Chances are, you already know that the earliest years of your child’s life are some of the most important when it comes to development. You also know that balanced nutrition, plenty of sleep, and exercise are key elements in the puzzle as well. But, did you ever stop to think that your parenting practices make a difference? As the most trusted kindergarten in Quincy, MA, our team is taking this opportunity to look at you, the parent.
Believe us; we know that some days are harder than others! However, creating and sticking to specific habits can help form a happy and healthy child. From the moment they arrive, your child relies upon you to provide and care for them. Although we all try our hardest, sometimes we lack the information and support we need to be effective.
Recently, the CDC asked the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) to report on their findings concerning effective parenting practices and how best to support parents. You can read the full report titled: Parenting Matters: Supporting Parents of Children Ages 0-8 online, but we’re providing a brief overview below.
Positive and effective practices to incorporate
Among various methods of parenting practices, the NASEM discovered that a few were effective every time. Below are the practices that parents can implement to encourage a child’s healthy development:
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Create and adhere to routines and household rules
Children need routine. In fact, once a child learns the routine, they thrive. Structured predictability with set guidelines creates expectations with ample room for fun, learning, and accountability.
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Don’t be afraid to discipline, but without the harshness
We’re all human; we all make mistakes. However, learning from our mistakes is how we grow. By no means should you overlook unacceptable behaviors, but how you react is what matters – discipline with compassion. Children should know what is not acceptable or why an action is dangerous, but they should never feel belittled because of it. Self-esteem, emotional development, and the ability to know right from wrong are all key players in this category.
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Read together every day
One of the best things you can do is read with your child. There are so many positive outcomes from this that we need a separate article to detail all of them! From language development to quality time together, this is one thing that every parent should do every day with their child.
Developmental milestones are specific things that children should do by a certain age, like walking and speaking. To gain these skills, children need the opportunity to grow and learn, and you as a parent can help. Incorporate your child into daily tasks and encourage them to play and explore. Be there when they make mistakes and teach them to grow through kindness.
As the premier kindergarten in Quincy, MA, our team at Wollaston Child Care Center is here to help you along that journey. Here, your family is an extension of ours. We believe in creating a support system that helps parents, and their children, to succeed.
For more information about WCC, contact the center today at (617) 773-7217.
