How To Practice Positive Parenting With Your Child

Positive parenting isn’t necessarily a new approach to raising children. However, it’s gained traction over the last few years thanks to the benefits. Studies have shown that positive parenting can boost a child’s self-esteem, help them do better in school, and improve their overall mental health. 

Additionally, when you practice positive parenting, you’re serving as a role model for your children. When you treat them with kindness, respect, and compassion, they’re likely to treat others the same way. 

Of course, positive parenting isn’t about ignoring problems or avoiding healthy discipline. So, how can you make sure you’re getting it right? 

Let’s cover some positive parenting practices you can use right away with your child. 

What Is Positive Parenting? 

Before you dive into the world of positive parenting, you have to know what it looks like and how it will fit with your family. 

Positive parenting focuses on the relationship between you and your child. It is the practice of recognizing what your child needs and providing it in a caring, loving, and kind way. That doesn’t mean giving them every little thing they want. Positive parenting doesn’t mean there’s no discipline or rules. 

However, instead of “traditional” punishments, positive parenting focuses on how you can guide your child to make the right choices. You’ll learn how to effectively communicate with your child, and they’ll learn what’s necessary to communicate right back. When they’re able to express their needs in healthy, effective ways, there is less likely to be any discord in your relationship. 

Positive parenting also focuses on the importance of healthy boundaries. Boundaries can improve just about any relationship, but they’re especially effective for parents and kids. When your child knows the boundaries that are in place, they have a choice to stay within those boundaries. When they don’t, there are consequences that need to be laid out ahead of time so they understand exactly how they will be disciplined for crossing a line. 

How to Introduce Positive Parenting

So, how can you be a more positive parent? You don’t have to completely change your parenting style to start introducing aspects of positive parenting into your life. 

Start by communicating with your child more often. Talk to them about their day, or get involved in their interests and hobbies. Open communication builds trust and intimacy. Your child will also feel respected and understood, and they’re more likely to offer the same respect, in return. 

Set limits by giving your child choices. When you dictate every little choice in their life, they’re not going to be able to grow like they should when it comes to problem-solving and critical thinking. They might also feel stifled. While you’re still in charge of the choice, give your child some options you’re okay with for them to choose from. Giving them this bit of responsibility while still having limits in place can provide more balance to your relationship. 

Finally, praise them for the good things you see. Far too often, parents are quick to focus on the negative behaviors of their children. You might want to discipline your child for behaving poorly, or you might pick out something they did wrong. Instead of dwelling on those things, make sure you’re also pointing out what they get right. 

Celebrating your child’s strengths will boost their self-confidence and make it easier for them to stay on a positive track. 

Positive parenting is all about guidance. It doesn’t mean there will never be setbacks or that you’ll never get frustrated. But, by putting these ideas into practice, you can enjoy a calmer, gentler, and more respectful relationship with your child.  Reach out to learn more about family therapy or child therapy.