Time to change your parenting style

When I was pregnant I’ve got a book from my sister in law. It wasn’t a book for parents but for kids. I was really happy to have it. It was my baby’s first gift so I was curious what I can find inside this book. There are a lot of baby’s rhymes but also (what was a big surprise for me) something for adults. I found there 12 commandments for parents. When I was reading it for the first time I was in shock. I’ve started wondering if I will be able to follow these rules. They are really hard but I’ve decided that at least I will try. Now after 15 months of being a Mom I know I failed some of these commandments but still, I was able to fulfill most of them. I’m really proud of myself.

Are you ready to become a better parent? Let me introduce you 12 commandments for parents:

1. Always show a respect for your child. Be kind to him. gentle and patient.
2. Always react when your baby is crying. It’s often the only way to communicate a pain, his needs and emotions. When you show him compassion and that you understand him you teach him empathy.
3. Respond to his physical and emotional needs.
4. For the first 2-3 years try to raise your baby at home and by yourself.
5. Talk with your baby as much as you can. Ask questions, read books, explain him everything that you see.
6. Your baby should be active all the time so play with him especially on fresh air. It’s really important for his developing brain and body.
7. When your baby is behaving badly do not shout, try to find a solution. Don’t take anger on your baby. Be his role model and teach him how to use words ‘thank you’ ‘I’m sorry’ ‘Please’ etc
8. Remember that kids till their second birthday shouldn’t watch TV and use computers. And older kids shouldn’t do that for longer than 2 hours per day. It’s harmful to their physical and mental development.
9. Accept your baby and support him. It helps to create his self-esteem.
10. Make rules in your home. Clarify what is acceptable and what’s not.
11. From the day your baby will be born till his 12th birthday read books to him for 20 minutes every day. It helps to raise a good, smart and happy baby.
12. When you take care of your baby remember about your needs. Help and support from other people are really important for parents.

You are not the only one who failed

I can tell you I definitely failed on #8. My baby is not watching TV constantly but from time to time he looks on it. Also, #12 it’s hard for me. Very often I forgot about myself. I don’t sleep enough. I don’t remember when I had time to go out for a coffee with friends etc. But I’m not complaining. I knew that being a parent is not a piece of cake.

Let me know what do you think about these commandments. Do you follow any rules in your parenting?