Raising children is one of the toughest yet most fulfilling jobs in the world — and the one for which you might feel the least prepared. It requires a total balance of love, guidance, and understanding. When our children are small, they copy and imitate gestures, they learn from their surroundings, developing skills from everything they see. By engaging in positive parenting, you can help your children do better in school, have fewer behavioral problems, and have stronger mental health. Here are some tips on parenting and childcare to keep in mind to create an environment where your children feel valued, supported, and loved as well as the role of parents, both mother and father, in the moral development of children.

Make time for your children
 

Being a working adult as well as a parent may provide some challenges in terms of time management. It is incredibly important to prioritize quality time with your children so they never feel second to your work or other aspects of your life. Children who are spending more quality time with their families are less likely to participate in risky behaviors. Showing your children that you love and care for them helps to keep them mentally and emotionally strong. It’s important to spend quality one-on-one time with each of them now and again, to build healthier relationships with all your children and encourage their self-worth.

Dedicate your free time to engage in uninterrupted activities that can strengthen the bond between you and your child. Having meals as a family, playing games together, exercising together and more can potentially become the building blocks of trust and communication. By actively listening and engaging in their world, you show them that they matter and that you are there to support and guide them. Your commitment to spending time with your children lays the foundation for a lasting and meaningful relationship. You can also think about ways to share the love with your extended family, whether this means a weekly video call or an annual holiday. 

Be a good role model
 

Children are highly observant and often imitate the behaviors and attitudes they see in their parents. You could compare them to sponges seeing as to how they absorb almost everything they are exposed to. As a parent, you are your child’s first teacher, and your actions often say much more than the words you use. It’s important to think about ways you can be a positive role model for your child as they become more autonomous and independent in adolescence.

Role modeling works in relation to virtually everything – from how you handle emotions such as frustration and anger, to how you respect and relate to other people, to how you respond to stress and cope with difficulties. It also influences patterns such as eating, exercise, how you look after yourself, and problem-solving.

Being a positive role model in your child’s life is one of the most influential ways to shape their values and character. By demonstrating empathy, kindness, and respect in your interactions with others, your children will naturally emulate these qualities as well. So be their mirror so they can look at themselves and be proud of what they see. By practicing the qualities you wish to instill in your children, you become a guiding light in their lives. 

Show them how much you love them 
 

Expressing love and affection is also important in nurturing a strong bond between a parent and child. You could start by saying "I love you" frequently and use positive affirmations to reinforce their sense of self-worth. These seem like such little things, but for children, it makes a world of difference to hear their parents express genuine affection for them. This will also create a safe and nurturing environment where they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment.

You also show love by listening to your child and valuing their needs, wants, and ideas. Additionally, physical expressions of affection, such as hugs, and kisses, provide a sense of security. At the end of the day, there are lots of ways to show your love, and actions that come from the heart set your child on a happy path. 

Notice the good your children do
 

Acknowledging your children's accomplishments and efforts is essential for their self-esteem. Celebrate their achievements, no matter how small, to cultivate a sense of pride and motivation. Praise their positive actions, reinforce their confidence, and encourage them to embrace their strengths. Moreover, actively engage in their interests and hobbies, showing genuine interest and support. By noticing the good in your children, you foster a sense of validation and encouragement that will empower them to reach their full potential.

With this article you now know how to be good role models in shaping your child’s future through these parenting tips. It is always important to acknowledge the good your children do, make time for them and be a good role model to them, as well as show them how much you love them through little acts. With Takaful, you can do just that. Visit us today to learn more about the plans we have to offer you!