after a visit home. As a matter of fact, I do the same with my own parents.

    I love the poem! It is full of truthful and valuable lessons. Thanks for sharing this important post. Passing this along. Have a great week ahead! 🙂

    1. Hi Nataly,

      Glad you liked the infographic, and you would be the right person to guide us more about parenting, having gone through this phase with adult kids now 🙂

      I think you’re like most moms, as I was like that too. I guess being parents, you need to be strict to discipline and teach them things when they are young. As they grow older, they need to be allowed to take their own decisions, but under your watchful-eye.

      Absolutely! I am glad everyone is commonly voting for communicating with your kids, and the parent-child bond only gets better with it. How sweet, and that is SO important, something most parents forget doing – to express their love or even tell their kids they love them – I miss out on it at times too, so great reminder for me!

      I love this poem too, says a lot, isn’t it? Thanks for stopping by and sharing your experiences with us. Appreciate you passing it along. Have a nice week ahead as well 🙂

  15. Hi Harlena,

    Finally I see your writing here. It’s been a long time I did not see it. lol 😀

    Yes, I totally agree with you. Parenting is a tough task. Although I am not married yet, I can say like that. I can see an example of my parents though. 🙂

    The world of children are playing, then we should not prevent a child to play, let alone told them to look for money. It was not time for them to do that.

    I’m often looking for information on how to educate children well on the internet. So, I am glad you posted this infographic. 🙂

    Thanks for sharing this with us, Harleena.
    I hope you stay healthy and do the best!

    Regards,
    Nanda

    1. Hi Nanda,

      Lol…you mean you see a mom’s writing here 🙂

      Yes, been a while since I wrote about parenting, but glad I did finally. Oh yes, challenging – all time job, but it has it joys too. I guess you’d know both sides of it once you become a parent!

      I agree about letting children be children, and allowing them to play, though we need to keep teaching and disciplining them alongside also, before it gets too late, isn’t it?

      Hope this post helps parents in some ways too.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views with us 🙂

  16. Hi Harleena

    First of all, I do love the infogragh as it is an apt image with a lot of information.

    Talking about parenting tips, as you have so mentioned there in no one size strategy to parenting but there are some basics that are very important.

    For me, my parents might not have used the best methods in parenting but I believe that in their capacity, they tried to make us responsible and learn good manners. Even though they were strict, my siblings and I realized that our parent loved us greatly and wanted the best for us.

    I am glad you wrote this post as this will help parents to train their kids with the most effective method. Thanks for sharing.

    1. Hi Ikechi,

      Glad you liked the infographic, which I also thought conveys a lot 🙂

      Yes indeed, the basics always remain the same, but there are no fixed rules or parenting formula for parenting because each child, family, and parents are different. What I go through, perhaps no other parent would, so each to their own and what works best for them.

      Agree with you, and that’s why we ought to respect and value our parents for all they’ve done for us, which was to the best of the abilities. I also hope this post helps parents in more ways than one.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your experiences with us 🙂

  17. Wonderful post Harleena!

    And quite timely too! All around I see parents who’re either too obsessed with their kids lives or they’re too busy to pay attention. This post gently shows them the right way to do it with a combination of love, space and mutual respect.

    And this would’ve not been possible hadn’t you been an awesome parent yourself! So cheers to you 🙂

    Have a nice week ahead!
    Nik

    1. Hi Niks,

      Thanks for liking the post 🙂

      True, and both of these are not good for you or your kids. One can only hope and pray that this post shows them some light in this regard – the purpose with which it was written.

      Ah…not an awesome one, but I’m just alright, with a scope for improvement! I guess that’s how we all get better, isn’t it? You’d know all about it once you become one!

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views with us 🙂

  18. Hi Harleena,

    You can tell you’re speaking from experience. 😀 We must learn to talk to our children and not at them. When we do little things like that and listen to them it occupies the biggest part of their hearts. All they want to do is feel apart of and valued.

    I like when you said let them be themselves. That’s very important because so many parents try to mode their children into what they think they should be then children grow up having resentments toward their parents.

    Children do learn what they live and spending quality time together is the key. When your children enjoy being around you then you know you’re doing something right.

    Great article!

    1. Hi Vernon,

      You bet! Lots of experience where parenting is concerned 🙂

      You are so right in saying that, and communication means a two way process, not just instructions from parents to their kid’s, which I know most parents are guilty of – but it needs to be changed because it makes such a difference to them and boosts their morale. They get a sense of belonging when they are encouraged to participate too.

      Children need their little space, and being parents doesn’t give us the authority to overpower them or force our views on them as they too are individuals and need to be respected. Yes, resentment can easily set in under such circumstances.

      I wish more parents would understand the importance of spending quality time with their kids because they aren’t going to stay with you forever, so value the precious moments of togetherness and make the most of it.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts with us 🙂

  19. Hi Harleena

    This is a topic that is dear to my heart and it is so beautifully written. I thoroughly enjoyed the poem at the end – like the icing on the cake 🙂

    All of the tips are very good and # 1, 5 and 8 stood out for me. Good open communication with our children is healthy by any standard. Children also need positive role models and who better than their parent, right? The first place that children should hear positive affirmations and encouragement is at home from their parents.

    I would add to your list: 9) teach children to pray and read the bible with them. As parents we have a responsibility to give them this godly foundation.

    Have a great week. 🙂

    1. Hi Yvonne,

      So glad you liked these parenting tips, and yes, that poem is one of my favorites too – I think I might have shared it on this blog earlier too 🙂

      Nothing works better than talking and listening to your kids – communication is the key, not just talking to them, as most parents tend to do! I think it just strengthens the bonds, isn’t it?

      True about the role models and all the positiveness – it all does start from home, so we better gear ourselves to be really good, and when not, learn to admit our faults and apologize – that is essential too, something that kid’s learn from. Praying is a wonderful addition, something that needs to be instilled when they are young, so it becomes a habit as they grow.

      Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us. Have a nice week as well 🙂

  20. This is an awesome list, Harleena! Especially #4 is so important. I know people who do everything for their kids but that’s not going to help them in the long run. I can’t think of anything to add. Unconditional love is something to strive for everyday. 🙂

    1. Hi Lisa,

      Glad you liked these effective parenting tips 🙂

      I agree with you there – helping kids should be only to a certain limit, and thereafter they need to find their wings and learn to fly. I guess being parents it’s tough for us to let go completely too, but we all have to, eventually.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views 🙂

  21. Harleena,

    Love this post! When my kids were little, I used to wish that there had been a college course on parenting. There was so much to learn and I made a lot of mistakes. The one thing that I fostered at the time and it is paying off today (my kids are now 20 and 22) was communicating with them. We have an open line of communication about any/all topics. They come to me with issues and struggles which has helped me remain an active part of their life.

    Thanks for sharing,
    Jennifer

    1. Welcome to the blog, Jennifer – good to have you over! 🙂

      Glad you liked the post, and yes, don’t we all wish for that! But I guess certain things are never meant to be and it’s all a self-learning curve.

      Absolutely! Communicating with your kids, right from the time they are young, goes a long way. It matters to them as well to know that their parents are concerned and they have a sense of belonging, especially a must for teens.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your experiences with us 🙂

      BTW – You have such a lovely picture of yours at your blog, so do add your Gravatar here – would be nice to see you 🙂

  22. Hi Harleena Mam,
    Its a great post as usual. To be a good parent is really a tough job.
    Thanks a lot for sharing this informative infograph with us.
    In my case, my parents were very strict on us but today’s I realize that they were never wrong on their point. If that day, they would not be strict on us then there may be the chances to adopt some bad habits.
    Yes, it is most necessary to having a good communication between the kids and parents so they can understand each other in a very well manner and also they will never hesitate to share their feelings and thoughts.
    Although a superb article again mam.
    Have a great day 🙂

    Naveen

    1. Hi Naveen,

      Glad you liked the post, and yes, it’s certainly not easy parenting kid’s, though it has it’s own joys too 🙂

      I can understand what you mean, and I am glad you now know why they were strict with you earlier. I think that is the age when disciplining is done, and the training is what children often don’t like, but I think a little is required. Not too much, as that brings in the communication gaps.

      Yes, communication is essential so that both sides are able to share their feelings and there is transparency in the relationship between parents and their kids.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views, even though you aren’t a parent yet – appreciate that 🙂

  23. Hi Harleena,

    Thank you for putting this wonderful post together and for sharing the infographic. It has a lot of great advice for us. Oh my goodness, yes parenting is a tough job. I wish it came with a manual but we have to do the best we can and do what we feel is right. My thing is to what my parents didn’t do. Not that they were bad parents but there wasn’t a lot of communication and very few moments when we were together as a family. Especially when we were teens.

    I would have to say I’m a strict parent. When my kids younger (14-17 years old) I did not let them go to parties or anywhere I thought there would be trouble. Today they still have rules to follow and my 18 year old still has a curfew. The 20 and 21 year old not so much but I always remind them to make good decisions when they’re out and about with friends.

    They good thing is they all communicate and share what’s going on in their lives. I give them my opinon and share any experiences I had to explain my thoughts and hope they listen.

    The 20 year old has thrown the “I’m an adult now” response but my reply is “you live in my house, you follow my rules”. He has no where to go so he’s pretty much stuck :). You know there is always one who will try to rebel, LOL.

    Rules and curfew aside we have a great relationship. It makes me happy that they still want to hang out with us. We still have movie nights and my favorite part is when we’re in the kitchen just hanging around laughing, eating and carrying on the way they do. Not many of my friends can say that because their kids are off own their own. I don’t know how long it will last but I’m going to enjoy every minute of it for as long as it does. 🙂

    I hope you’re having a great week so far Harleena!

    Cori.

    1. Hi Cori,

      Glad you liked the infographic post and could relate to it, which I knew you would, being such a wonderful Mom yourself 🙂

      I wish there was a manual too…lol…but I think most of us learn through hit and trial, or experiences we go through or read and learn from all over. You are right, many parents are like that and we cannot blame them for they were perhaps raised that ways, so that’s just what they follow with their kids. I guess the times have changed and the generation nowadays is more receptive, if the parents make the effort to communicate and reach out to connect with them. The distance that was there earlier between the kids and their parents is much less now, isn’t it?

      I’m a lot like you Cori, and I think it’s good to have one strict parent, keeps the balance! Our kids must be hating us…lol…but that’s alright because one day when they grow up, they’d realize why we did, what we did. I know you got teens all ages – all shades your end! I’d definitely go with the house rules, discipline, and following certain family norms, and I am glad my kid’s follow that too. Perhaps if you start them young, they learn quicker with age.

      I agree with you there, as parents we can best guide them by sharing our experiences and views, with the hope they listen and follow. And I think most kids do, unless there are serious communication gaps between the parents and kids, when it can turn the other way round.

      Lol…SO much like my elder one, who is the same age nearly, though in some cases she won’t take the decision like a young adult, when she should, while at other times, she takes it all on her own, only to announce it later to us. Complex age for them too, but glad we understand them as parents who’ve gone through the same phase.

      True, and that bond which is created, where you are a friend and a guide for your kids is how it should be. Have your friend’s etc, but do come home and share with your parents too, so that they know – I wish all kids and young teens understand that, as it’s a great way to connect with each other.

      Mine just hop in to taste the food…lol…as they are more into their studies and coaching presently, but that part we make up during the weekends or the television time we share. Oh yes…enjoy these precious moments for very soon each one is going to go their way, so our time with them is limited too.

      Thanks for stopping by to share your experiences with us, which I know would help more parents. Have a nice week as well 🙂

  24. Thanks for sharing this wonderful tutorial about parenting and it will help all who are either already become parents or soon going to be parents.

    I love the infographics most and downloaded to paste it on my room wall to read and think about to rectify my mistakes while teaching or guiding to my little princess.

    I love to read other related posts on the same topic to become an ideal father.
    Hats off to your post.

    1. Hi Mohinder,

      You are most welcome, and yes, the aim to write this parenting post was to help existing parents, or those who are about to become parents too. Well, even the youngsters can take cues from this and relate to their parents and the way they are raised, isn’t it?

      That’s wonderful indeed, and I am sure you’d follow what works best from it for you and your family to raise your little one to become a beautiful young lady one day.

      There are LOTS of post on family and parenting, if you check the niches right on top, and many links are given even within this post, which I am sure would help you become a better parent too.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts with us 🙂

  25. The info graphic was awesome. It opened my eyes when I read the one about tv. It stated that 34% of ads and commercials were for sugary cereals. Therefore, more exercise for kids and less television was a great solution.

    1. Welcome to the blog Luis! 🙂

      Glad you liked the infographic and could relate to it – yes, it indeed says a lot, something that most parents need to pay attention to, isn’t it? Limit their television time and spend more time with them, either playing or exercising, or just being with them works well.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views 🙂

      BTW – Do use your Gravatar or profile picture, so we can see who we are talking to – just a friendly suggestion.

  26. Hello Madam Harleena,

    I nearly refrained from reading this post. I have had parenting as far as parenting is concern. Growing up and being raised by various individuals especially by my aunties has brought in low self esteem.
    But reading this post of yours is the best thing that has ever happened to me. At least I know how to go about things when I have my own kids.

    1. Welcome to the blog Kabie! 🙂

      I can understand what you mean, and it certainly isn’t easy if you have not had good parenting experiences in the past. Yes, someone else raising you is never the same as your parents raising you, but perhaps there were reasons for this and your aunties tried to do their best, which might not have been good enough.

      Thank you for saying that, and I am sure you’d make a wonderful parent when you have kids, as it’s often seen that those who go through a rough phase, make double the effort and are extra careful with their own kid’s. Thanks for sharing your experiences with us 🙂

      BTW – We’d love to see your picture to be able to connect and relate to you, so do add that up if possible 🙂

  27. Hi Harleena

    Very useful post for both existing parents and would-be as well.

    Parenting is the first platform that can make or a little break the whole life of a kid. If a kid is trained so formally by following the centuries-old ways then he can never keep pace with this fast moving world.

    We need to make our kids adaptive to the most difficult situation to turn every problem into an opportunity and for that positive mindset is must which we can’t create but inspire our kids to follow positive thinking even in the most adverse circumstances.

    Nowadays I am helping my younger daughter in her exam preparation and most of the time she tries to ask me general questions instead of the educational because other than exam session I can’t give her that much time. This is a sign that your kid needs more time and now I make up my mind other than formally guiding and tutoring her I would spend a little free time without any set purpose

    Thanks a lot for sharing that really helped me improve my parenting role.

    1. Hi Mi Muba,

      Glad you liked the post and could relate to it 🙂

      I agree with you there, and there has to be blend of ways to discipline our kid’s so that they take the best of the lot and remain updated with the latest.

      A positive mindset is so essential, for our kids, and even for us as parents. If parents make the efforts to train their kids to take up the challenges of life in a positive way, their kids would be able to face any situation in their lives. But it’s easier said than done, unless efforts are made from both sides, the parents and kid’s. That’s because sometimes the kids are not receptive enough, while at other times, the parents aren’t ready to do this much.

      That’s sweet, and I can understand what you mean. I am sure she must be treasuring the precious moments she has to spend with you, even though you are generally answering her questions, and not tutoring her otherwise. Yes, once you realize that you need to spend more time with her, I hope you go ahead and do that – small things matter 🙂

      I wonder if you read the post – The Father Who Had No Time (link is there within this post, in the end, linked to ‘lack of time and involvement’ – do read it!

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your experiences with us. 🙂

  28. Harleena I’m not a parent, but I definitely understand the responsibilities that a parent has.

    A parent always need to care about his child and at the same time take the right steps for the development of his child.

    Reading out is definitely necessary as it will provide the child with knowledge and at the same time he may start reading regularly in future. For making the child become active, it is necessary to make him play some games.

    A parent can definitely learn a lot from you Harleena. The way you manage your work, your family and other things is something which may motivate many parents.

    I hope that all the parents will read out all the points mentioned by you in this post.

    1. Hi Mohit,

      Thank you for stopping by to comment, even though you aren’t a parent yet. Yes, you’d know about it from your parents I guess, as you see them do most of these things perhaps 🙂

      Absolutely! Parents need to shower their kids with love and care, but they also need to discipline them, so have to be strict at times, even though they don’t want to. I think when kid’s grow up, they understand and appreciate their parents (mostly).

      True. Reading is a good habit, something every child must develop over time, if possible, and those parents who read to their kid’s, help them gain better knowledge and they bond too, just being with each other for a while. I think all kids love games, at least when they are young, and parental participation makes it still better.

      Kind of you to say that, though I am not perfect. But I can definitely share my experiences and help other parents, having gone through this phase. For managing things, one needs to learn the fine art of time management, a little multi-tasking skills, and be very disciplined in your work habits – not tough to accomplish. 🙂

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts with us 🙂

  29. Thanks for the parenting tips. Just goes to show that the most important thing in parenting is love, spending quality time with your children, words of encouragement.

    1. Welcome to the blog Donna! 🙂

      You are most welcome, and glad you liked them 🙂

      Absolutely! There are no two ways about it that loving your children, spending quality time with them, and encouraging them, makes them happy kids and later good humans, and us, responsible parents. Of course, these are just the main factors – parenting isn’t all that easy, though has it’s pleasures too.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views with us 🙂

  30. Hi Harleena,

    This is the most useful post, especially for young busy parents of modern era. They say ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ and we are the modern villages, connecting with all those parents who need tips or advice! 🙂
    Who can know better than those who have raised kids, stumbled on the way and learnt from those experiences that age-old sayings always remain relevant.

    You have rightly pointed out that parenting is the most challenging job yet people take it so lightly and let their children be…realizing too late that their having given a long rope to them at their impressionable age could have made them what they have become. Upbringing makes or mars the personality of a person and it solely rests on the parents. The best gift that parents can give their children is respect for each other. When mutual respect is more of an example before the kids, values are imbibed spontaneously.

    Although all parents try to put in their best but most of the times it is lack of awareness about the right ways of raising a child that could prove harmful. Reading the right books, which very few parents do and getting updated with the real disciplinary strategies are the two basic needs of effective parenting. Most of the tips that you have stressed upon are more than enough yet each child is different and each parent has his or her own way of handling. So they can be molded according to their needs and beliefs.

    I had read that beautiful poem by Dorothy Law Neite as a young mother and was really guided by those thoughts. It has compressed the whole world of guidance for the parents! Thanks for sharing and thanks for writing another wonderful post. Stay blessed and have a nice week. 🙂

    1. Hi Balroop,

      Thank you for your kind words, and I am glad you liked these parenting tips 🙂

      Well said indeed – we are trying to connect with all those who need a little guidance, by sharing all that we went through. I guess our experiences as parents matter, and I am sure if we all share what all we went through here, it would help so many other parents, and to be parents too.

      Agree with you there, parenting IS a challenging job, and no parent should take it for granted. If you’ve brought kids to this world, play your part responsibily, instead of sitting with regrets later. It honestly has no effect later. So, concentrate on your upbringing and parenting skills right from the start if you wish to raise happy and good humans.

      True! Kid’s learn best from what they see and feel. Love and respect is what they can notice at once, and if you are able to imbibe the right values in your kids at a young age, they are bound to follow those right through and pass it on to their kids too (in most of the cases).

      I wish I had the time to read books, Balroop, so I am one guilty parent there! I did read them when I was expecting them, and when they were toddlers. But now, over time, I read a lot online and visit other parenting sites, as and when time permits, as that helps us remain updated with the latest, and find new ways to parent our kids. Of course, eventually we’d do what works best for us as each child and family is different, but taking cues always helps.

      Yes, it is an evergreen poem and says a lot. Thanks so much for sharing your words of wisdom with us, which would help so many other parents. Have a nice week ahead as well 🙂

  31. With my kids, I help them to build their own value system that they will stand by anytime.

    1. Welcome to the blog and to the ABC, Vee! 🙂

      Interesting name! Or is it a short name?

      That’s another way to parent your kid’s, though it can only be done with older kid’s I think. The younger lots have to be first taught the values, and then allowed to build their own, related to that, isn’t it?

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views with us 🙂

      BTW – Do use your real picture or Gravatar, as it’s always nicer to connect with a real person – we can always relate better that way. Just a friendly suggestion, though required for the ABC 🙂

  32. once again a best article .these tips were not applied very much on me .my parents are very strict. I don’t know when I talked to my father in childhood 🙂 he is so strict .overall these tips will atleast help us for next generation 🙂
    Thank you

    1. Hi Zain,

      Thank you for your kind words 🙂

      Sorry to hear that you have very strict parents, though I think a little strictness, especially with teens your age, is required!

      Jokes apart, perhaps you can make the first move and start the conversation with your father – surprise him! I am sure he’d be open for talks, just not finding the time for it.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views with us 🙂

  33. Hi Harleena,

    What a beautiful post. Being a parent is the best job one can ever have. I love the infographic you have placed here for younger children.

    There are many things we need to do with our kids, especially when they get older. We have to encourage them. My daughter became a cheerleader when she was in High School. Personally I cringed at that thought of being subservient to the boys playing football. But I never let her know. I went to every game to see her. It was a positive thing for her so I stood by her side and cheered her on.

    The most important thing we can do for older children is communication. They have to know that no matter what mistakes they make, they need to come to us, not their friends. We can set up a verbal contract that they won’t get in trouble if they have done something wrong and came to us.

    It did turn my hair grey, but I got through those teen years doing this. My daughter felt safe telling me anything, even the bad stuff.

    Thanks for addressing the most important job in the world.

    -Donna

    1. Hi Donna,

      Glad you liked the post and infographic, and could relate to it so well 🙂

      Absolutely! Being a parent is both, challenging, but such a joy too. Oh yes…a never ending job…lol…and I think parenting never really ends, even once our kids are grown up and on their own. Don’t we still need our parents, at this age, to guide us, though differently now.

      Trust you to do that, and I am sure it must’ve boosted your daughter’s morale such a lot. Just knowing that you are with her, can do wonders. This is one aspect most parents forget, to encourage them and be with them.

      I agree about the communication part, and the more you talk, the better your relationship becomes with your kids. True! But sometimes they just prefer their friend’s 🙁 I guess it depends on what the issue is, sometimes friend’s can suggest better, though eventually any talk is ok to have with parents, we need to make such channels with them so they are free to discuss anything with us, isn’t it?

      Grey, and then the lovely color you have now…lol…you surely have seen ALL shades, being a Granny too now (though you don’t look it one bit!) Your daughter is blessed and lucky to have you as her mom.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your parental words of wisdom with us 🙂

  34. Hi Harleena,
    Love this poem. Ever parent should place it in an area to read it every day. Tip number 8 is one of the most important to me. Kids see who and what there parents are that plays a big part in who they may become.

    As for me yes, I did use many of these tips when raising my girls. I also found setting the boundaries and putting a touch of fear in them helped when they reached those teen yes when you ask your self, “What was I thinking when I decided to have kids?” LOL

    Love what you have done with your site.
    Debbie

    1. Hi Debbie – good to have you back 🙂

      Glad you liked the poem, something that I’ve always loved too. Yes, read and follow I would add!

      Agree with you there, and as parents we have to play the role models that they look up to. We know they’d do just what we do, so we better be good!

      I am sure you must’ve, for the wonderful Mom that you are. I think setting boundaries is a way of disciplining them, though it doesn’t last too long, just till they are grown up enough to follow and understand. For us too, we are almost coming to an end with it. Lol…oh yes, I can relate to that common questions most parents must be asking themselves!

      Thanks for your kind words of appreciation, Debbie, though we are still a work in progress, with lots more to do. Have a nice week ahead, and keep coming! 🙂

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