Not all soulmates are made equal
It is no secret that parenting is a challenge. If you speak to any parents you know, they'll probably tell you how much they worry about whether they are getting it right with their kids. But even though the very best parents get things wrong from time to time, everyday actions can serve as big learning moments.
Curious? Check out this gallery to find out more.
One thing that kids as young as pre-school age pick up on is inconsistency with rules. They can tell when rules are being applied unfairly, and they notice when adults say one thing and then do another.
Unfortunately, inconsistency around rules and the way that they are applied can make it difficult for kids to feel safe. It can also make it difficult for kids to feel confident placing trust in their parents.
In order to properly nurture children's emotional development, experts advise communicating clear rules with consistent consequences.
Kids of all ages thrive on routine. Studies show that routines are important for children's development. Even very young children tend to notice small changes to their daily schedules.
In addition to their symbolic significance, daily routines can also serve a practical purpose, such as showing kids the importance of doing chores.
Setting and maintaining a routine for your children doesn't need to be complicated. It can be as simple as reading a book before bedtime or listening to music during breakfast.
Kids are very perceptive and can pick up on the slightest tension between their parents. They pay attention to small shifts in communication, as well as their parents' body language.
Unfortunately, conflict between adults in the home can create a tense atmosphere, which can cause kids to feel confused or emotionally unsafe.
In the event of a conflict between adults, children should be reassured that just because parents sometimes argue, it doesn't mean they don't love each other.
According to one study, 32% of children between the ages of eight and 13 reported feeling "unimportant" when their parents were on their phones during family time.
Unfortunately, between holding down a job and looking after the home, being a present parent requires a level of effort that it is not always possible to give.
Of course, it is unrealistic to expect parents to never be distracted. However, parents might find that reducing distractions, even by a small amount, can go a long way.
Kids also tend to recognize acts of kindness, often more than adults. Indeed, every day kids are watching their parents and often mirroring their behavior.
When children witness their parents helping an elderly neighbor or offering to do a favor for a friend, they internalize that kindness and use it to form their world view.
Kids notice when their parents show affection to one another. It is by witnessing these actions that they learn what love looks like and how to express it.
Even if they do decide from time to time that seeing their parents kiss is embarrassing and complain that it "grosses them out..."
Being physically affectionate toward children is important. Small gestures, such as hugs or holding hands, can have a big impact on a child.
In the same way that kids notice when their parents are distracted, they also notice when their parents are fully present and ready to spend time with them.
With all the pressures of daily life, it can be difficult to carve out time to spend together among just family. Bear in mind, however, that even fleeting family time is better than none.
Small acts such as checking in with kids on the way home from school will not go unnoticed and can help parents and their children feel more connected.
Kids closely observe the way in which their parents show up for the people in their lives, whether it be other family members, friends, colleagues, or neighbors.
When children observe adults offering encouraging words, kids learn to be empathetic. Conversely, negative words and put-downs may teach them to be dismissive.
Of course, nobody is perfect. However, it is worth bearing in mind that empathy is a learned skill, and that kids learn it by observing the adults in their lives interacting with others.
Kids tend to notice when their parents acknowledge their small achievements. Of course, it is standard practice to celebrate the big things, like learning to walk.
Celebrating the smaller wins as children get older, however, is just as important. Exploring opportunities, such as congratulating them when they tidy up after themselves, serves as a useful example.
Certain tasks can be harder for certain children, so acknowledging when they manage to complete certain tasks helps build their self-esteem and confidence.
Last but not least, kids are very in tune with how their parents handle stress. As we know, being emotionally regulated is one of the biggest challenges parents face.
In general, it is best for parents to be upfront about their feelings and allow their children to do the same. Sit with your children as they express how they feel and learn to regulate their emotions themselves.
Sources: (YourTango) (HuffPost)
Things that kids notice more than their parents realize
How observational are your little ones?
LIFESTYLE Parenting
It is no secret that parenting is a challenge. If you speak to any parents you know, they'll probably tell you how much they worry about whether they are getting it right with their kids. But even though the very best parents get things wrong from time to time, everyday actions can serve as big learning moments.
Curious? Check out this gallery to find out more.