Have you fallen into a rut where all you do is yell at your kids when you want them to do something? Find out how to break this pattern and create a happier home environment.
How many people out there want a peaceful, happy and cheerful home? How many people out there are struggling to make this happen?
Most people want to create a happy environment for their family. However, the reality is that all too often you get stuck in a rut where it seems like all you ever do it yell at your kids and nag them.
Yelling might eventually get them to do what you want, but it is going to make everyone crabby, including yourself.
If you find yourself in this situation, here are some more tips to help you lighten up and start building a more positive home environment.
1Don't Take It Out On Your Kids
Parents frequently nag and yell at their kids when they are actually annoyed with themselves.
In order to avoid this, make an effort to be better organized in the morning. A great way to do this is to set up a routine in the evening.
One of the great ways to be a better parent is to make sure your own stuff is in order.
2Don’t Say Don’t
One really easy trap to fall into is being negative. It’s too easy to say “no”, “stop” or “don’t”. Instead of that, try to frame your statements or questions as a “yes”.
Instead of saying “no, we can’t go to the movie until you finished eating” tell them “yes, we will go just as soon as you’ve finished”.
It sounds like a word game, but you will be amazed at the change in tone that you will get by using this tactic. You will feel better when you say it and your kids will feel better when they hear it.
3Be a Better Parent By Making Up Your Own Mantras
This is a great tip if you want to stop yelling at your kids. Break down the rules of behavior into short, key phrases.
- Keep your hands to yourself
- Answer the first time you’re asked
- Ask first
Instead of yelling at them each time one of these things come up, just repeat the phrase. They will get the point, but you won’t have to yell at them for 5 minutes to do it.
4Don’t Say No Unless It’s Important
As a parent, there are a lot of times where you will have to say “no” because what your child wants to do is dangerous, it’s rude, they aren’t old enough, etc.
One of the ways to be a better parent is to limit your “no’s” to things that really matter.
If they want to sleep with their head at the foot of the bed, does it really matter? If they want to wear a red shirt with orange shorts, is it really hurting anyone? If they want to karate chop the styrofoam in the middle of the living room, don’t say no. Instead just make a deal with them that they have to clean it up when they’re done.
5Sing in the Morning
It’s really hard to be in a bad mood when you sing.
It doesn’t matter whether you have a great voice or if you’re tone deaf. Singing sets the mood for everyone at the table.
They may sing along with you or they laugh uncontrollably, but both results are positive.
6Be Well Rested
This can sometimes be tough to do, but this is one of the great ways to be a better parent. When you are well rested, you are in a better mood and have a better outlook. This will rub off on your kids.
7Remember That Time Goes Fast
If you’re struggling with staying positive with you children, remind yourself that how fast they will grow up. They are only 5 years old for one year, then it will never happen again.
8Summary of Ways to Be a Better Parent
It may not be easy to change some of these parenting habits. However, the payoff will be worth it. If you can turn just a few of these tips into habits, the environment in your home will be healthier, happier and you will be setting a great example for your kids.
What Do You Think?
Do you have other tips for ways to be a better parent?
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