Five Common Parenting Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Parenting Made Easier

Want the best for you kids? With all the often-contradicting information available for parents these days, it can be confusing knowing which advice to follow. If you want to have happier kids and a healthier relationship with them, try avoiding these five common mistakes parents often make.

Not Doing What You Say: Kids depend on parents for more than just food and shelter. So when you say something will happen, make sure to follow through. From the end of screen time to how many treats they get, kids do better when they understand the boundaries. While plans can change and life often interferes, even the youngest kids can understand simple explanations. If you don’t do what you said, acknowledge the cause. Aim for 90 percent or higher matching your words to your actions and watch the arguments dwindle.

Ignoring Routines: Routines mean neither of you has to think about what happens next. From getting kids out the door on time to mealtimes and bedtimes, routines go a long way to streamlining the constants in life. If you worry about when your next meal will arrive or when the fun might end abruptly, you can’t focus on enjoying the moment. Establishing routines and sticking to them as much as possible removes the guesswork for both kids and adults.

Doing Too Much: This habit can be hard to break. Children start off as helpless infants who need someone to do it all. Parents often get so used to doing everything for their kids, and it can be hard to know when to let kids take on responsibilities. The younger you can involve the kids in everyday activities like meal prep, laundry, and tidying the house, the easier the transition. Don’t hesitate to let even the youngest kids pitch in, and try and resist redoing their work unless absolutely necessary.

Losing Sleep: Kids need sleep. While each kid differs, aim for the amount recommended by your pediatrician. Try creating a soothing bedtime routine that works for your family. If you have specific issues, from kids who won’t stay in bed to frequent nighttime disturbances, don’t hesitate to get help from friends, books, or medical professionals. Good sleep goes a long way, no matter the age.

Improperly Installing Car Seats: If your child rides in any type of car restraint, make sure it gets installed properly every single time. Check the owner’s manual for instructions and helpful advice. Any infant or convertible seat that moves more than an inch in any direction isn’t safe. Most towns and some businesses offer free car seat checks. Attend one of these sessions for free expert help. Car seat compatibility varies wildly from vehicle to vehicle and even different model years, and this is one area where you never want to make assumptions.