Looking for a Positive and Effective Approach to Parenting Today?

I know Parenting Today can seem overwhelming and scary. When we hear the news and horror stories that are plaguing our schools and neighborhoods we often feel discouraged. Many couples are actually deciding to not have children at all.

Is this really the solution? Granted some couples may not feel empowered enough to successfully raise kids in our current society. They may fear that they will fail in protecting their children from the corruption that has become so predominant.

One primary conflict that we face early on as parents is child behavior. It is common to see advice and support on what is correct child behavior and how to get your kids to comply. Finding the advice is simple, taking what works and leaving what doesn't isn't always so clear cut.

Many parents feel pressured to force their children to conform to specific behavioral norms based on child rearing techniques that expect robotic uniformity in children's needs and responses. This often leads to inconsistent parenting and unhappy children.

Some Common Mistakes I See In Parenting Today:

• Expecting each child to conform to a specific personality
• Dismissing our kids
• Neglecting to recognize our kids emotions
• Refusing to admit you are wrong
• Failing to communicate clearly what you expect

At The Other Extreme:

• Over indulging our children
• Allowing the kids to always be right
• Letting the kids make decisions they are not able to make
• Hiding our emotions when they disappoint us
• Over praising everything your child does making them need constant recognition

As a mother I have learned first hand the importance of knowing your children. I am always amazed at how unique my children's personalities are and how very different my approach needs to be with each of them. This is where the challenge comes in for many parents; knowing how to parent unique children as a whole family.

I am not a supporter of the "all about me" tendencies seen so often today as a tactic to foster high self-esteem. My children are part of a family made up of unique individuals. My approach is child specific to accomplish ONE goal; a strong, well developed family.

I am confident that I can approach parenting today with my head held high, and so can you.