Kids can’t absorb too many rules without turning off completely. Forget arguing about little stuff like fashion choices and occasional potty language. Focus on the things that really matter — that means no hitting, rude talk, or lying.
Children crave limits, which help them understand and manage an often confusing world. Show your love by setting boundaries so your kids can explore and discover their passions safely.
Your toddler’s mission in life is to gain independence. So, when she’s developmentally capable of putting her toys away, clearing her plate from the table, and dressing, let her. Giving a child responsibility is good for her self-esteem (and your sanity!).
The greatest untapped resource available for improving the lives of our children is time with Dad — early and often. Kids with engaged fathers do better in school, problem-solve more successfully, and generally cope better with whatever life throws at them.
Give young kids a chance to find their own solutions. When you lovingly acknowledge a child’s minor frustrations without immediately rushing in to save her, you teach her self-reliance and resilience. Enforcing limits is really about teaching kids how to behave in the world and helping them to become competent, caring, and in control.
Get started when he’s a newborn; babies love listening to the sound of their parents’ voices. Cuddling up with your child and a book is a great bonding experience that will set him up for a lifetime of reading.
Let your child choose an activity where you hang out together for 10 or 15 minutes with no interruptions. There’s no better way for you to show your love. Your children will probably not remember anything that you say to them, but they will recall the family rituals — like bedtimes and game night — that you do together.