Parenting is tough. You are always wondering if you are doing the right thing, trying to be the best version of a parent you could possibly be. Striving to make the best choices for your child. The world we are currently parenting in feels so tense and turbulent, making it more of an emotional rollercoaster than ever before. That’s why today I wanted to share some of my favourite parenting hacks and tricks to make being a parent just that little bit easier.
1. Teach your children gratitude from an early age as possible
Kids these days are used to having so much. In a world that has become impossibly materialistic, teaching them gratitude is one of my favourite parenting hacks that can help them really appreciate what they have, helping them to become happier children, and one day, happier adults.
2. Always see the bigger picture
It can be so easy to get caught up in the little things that don’t matter when you’re a parent. By shifting your mindset and realising that most things actually don’t matter as much as they might feel they do in the heat of the moment, you will be able to reduce your stress levels significantly. The bottom line here is: Don’t sweat the small stuff.
3. Do what you say you will
We all want our children to trust and respect us however when we say one thing and do another, they may end up doing the opposite. Before you say you will do something, be sure you can honour it, or if you are not sure, then it’s ok to tell your children you will think about it. Remember broken promises are like broken glass – hard to fix or replace.
4. Say sorry
We all have bad days when we lose our patience and become shouty. We are only human and I do believe that children need to see our range of emotions. The important thing here is to say sorry when we have said or done something we regret. Saying you’re sorry shows kids that no one is perfect and also teaches them how powerful an apology and a hug can be.
5. Empathise with your children
Maybe in your head you think the fact your child is getting so worked up over something seemingly inconsequential is ludicrous, but here’s the thing – it’s a big deal to them! Understanding your child’s point of view, and taking on board their feelings will help them feel heard and validated, and know that you are on their side.
6. Give choices
….always! Children of all ages want to feel in control, and by giving them little choices every step of the way, they feel empowered and less likely to resist and push back against you. This can be done as young as the toddler years (red or blue cup) all the way by offering them age-appropriate choices for their developmental stage.
7. Never belittle yourself
We all want to raise confident kids with great self-esteem. Children learn by modelling and mirroring so if you don’t want your child to think badly of themself or deal with negative self-talk, then guess what? It starts with you.
8. Trust your instincts & stay in your lane
There are so many words of advice out there for parents it can be overwhelming. All of this can be cut out if you trust your instincts, do what feels right for you and your child, stop comparing and stay in your lane.
9. Play & laugh
Life can be so serious sometimes! It sounds obvious but playing and laughing with your kids is a great way to strengthen your bond with them and can even be used to teach important life lessons, as well as being a great way to let off steam.
10. Just 10 minutes
Just 10 minutes of super-present time spent playing/connecting with your child can be enough to fill up their emotional cup for an hour or two. Make sure there are no distractions and put your phone away.
11. You’re the superhero
Don’t stress too much about how much of a good job you are doing at being a parent. If your child is 10 or under they already think you are a superhero.
12. Get your kids to help with chores from an early age
Children love to do, help and be independent and getting them to chip in with chores can be a win-win way of facilitating that. Get them started young for a can-do attitude to chores, despite the fact they may not do it your way, or it may take an eternity to do.
Bonus tip: Always think – there is only now
There is an amazing video by Sam Harrris called It is Only Now. Everybody should watch it. It changed my whole outlook on parenting, as well as life. Because if you’re always thinking there is only now as a parent, then you will truly know what matters. The most powerful parenting hack of them all.
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These are such great points for parents. Parenting is tough and we all need a little guidance at times
These are amazing tips. I absolutely love remember the big picture and saying you’re sorry when you’re wrong. It’s so important to remember that children are people, too.
My husband and I both try to say sorry when we know we were wrong to our boys. My younger son thrives on choices, so we try to give him a choice when possible, even if it’s what color cup he wants that day.
I love this and especially the part about teaching gratitude, this is such an important part of parenting that a lot of us struggle with at times.
Brilliant post as per usual. Not dictatorial and instead offer sensible relaxed information and advice that is actually helpful xx
It is wonderful that you have discovered some parenting hacks and tricks to make things a bit easier for you.
It is good that you have found your favorite parenting hacks and tricks to make your role as a parent go a bit easier for you.
All great and very helpful tips. I can agree with every single one of them. Thanks for sharing!
I love these hacks. A lot of parents will surely find it helpful. Not just parents but for aunts and uncles too like me. With nephews and nieces I feel like I’m a parent too and I can apply some of these. I love that sometimes my nephews think I’m a superhero.