You know the looks you get from the other parents. The judgmental glares, stares and rolling of the eyes from those “know-it-all parents” whose kids are perfect. Well, guess what? There is no such thing as a perfect parent or child. Here are the top five myths that prevent parents from being their best. So, keep reading to learn how to avoid them, so you can be a better parent.
Myth 1: It’s Okay to Give in Just This Once
When your child is having a public temper tantrum, it’s best to give them what they want to avoid embarrassment. Wrong. This is the perfect time to demonstrate to your child that inappropriate behavior is never a way to get what they want, especially in public. If need be, leave the shopping cart behind, calmly carry your child out the door, if your child is easy to carry, and get in your car. Whether you decide to go home or try again from there is up to you.
Myth Number Two: Children Don’t Need to Help Around the House
Children in today’s world have enough to deal with, so giving them chores would be too overwhelming. Sorry, not true. Children need to learn responsibilities within the household to understand how a family works together to create a comfortable home. Yes, children do have a lot on their plates nowadays.
However, you can decide what outside activities might need to sit on the back burner for now. Does your child need all those sports activities, or will they benefit from having one or two activities and being a productive family member, as well?
Myth Number Three: It’s the Parents Fault When Kids Don’t Succeed
If your child doesn’t excel, you’re a failure as a parent. No, you’re a failure as a parent if you put that kind of pressure on your child and expect them to meet those high standards. Keep in mind who your child is and what their strengths are, not what you want them to be. Be proud of any accomplishments no matter how big or small.
Myth Number Four: Your Child Doesn’t Have to Do What the Teacher Asks
A child has the right to not do what their teacher says if they don’t want to. Are you kidding? What does this teach your child? It could teach them not to respect authority or other human beings. So, teach your child that sometimes they will have to do things they don’t want to do.
And sometimes they’ll find out it wasn’t so bad after all. The only exception to this rule is if a child feels that an adult is being inappropriate or asking them to keep a secret. Talk to your children and help them understand the differences.
Myth Number Five: You’re Alone in This Parenting Life
You’re the only parent who is going through this. This is absolutely not true. Many parents are just like you. And they’re looking for parents to join forces with because everyone needs support. How can you be a support to another parent? Be a friend and help each other as you go through similar parenting struggles.
Parenting is not an easy job. So, just know that you’re doing the best you can with what you have, and then seek others for ideas to help. Then, one day when you look back on this season of your life, you’ll know you did a great job.
