8 Good and Positive Parenting Tips for Toddlers
Your child is growing—they are becoming more independent, able to eat, drink, go to the toilet on their own, and express their needs. At this stage, parents' roles go beyond ensuring comfort and safety. Now, you must play, teach, and educate your child, introduce them to the basics of social life, and effectively support their communication skills.To make this process easier for both you and your child, consider the following:
- Just talk
Sometimes, it helps to simply chat with your toddler without instructing or teaching, and without aiming for educational goals. Just talk heart to heart. The purpose of these conversations is to share impressions and better understand your child’s view of the world.
- Let your child go
Sooner or later, your child will seek independence. Parents should recognize that their child is not their possession if they want them to grow into active, successful adults. Your child does not have to follow in your footsteps. For example, the child of creative parents may not be an artist but can find fulfillment as a doctor, teacher, or businessperson.
Also, parents' lives should not revolve solely around their child’s needs. If a child becomes the parents’ “main project,” the adults may feel unfulfilled, pinning all hopes on their child's achievements in sports or entertainment. Such expectations can burden children, who may feel pressured to meet them. Parents, consciously or not, might expect constant gratitude and obedience—and when the child grows up and becomes independent, the parents may feel a loss of purpose. - Try to understand your child
Understanding your child can help prevent many conflicts. For instance, if your child refuses to wear a certain hat, perhaps they find it uncomfortable or unattractive. Allow your child to choose their own hat, or ask what they dislike about the old one.
If your child does not want to attend the sports classes you picked, ask why. They might suggest another activity, like swimming instead of martial arts. - Encourage various activities
Children who engage in a variety of activities tend to develop more harmoniously and find it easier to choose a career later. Parents should nurture physical, creative, and intellectual skills. Find a sport or club your child enjoys, as well as activities in art, robotics, or model building.
Advice:
To gain insight into your parenting style, take our psychological Parenting Mentor Test. By answering several questions, you'll receive a detailed analysis of your relationship with your child, plus practical recommendations to help you be the best parent while preserving the strengths you already have. - Let your child choose leisure activities
Give your child the freedom to spend time as they wish, even if the activity seems pointless to adults. Perhaps lying on the floor helps them perceive their body differently, or climbing under furniture lets them explore their environment. If your 3-year-old is shredding paper with scissors, it may be a way to relax or learn new skills. Don’t interfere with safe activities, even if your child is alone. This independence helps expand their inner world. - Find meaning in every activity
Inspire a love of useful pursuits by setting an example. If you energetically say, "Let’s clean so our home feels comfortable," your child learns positive behaviors. Narrate the results of activities, even chores—"We’ll pick up toys so we have more room to play" or "We’ll rake leaves so new grass can grow."
This approach not only makes daily life easier but also helps your child develop the habit of finding benefits in all sorts of activities. - Introduce your child to art
Children over three are naturally curious. They’ll appreciate discovering the world of art with you. Read stories and poetry, visit museums, and attend plays or ballets for children. Sharing new experiences will expand their horizons and bring you closer together. - Be mindful of your words
Young children take their parents' words to heart. Avoid labeling your child with negative traits like “You are a liar” or “You are always so clumsy.” Bad behavior or carelessness at this age is usually temporary. If you frequently criticize your child, they may start believing your words and act accordingly. Every child grows in their own unique—and sometimes surprising—way. Maintaining good communication will help you both navigate the ups and downs of childhood.
Advice:
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