Times are changing and so are the methods of parenting. Positive parenting is one of the best solutions to put an end to the draining power struggles with your kids, and help you to bond better with them.
Rebecca Eanes, the author of "Positive Parenting — An Essential Guide," says, "Positive parenting is a philosophy rooted in connection. It isn't a method of discipline, but an entirely different way of relating to children that allows us to maintain a strong relationship with them through the ages and stages of childhood while still raising kind and responsible people."
When a child doesn’t listen to you, it’s not because they want to disobey you. Instead, it’s because of some reasoning that they have, which we fail to understand. So, it’s crucial that we start dealing with them as individuals and give them the chance to have a voice. You cannot control your child’s attitude forever, so why not start explaining to them the difference between right and wrong from the beginning?
Some of the positive parenting techniques that can help you and your child are:
Cause and effect
Your child might not be grown up enough to understand the consequences of all their acts. So, explain it to them. Suppose your child hits someone, tell them that they have hurt their friend and should help them feel better. When you stop your child moving on from a specific activity, explain the 'why' behind it.
Listen to your child
Children also have opinions, and when you respect them, they feel valued. So, give them a chance to speak, and let them explain themselves. Kids under three years of age usually don't have the capacity to reason. So, first, try to explain it to them and then use distraction techniques.
Eye to eye contact
You must know that to prove your point to another adult, it is vital to have eye-to-eye contact. It is no different when it comes to dealing with your child. Physically, get down to their eye level. When you speak to your child by making direct eye contact, you show compassion, sincerity and respect.
Treat them as individuals
Do not assume that your child is too young to understand. If you can explain in age-appropriate language, they will surely follow. If you are speaking to a three year old about the danger of candies, use short sentences and take pauses to enable them to grasp your words.
Use time-in instead of time-out
Instead of the age-old technique of time-out, bring your child close to you when you find things moving out of your control. Do not seclude them, but try to console them; let them cry in your lap and not alone in a corner. This will strengthen their trust in you. Also, rephrase your 'do not; with 'do' and 'no' with 'yes.' Instead of saying: 'Don't jump on the sofa,' try saying 'yes, you can jump around when we are in the garden,' or 'please sit on the sofa.'
RELATED: Time Outs Are Timed Out, The CPS Rules Positive Parenting Is In
Look at your attitude
Children learn more from what they see than what you say. So, you need to keep a positive attitude. On their first day of school, you cannot express your apprehension if you want the process to be smooth for them. Also, try keeping your word. Children have a sharp memory, and if they find you faltering on your words, they will follow your example
Positive parenting is all about sharing mutual respect with your child. Initially, it might be challenging to implement some of the positive parenting techniques, but with patience, your child will understand and reciprocate.