Parenting well is a fascinating topic that may be explored for days on end. Even that difficult of a question, "What makes someone a good parent?" cannot be answered. However, we decided to do our little research on what abilities are cherished the most and are seen as necessary for every parent in order to be successful at raising their kids. Here is our list of top 5 important qualities a parent should have.
Being able to communicate with your kids
Kids sometimes go through different stages of their growing up and they experience the new world in different ways. However, one’s ability to communicate is very important and even if the individual is going through some changes, the parents should be able to be part of this phase. Not only that, but also the flexibility of every parent to be able to stay present in their child’s life is of vital importance and shouldn't be overlooked.
The fact that each child develops at a different rate should not be disregarded. Parents frequently make comparisons between their kids and other kids and often this can lead to bad results in their child-parent relationship. And this might lead to the young ones to stop sharing with their parents.
Admit Your Wrongs
Even if it might sound ironic, a parent should show their mistakes and stand behind them in order to be good people in their children’s eyes. After all, there is no such a thing as “perfect human being” and your kids need to know that.
Parents who can accept their errors are respected by their children. They reject the antiquated belief that a parent is always correct just because they are a parent and have more experience and rights, and that a child should acknowledge that. Children don't require some impossible standard. When a parent acknowledges their failures, it gives the kids the confidence that they can succeed as well, even if they make mistakes and can learn from them. They value parents who can talk to you calmly and who accept their children's inadequacies and mistakes for what they are. They contend that doing so teaches kids to take responsibility for their actions and equips them with the fortitude to bounce back from setbacks. Contrarily, when parents are overly demanding, harsh, and unwilling to tolerate their children's faults, it causes them to feel a tremendous deal of shame and discontent and damages their confidence.
Show That You Trust Them
If you feel like your kid can’t take responsibility or is not very organized, maye this is a result of not letting them grow. Sometimes parents forget that when you are young, you are clumsy and learn with every mistake you make. With that being said, it is important to give quite important tasks to your child/children and show that you trust them to achieve it.
Of course there is the other side of this problem - giving too much responsibility to someone who still doesn’t know how to handle it. You can start off with giving small tasks that are easier to achieve and still they might need your guidance. Showing that you have faith in them and also that even though you believe in them, they can still reach out for help, this is what will create a good character. Not only that, but having those kinds of interactions will make your bond only stronger.
Give them Space When It Is Needed
Even though we said that you have to build a strong relationship that both sides can trust and share with each other, everyone needs their personal space. Not to mention, that building healthy boundaries even with your children and showing them how it is done is probably one of the most important tasks a parent should take.
Sometimes as a parent, you want to shield your kid from the outside world because you love them and don’t want them to get hurt. However, such behavior can only harm them in the long run. In fact, this step can be seen as a form of putting your trust in them. Because even though they are very worried, you know they can get through their hardships - that way they can face the outside world stronger than before. ANd this also can be achieved through good communication and gestures of showing your faith in them.
Share an activity or hobby together
This might sound a bit overused, but it works every time. Whenever a parent shares an interest or a hobby with their child, they experience bonding like no other. Not only do they share the same passion, but also they can relate to you. Especially when both children and parents have a difficult time understanding each other, having a common ground such as a shared activity they enjoy, they can start to understand each other better.
And there is no need to worry if you don’t have a hobby or interest in common that you know of. Actually, it can be even more beneficial if you start something together. Something that sounds interesting for all of the participants can make wonderful results in getting you closer.
However, if you think these tips won't help you, you can always check even more interesting strategies on how to be a good parent by trying an online parenting course.
Summary
In conclusion, the journey of parenthood is a continuous learning experience that requires dedication and growth. By embracing the essential qualities we have explored - empathy, patience, adaptability, communication, and resilience - parents can create a nurturing and supportive environment for their children to thrive. Remember, no one is perfect, but striving to embody these qualities will undoubtedly make a positive impact on your parenting journey. So, let us embark on this beautiful adventure together, armed with the knowledge that being a great parent is within our reach. And enrolling in an online parenting program is a great start.
