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Positive parenting is an important step in the prevention of child abuse. Yet, being a good parent does not always come naturally. Follow these tips to become the best parent you can be:
- Educate Yourself. Children need to know that they are special and loved. Learn about your child's development process by reading parenting magazines or talking with your pediatrician. This will help you have reasonable expectations about what your child can and cannot do.
- Take a Time Out. When the big and little problems of everyday life pile up on you to the point where you feel overwhelmed and out of control, don't take it out on your child. Instead, take a deep breath, count to 10 or 20, punch a pillow, munch an apple or turn on some relaxing music.
- Boost Your Child's Self-esteem. Help your children build healthy self-esteem. Start when they are babies. Let them know when they do well and tell them how much you love and believe in them.
- When Your Baby Cries. A baby should never be punished for crying and you should never, never, never, shake a baby. Remember that a baby cries when he or she needs something - whether that be a diaper change, a bottle, a nap or a cuddle. When you have tried everything to calm a crying baby, call a friend, relative, your doctor or The 211 BigBend Parent HelpLine, 1-800-FLA-LOVE.
- Discipline with Love. All children need guidance and discipline, not as punishment, but to set reasonable limits. Remind your children of the consequences of their actions and provide meaningful rewards for desirable actions. Remember, babies and toddlers should never be the subjects of discipline. They are too young to reason with and absolutely do not make any connection between physical punishment and their behavior.
- Monitor Your Monitors. Watching violent films on TV or playing violent electronic games can harm young children. Not only can it scare them, but it can also teach children that aggression is a good way to handle frustrations and solve problems.
- Encourage Open Communication. From an early age, let your children know that they can always tell you about anything that makes them feel uncomfortable, angry or sad. This relationship will help you be a better parent as your children grow into adulthood.
- You're It. Spend time playing with your children. Play a game of tag, take a walk around the block, play catch or read a book together. These activities can help you bond with your children and keep your family physically and mentally fit.
- Teen Talk. When you get angry with your teen, instead of yelling, encourage your young adult to listen to you by first listening to them. Allow independence for their choices, but set clear and reasonable limits - before misbehavior occurs. When rules are broken, take privileges away - remember to set a time for them to be restored. This will help your teen feel that they have something to gain by behaving.
- Carefully Select Caregivers. Interview potential caregivers for your child. Observe them interacting with your child. Only leave your child with someone that you know well and trust. Make sure your caregiver can handle any special needs that your child may have. Also double check their discipline techniques as well as their ways to manage the stress sometimes associated with a crying baby or active child. Remind caregivers to never, never, shake a baby.
Call 1-800-FLA-LOVE (352-5683).
It's the 211 BigBend Parent HelpLine, a 24-hour parent toll-free number that puts parents in touch with a statewide network of parenting resources and family support agencies. It is a place where parents can turn for help and advice.
* Prevent Child Abuse America, Chicago, IL
Copyright© 2002-2003 State Of Florida
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