Let's take a minute and talk about positive parenting. Every day I bet someone out there could tell us a story of some awful experience they have seen. Where a parent is just way out of line with their child and has parenting issues.

How many of us listen closely enough to catch the good stuff? Who do we know that we could tell good parenting stories about? How much better did the children respond to positive parenting verses negative parenting?

Well I would like to give you 5 basic tips for positive parenting.

1.) Never speak out in anger. Always take a few minutes and calm down before you address whatever it is that your child has done wrong. I highly support time outs for both parents and children when it comes to serious matters.

2.) Always listen to your child. Before you begin speaking over them. If you will listen you will be able to see the "thought pattern" your child had, behind whatever it is they have done. Then you can explain to them why what they did was wrong. In a manner to which they can understand easily.

3.) Do not instill fear in your children. Instill respect and appreciation. In the long run children who have been taught fear will learn to lie to cover up and not be disciplined. When A child who has respect for their parent will tell the truth and know that the parent is concerned more with how they
feel than punishing them for bad behavior.

4.) Always tell your child how you feel but in a calm manner. If it upsets you or makes you angry or sad that they did this. Tell them. Teaching them to honest with their feelings and how to express their feelings without an emotional outburst will help prepare them for the world.

5.) Make it a daily habit to praise and honor your child for good behavior. Always tell them that you love them. Do not be sparing on hugs and kisses. We all need the bonding touch of family. This will help your child to understand by actions that no matter what they do. You will always love them.

Positive parenting does not mean you do not discipline your child. It means you discipline them with love and with understanding and that you teach them quality skills for discussing difficult issues.

Grounding a child is a good thing. It teaches them how blessed they are to have things. That their belongings should be appreciated and taken care of.

Time outs allow for both the child and the parent to think and not speak out in anger or fear.

No one can hear the words "I Love You" to often. Words of praise will be much appreciated in times of calm inner peace. It helps build positive self esteem and allows your child to know that you really do care for them.

It is through your parenting skills that your children will learn to parent in their future. What skills you leave with them will flow down ward to your grandchildren and beyond.

There is a lot to be said for thinking before you act and considering Positive Parenting as your method of choice.

What do you think?