There is no doubt about it. Raising kids is hard. However, it isn’t impossible, especially as there have been many parents before you that have successfully raised children, and their proven strategies can help you to raise the best children possible. While kids may need more work at the start, the work of a parent never ends. Here at Malones Early Learning Center, we are all about self-care and deep connections, so we have tips to help parents during every state of their child’s life.

Take Care of Yourself When Pregnant

The first time that a mother can really care for her child is when she is pregnant, so it is important to practice self-care during this time. Make sure to eat the right foods, exercise, and avoid harmful habits like smoking and drinking.

When Baby Gets Home

Leaving the hospital with your first child can be daunting for parents, but you can set yourself up for success by using a proper car seat and planning ahead of time by preparing the baby's food, blankets, and sleeping arrangement so you don’t have to stress about it when you arrive home.

Avoid Diaper Rash

When you are getting used to having a newborn around, proper diapering is necessary. Change diapers as soon as a bowel movement occurs and gently clean the area with mild soap and water to avoid pain and diaper rash.

Accept a Helping Hand

Remember that you are not expected to be able to handle everything when you have infants. So, Today’s Parent recommends accepting help whenever you can get it. If you have family nearby, and they want to help, allow them to babysit from time to time so you can retain your sanity.

Prevent Tantrums

As your children become toddlers, they will test their limits a bit more and that may result in tantrums. They will want to get their way, so be in charge but don’t be overbearing. Choose your battles, encourage communication, and offer options so you can remain flexible.

Be a Role Model

As your children get older and begin to comprehend what is going on around them, it will be essential that you are a role model and act as you would like to see them act. Set goals for yourself and prioritize education, even going as far as obtaining your master’s degree, which will show that becoming a success in life requires true dedication.

Talk With Your Child

Before you know it, your kids will be in grade school and middle school, and they will have a lot of questions. It is important not to ignore them. Talk with them on a regular basis and answer all questions honestly and without judgment.

Help With Homework

Your child will start to get a lot of homework during this time and it is important to help when you can so they can succeed in school. Remember not to do the homework for them, but your guidance will keep them on the right track and your child will appreciate the support.

Have Family Meetings

As your kids become more independent, your communication should evolve on a regular basis with family meetings, according to The Center for Parenting Education. During them, ask if anyone has any questions and give everyone a chance to speak. You can make these meetings fun by having dinner or going out for ice cream.

Set Rules and Consequences

The older your children get, the more they will try to push the limits as they become more independent. As parents, set specific rules, such as when they should be home every night, and set consequences, such as being grounded, and stick to it.

Respect Boundaries

While you want to remain in control, it is also important for parents to respect boundaries. You need to let your teenagers experience new things and learn from their mistakes. Intervene if necessary.

Allow Independence

Once your kids move onto college, you will really want to respect their boundaries. If they are staying on campus, make sure to give them some space and not visit constantly. This is their first experience living their life without your help, so let them be and watch them thrive.

The mission of Malones Early Learning Center is to provide high quality, accessible, affordable, and educational child care services to families. Call 618-985-5911.