Back To Basics Parenting Texas With Christian Parenting Tips And Advice

By Barbara Wilson


We have survived the Christmas break and our little angels are back at school but all that seasonal excitement can play havoc with routine, and an abundance of presents, sweets and treats can also bring some less endearing traits to the fore. If you would like some simple reminders and techniques to get children back on track after the school holidays we have come up with some top tips that will take you Back to Basics Parenting Texas.

Set boundaries. This is depicted in Proverbs 22:6. Note that the more time you spend on teaching your kids how to live, the easier it will be for them to live upright lives. Although most children will not admit it, they really do crave boundaries. As adults, we understand the importance of rules, because God, our Heavenly Father, has equipped us with an entire book that tells us how to live.

Consistency. Closely related to this is consistency. Inconsistency will lead your children to feel insecure so always stick with key disciplines and never threaten a consequence or promise a reward without following through. Always be sure that all care-givers are saying the same thing and enforcing the same rules.

Quality time. Quality time with you is what your children really want so try not to use the television or computer game as a live-in childminder. It is always possible to spend quality time with your child daily, even if it is just a chat on the way to or from school, a sit-down meal together or a bedtime story. Build on this whenever you can for a trusting and rewarding relationship with your child.

Rewards for good behavior. Rewarding good behavior, with praise, quality time, or even a small treat, can be a very positive technique when encouraging the behaviors that you would like to see more of in your child. However, it is very important not to mistake bribery for reward. Avoid giving your child a treat in order to stop them from doing something naughty, as they will soon learn that bad behavior gains them attention or gifts; which is exactly the opposite of what you are hoping to achieve.

A reward must be something that is given after your child has shown particularly good behavior, often when you have agreed in advance that the desired behavior will result in the specific reward. Remember that what most children want is more time with you, so often the best reward could be an extra chapter of their bedtime story or a trip to the park, it doesn't have to involve spending money.

Older children could also build up 'reward points' that may result in an afternoon at the local pool or something similar. The possibilities are endless and this technique can be very effective and really bonding, while boosting your child's self-esteem at the same time.

Be committed to forever. From the moment you decide to have children, you are making a lifelong commitment. It is impossible to be a part-time parent. So although it may be "inconvenient" or "uncomfortable" sometimes, you have to accept the fact that you have children, and that your children literally depend on you for everything. Once you accept and understand this, it will be much easier to be a parent.




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