Raising kids is one of the most challenging and fulfilling jobs in the world - there's no school where we can learn the best techniques for parenting, right? Experience is our best teacher.
To dear our dearest Althea, Mama and Papa's constant wish for you to become a God-fearing, obedient and confident woman. Stay humble, sweet and loving.
Flashback to years 2006-2008, she was just a small baby with a bubbly personality. She used to sing and talk a lot, often tagged along everywhere we go...
Now as she enters the teenage years, we are noticing some changes in her behavior. With that said, we have to be extra cautious in handling her daily behavior, taking one step at a time. In fact, as a mom, I realized a lot of things. I appreciate all the things my own parents has done for me during my younger years. Their parenting style is hard to copy but I am trying my best to apply some of their most effective ways on raising children. Indeed, parenting is a continuous learning process.
What we love about having a teenager is that, we found a new best friend slash travel buddy and soon shopping buddy, though Papa loves shopping more than I do hahaha
Look at these photos:
I've been reading a lot of parenting articles nowadays. I would to share some of the tips I have read in the website kidshealth.org.
On Boosting Child's Self-Confidence
I realized that yelling a child too much has a long term effect on his behavior. I tend to shout when angry and frustrated. Now, my husband and I had a pact that we should avoid shouting to our children for it ruins their self-esteem.
According to the article "9 Steps to More Effective Parenting", avoid making loaded statements of using words as weapons. Comments like "What a stupid thing to do!' or "You act more like a baby than your little brother!" cause damage just like physical punishments do. Instead of yelling, choose your words carefully and be compassionate. Let them know that everyone makes mistakes and assure them that you still love them, even when you don't love their behavior.
Set Limits and Be Consistent
We (temporarily) grounded our daughter for using her phone. She can only use the laptop or phone for researches.
It is really important to establish house rules to help kids understand your expectations and develop self-control. Some common rules include: no TV until homework or school project is done, no hitting, no name-calling, etc.
Show Unconditional Love
We always assure our children that we love them no matter what happens, no ifs or buts as they say.
Making time for your kids (especially if you are a working parent), being a good role model, complementing rather than criticizing, maintaining an open and effective communication, and knowing your own needs and limitations as parents are the other tips for effective child-rearing.
I have written similar article before, for more tips, read Parenting a Pre-Teen.
How about you moms and dads, what are your experiences as parents, especially in raising teenagers.? Shout them out in the comment section. :)
