Raising a child is difficult. You can read as many books and guides as you want, and even speak to friends who are already parents and you’ll get some great advice. But, when it comes down to it, everyone has their own parenting style. It’s not that there is a right or wrong way to parent, providing you have your child’s best interests at heart.

However, many parents make the same mistakes, discovering what they are will help you to avoid making the same mistakes.

Skipping Early Education

It can be hard to decide whether to send your child to a great early education centre such as this specialist in early learning Chatswood. On the one hand, children will be better prepared for school, learn social and emotional skills faster, and are likely to be better learners and more successful in life.

On the other hand, parents are generally worried about children growing up too fast or how they may be perceived if they send their child into early education. 

The bottom line is that it’s better for your child, don’t deprive them of the experience.

Avoiding Issues

Children are constantly pushing boundaries to see what they can get away with. It’s natural and good that they have curiosity. However, that can lead to issues, such as a battle to get them to bed on time or a child having regular temper tantrums. 

It’s often easier to avoid the issue or put up with it in the hope that it will pass. But, that’s not helping anyone. You need to set boundaries and define consequences. More importantly, you need to implement the consequences if the boundaries are broken. 

Being Unrealistic

This can stem from reading too much or from forgetting what a child of a certain age should be capable of. The result is you expect your child to be able to do something and they can’t. This can lead to frustration and arguments, simply because you have set unrealistic expectations. 

It’s worth noting that unrealistic expectations can also cause children to feel embarrassed or ashamed because they haven’t reached the standard you expect. These feelings in children are linked to anxiety and issues with self-esteem as adults. 

Not Being Consistent

Children don’t generally have a lot of say in what happens around and even to them. That’s why you need to be consistent in everything you do. Creating a schedule for them helps them to know what is coming next. Being consistent about behaviour and consequences helps to ensure they learn self-discipline and control. 

If you’re not consistent your child will struggle to take you seriously as they will never know what rules apply.

Forgetting To Lead By Example

Children are very good at mimicking behaviour and picking up on what other people are doing. As they spend most of their time with you, it’s likely that you’ll be their strongest influence. In other words, make sure you behave like you want them to.