Positive Parenting Tips

There is no “one-size fits all” when it comes to parenting, we change and adapt as our children grow. However, following some simple positive parenting tips can help when it comes to your relationship with your child.

Warm, loving interactions
Treat every interaction as an opportunity to connect with your child. Be warm in your expressions, give eye contact, smile and encourage interaction.

Have boundaries, rules & consequences
Children need structure and guidance. Talk to your children about what you expect of them and make sure they understand.

Listen and empathise with your child
Acknowledge your child’s feelings, show them you understand, and reassure them that you are there to help whenever they have problems.

Problem Solving
Help your child to problem solve. Be a good role model and show them how to behave through your own actions. When you work with your children to find solutions, they learn how to deal with difficulties in an appropriate way.

Strengthening the Parent-Child Relationship

Forming a connection with your child is important to developing a strong parent-child relationship. Here are some tips to help with strengthening your relationship with your children.

Tell your child you love them
Of course you love your children, but tell them every day, no matter what age they are. Even on difficult days, let your child know you didn’t like their behaviour but you love them unconditionally. A simple “I love you” can do a lot to strengthen a relationship.

Play together
Play is so important to children’s development. Young children can develop many skills through the power of play. As well as it being fun and helping you develop your relationship with your child, it can help children’s language skills, emotions, creativity, and social skills.

The Department of Education and Playboard NI have developed a range of resources on play for parents with the #PlayMatters campaign.

Be Available
Make time to talk to your child without any distractions, even 10 minutes a day can make a big difference in establishing good communication habits. Turn off the TV, put away technology, and spend some quality time together.

Eat meals together
Eating together as a family sets the stage for conversation. Encourage no technology at the table and enjoy each other’s company.

Listen and empathise
Connection starts with listening. Try and see things from your child’s perspective and foster mutual respect.

Spend one-on-one time with children
If you have more than one child, try and make a point of spending individual time with each of them. Quality, individual time with your child can strengthen your bond, build their self-esteem, and let them know they are valued.