Effective Parenting Strategies

Some important rules to follow when interacting with your children...

  • Communicate clearly, make sure they understand you
  • Avoid yelling/screaming
  • Do not repeat yourself more than one time
  • Provide plenty of praise for good behavior
  • Reward good behavior immediately
  • Do not make too many requests at once
  • Do not try to correct every behavior, address only the most important
  • Be consistent (between caregivers and within yourself)
  • Follow through with giving consequences (no empty threats)
  • Give feedback on behavior during planning conversation times (when no one is stressed)
  • Be flexible to a degree (don’t change rules, but bend them when appropriate and provide a rationale)
  • Do not say mean, hurtful things
  • Be a good example (“Do as I say, not as I do” Does not work)
  • Be a good listener (make sure you understand, don’t be critical, avoid talking over the talker)
  • Provide opportunities for safe discussion (assure a nonjudgemental stance)
  • Plan fun activities
  • Monitor use of electronics and social media respectfully (no snooping or hacking-have open conversations)

Find a way to monitor how you are doing (via report card, therapist, child feedback, ask relatives or friends)