How to be a patient parent
Being a patient parent is not always easy, but it is one of the most important things you can do for your child’s development. Children need love, attention, guidance, and structure, and as a parent, you are the main provider of these things. However, it can be difficult to remain patient and calm when your child is misbehaving or challenging you in some way.
From the desk of Little Elly’s experts on childcare and development, we’ll bring to you some tips for being a patient parent and creating a supportive and loving environment for your child.
Being the first role models of your child, you need to show them empathy: Try to understand your child’s perspective. It can be easy to get frustrated when your child is misbehaving or not listening, but it is important to try to see things from their point of view. Understanding what is causing your child to act in a certain way can help you respond in a more patient and empathetic manner.
A child’s brain is an ocean of curiosity and thoughts. To be a patient parent you need to develop a habit of active listening. When your child is speaking to you, make sure to give them your full attention. Listen to what they have to say, and acknowledge their thoughts and feelings. Ask questions to show that you are interested in what they have to say, and respond to their words with kindness and understanding. Through this, you can not only understand your child’s perspective but also share your values and experiences.
Children also need structure and routine, and setting clear boundaries and rules can help provide this. Make sure to consistently enforce these boundaries and rules in a fair and firm manner. While you should be a guardian and regulator, make sure this does not transcend into you imposing authority. As when you impose your authority on a child, you lose their friendship. This will help your child understand what is expected of them, and make it easier for you to be patient and understanding when they do misbehave.
While consistency is important, it is also important to be flexible. Children are constantly growing and changing, and as a parent, you will need to adjust your approach as your child grows and develops. Be open to new ideas and approaches, and be willing to make changes when necessary.
Lastly, in order to be a better parent to your child, you need to also take care of yourself. As a parent, it can be easy to neglect your own needs. But taking care of yourself is crucial for being a patient parent. Make time for yourself to do the things you love, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. A well-rested and happy parent is much more likely to be patient and understanding with their child.
In conclusion, being a patient parent takes practice and effort, but it is well worth it. When you are patient and understanding with your child, you create a supportive and loving environment that will help them grow and develop into a happy and well-adjusted adult. So, take a deep breath, be patient, and enjoy the journey of parenthood.
Remember, there is no fixed way of raising a perfect child, as every child is unique to their feelings, thoughts and experiences. It is on us, as parents, to ensure that our children are exposed to the right environment, values and opportunities.
These are also reflected in the way the curriculum of Little Elly, a home away from home, are drawn.