Tips for Parents

Being a parent is the most difficult job anyone could have.  It is also the most rewarding.  When faced with the trials of parenting, remember:

Kids don't need perfect parents; they need caring and involved moms and dads.

• Show that you care.  Tell your kids how much they mean to you.  Say something like:  "I love you."
 
• Praise kids for trying.  Let your child know that trying counts.  Teach them the importance of doing their best.
 
• Give kids guidelines for behavior.  Make sure your rules are clear to your children.  Don't say "maybe" when you mean "no."  Be consistent.  Set limits with your kids and stick by them.  Clear and consistent guidelines help kids feel secure.
 
• Communicate with your kids.  Gain your children's trust by listening to them when they come to you with a problem.  Look directly at your kids when they talk to you.  Be honest with kids.  Admitting your mistakes will help them to admit and take responsibility for theirs.
 
• You are your children's best teacher.  Model behaviors you want to see from your children.  They are looking to you to learn how to be a mature and responsible adult.  Teach your kids to think for themselves.  Help them learn how to make responsible decisions.  Avoid solving their problems for them.

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The mission of Family Resources is to prevent and treat
child abuse by strengthening families and neighborhoods.
141 S. Highland Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA  15206
www.familyresourcesofpa.org
info@familyresourcesofpa.org