|
When we asked for good parenting tips we received a number that could only be described as love and logic parenting. The overriding theme of these contributions were the importance of words in dealing with your children.
These are the top contributions that show the benefits of love and logic parenting.
- When my kids ask, "Mom?" I try to respond with a positive-sounding, "Yes?" instead of a crabby, "What?!" I think the kids notice the difference in my tone (it's harder to sound crabby or snappy when you're asking, "Yes?") and it makes me feel just a little calmer too. Plus I think that saying "yes" gives the kids the impression that I'm feeling positive and going to do my best to think about their requests and give them what they want if it's possible. By snapping "what?" I think they know I'm just feeling bothered by them asking me something and won't listen as well to what they have to say.
- Make the number of good comments you make to your kids far outweigh the number of negative comments. I often have to correct my kids but they often mention I seem kinder than other parents they see in action.
- Always be aware that the words that you say to your children will be remembered all their lives; either negative or positive. I'm 50 and I still remember my mother saying, "I wish I'd never had you kids!" In my head, I know she didn't mean it, and I've forgiven her, but I've never forgotten. What words of yours will your children remember in 50 years?
- Instead of telling your child what to do and getting a negative response, give your child a choice between a couple of things that you picked out for them. This gives them the opportunity to feel like they have a say in matters and avoids arguments. I have done this with my child, especially when picking out clothes to wear or food to eat and I spend less time fussing with them to get ready or eat their food.
- When disciplining, do not do it in front of the people where the act has been committed, this will give attention to the culprit or embarrass them and make things worse either way. Take them to another room and explain their actions and why it was wrong to do what they did. I have seen this work for my sister and my niece on a regular basis.
As you can see good parenting is really about treating your children like you would like to be treated. Is love and logic parenting your parenting style?
|
