5 of the Best Parenting Tips

Parenting can be tough – we all know this, but not all of us know exactly what to do to make it easier. There is no one set rule for all children. Every child different and therefore has different needs. But, no matter what your these needs are, there are some things that you can do to give your child the best chance at a happy childhood and life.

1. Recognise your blessing
Children truly are a blessing (even though they may not always act like it). They are not your property or accessories; they do not belong to you. What is most important is to enjoy, nurture, and support them. It’s not about you anymore, it is about them. And remember, not everyone has the ability, whether physically or financially, to have children – you are privileged to be a parent.

2. Let your child blossom authentically
In the words of Khalil Gibran, children “come through you but not from you”. Your children are not extensions of yourself – you need to let them be and become who they are naturally. Your children should not have to live life according only to your understanding and perception of it. Encourage their uniqueness.

3. Show your child true love
Love does not mean saying yes to everything your child asks for, nor does it mean spoiling them with materialistic tokens of ‘love’. Nothing will have any value if you do this. Showing your child true love, if giving them what they need, and doing what is in their best interest, even if it would be easier to just submit to their demands.

4. Don’t rush them into growing up
One of the greatest gifts you can give you child is their childhood. There is no need to hurry the process of growing up – in fact it can be very detrimental if a child is pushed into a stage of life when they are not mentally prepared for it. Remember, no matter how mature your child may be, they are just that – a child.

5. Create a healthy environment
It is very important that your child is raised in an environment where they can feel comfortable, safe and loved. Without this, your child may struggle to blossom. If you set an example of self-consciousness, fear and stress, how can you expect your child to be joyful and at peace.