Transform your parenting : The power that comes from acknowledging positive behaviour.

This month I am exploring the idea of “Choice” when it comes to how we parent our children. When thinking about choices I often use the "3 Simple Better Parent Keys" as a starting point.

As you may be aware from previous newsletter and posts the "3 Simple Better Parent Keys" are as follows:

• Key 1: Acknowledging desirable behaviour: What we pay attention to, we see more of.
• Key 2: Issuing effective instructions
• Key 3: Staying calm and kind and finding the ‘how to’ of doing this as a parent

Incorporating these 3 simple keys into their parenting can foster stronger relationships, encourage positive behaviour, and create a more harmonious home environment.

Today I thought I would focus on Key 1 and the choice to acknowledging desirable behaviour.

Why Should the Better Parent Acknowledge Desirable Behaviour?

Children Crave Attention: Whether it's positive or negative, children are always seeking their parents’ reaction.

Your Response Matters: Focusing more on negative behaviours can inadvertently encourage them to continue. The Better Parent understands that children naturally seek attention, and by consistently acknowledging both positive and negative behaviours, they can influence which behaviours are reinforced and likely to be repeated.

The Power of Positivity

• Acknowledge Positive Actions: Shift your focus to recognize and celebrate your child’s positive behaviours. This not only reinforces good behaviour but also cultivates a sense of achievement and encourages your child to continue behaving positively.
• Build Stronger Relationships: Positive reinforcement encourages good behaviour and strengthens the bond between parent and child. When children feel appreciated and valued for their good behaviour, they are more likely to feel secure and connected in their relationship with their parent.
• Notice More of the Good: Remember, what you pay attention to, you see more of. By actively highlighting and praising positive behaviours, parents create an environment where these behaviours become more frequent and ingrained in their child’s routine.

Easy Tips for Positive Reinforcement

• Catch Your Child Being Good: Take notice of moments when your child demonstrates positive behaviour, no matter how small. Whether it’s sharing with a sibling or completing a task without being reminded, acknowledging these actions reinforces them.
• Show Appreciation: Express your appreciation directly to your child when you observe them behaving well. An example of a descriptive acknowledgement that could be used to show appreciation includes, “Great job for sharing your toys with your brother.”

Make It a Habit

By consistently acknowledging your child’s positive actions, you’re not only fostering better behaviour but also creating a more cooperative and loving environment at home. Let’s make a habit of celebrating the good and watch how it transforms our families!

Looking forward to connecting with you soon and wishing you all the best in your parenting!

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