Parental involvement in their kids' lives can go two ways: It can be helpful and effective, or harmful and counter productive. The effective kind involves planning and patience, flexibility and trust, and it often creates a successful parent-child relationship. The opposite type of involvement features interference, suspicion and lack of respect, and can easily damage family bonds.
Open Communication
An important habit is communicating well with your children, according to Boys Town, an agency that serves at-risk families. If possible, pick a time to converse when you can devote your full attention, such as in the car on the way to school. Try to listen to your youngsters without passing judgment, and address their concerns with care. If your child says something that shocks or angers you, take a minute before you answer so you can respond rationally rather than emotionally. Watch your body language, too. You might control your words but convey a negative message non-verbally.
Academic Encouragement
Effective parents encourage their children to learn, and they stay involved with progress in school. Establish a daily routine for your family, suggests the Michigan Department of Education. This should include providing a quiet time and place to study, and making sure your children get to sleep on time. Involve the whole family in reading and discussing things, and set high but doable expectations for your child's schoolwork. Get involved in class, too. Your children will probably take pride in your participation, and it gives you an easy way to keep in touch with teachers.
Positive Discipline
Disciplining kids often turns into a shouting match with no real winner. Effective parenting can eliminate that, according to Boys Town. Stay calm when it comes to discipline, and pick your battles with your child by determining which behaviors are the most important to address. When you can, redirect your child, and encourage her to change her behavior. If that doesn't work, apply a logical consequence. If your daughter hits another child, give her a time out until she calms down, and explain your reasoning. Don't make empty threats. Following through consistently is one of the best gifts you can give your child.
Time to Enjoy
Parental involvement should include simply enjoying the family. You and your youngsters probably have hectic schedules. Try limiting activities to ensure quality time with your brood, suggests Education, a website for parents sponsored by Pearson Educational Publishing. Engage in a special family activity each week so you can relax, communicate, laugh and eat. Some families do a Sunday brunch; some have a Friday night pizza party at home. You can start your own tradition as part of your effective parenting plan.
