There is one simple adjustment to a more positive parenting approach. Actually there are several. If you are like me, you can naturally think of many changes you could make to positively impact the atmosphere of your home.
I need to be more patient for sure. A smile should visit my face more frequently. Teaching in a calm and controlled tone is essential. I think we know all of these tips, even though they are not always easy to follow-through with in the moment. I will continue to work on these until I consistently do it better. If you love the idea of positive parenting, you might love these positive reinforcement ideas as well as what I have to offer today.
The one adjustment I am talking about twists a negative direction for a child into a positive one.
One Simple Adjustment to a More Positive Parenting Approach
Confession: This is a tip I used to be really good at. I’m sharing it today because I need to get back on track. It was a more natural approach to me as I was raising toddlers, but now that my kids are older I’ve taken a more negative avenue. Sometimes my blog is simply a chance for you to peek into a conversation I’m having within my own head – a reminder to parent the way I know is most effective.
Here’s the trick for making interactions more positive: Ask for the behavior you want rather than the behavior you do not want.
Let’s lay out some pretty simple examples:
- “Sit Down, Please.” vs. “Stop jumping on the couch.”
- “We look with our eyes only.” vs. “Don’t touch.”
- “Have loving hands.” vs. “Don’t hit your sister.”
- “Quiet voices.” vs. “Stop yelling.”
- “Stay beside me.” vs. “Don’t run around the restaurant.”
If you want an overall more positive interaction with your kids, consider this one simple adjustment to a more positive parenting approach. I do say it’s simple, but it does take mental energy to make the shift. I do believe it will improve the mood of household to keep things more constructive. Our can feel like they are doing everything wrong. These years are a time of teaching, so we need to approach our kids in grace and with clear direction.
Want More Positive Parenting Ideas?
15 Positive Reinforcement Ideas
One Parenting Phrase that Will Get You the Response You Want