4 Bad Habits That Parents Fall Into That They Must Break

Bad habits that parents make unknowingly can affect the development of kids especially their behavior. Your children are watching you as they grow up. And your actions are absorbed by your children. So, it is advisable that you break these bad habits if you want your child to grow into a fine gentleman or lady.

Parents and Health share the following bad parents fall into and some ways on how to break them:

1.       Not clear in giving instructions

Some parents pose request through questions. For instance, you want your kid to tidy up, you ask him, "Can you keep your toys in the cabinet?" then you follow up, "Is that OK with you?"

You must give clear directions or your children will think that it is a request, not a command. You must say instead, "Coby, keep your toys in the cabinet." You must exercise your authority as a parent so that your children know who the boss is and learn how to follow directions. And they would apply this by following other authorities such as the school officials and the government.

2.       Not listening

Some parents are overwhelmed by the daily grinds of living that they have no time to listen to their children. Your children have some problems too that they encounter in their schools and with their friends. Sit and talk with them and ask them how their day is in school or with friends. This can help your children solve their problems as well as make decisions.

3.       Focus on negative and criticism

Unknowingly, some parents tend to criticize their children. You often look at every mistake of your child. This can shatter your child's self-confidence. Instead of being a critic, be an encourager. Try to focus on the good side of your child. This can build his self-confidence.

4.       Concealing your true emotions

"If you don't share your emotions appropriately, you'll teach your kids to lie about their feelings," Dr. Charlotte Resnick, a psychologist said. "Plus, your child could think that she's the reason you're upset and end up feeling bad about her."

You must be true to your emotions whether you are happy, nervous, sad, frustrated or angry. And let your children understand the emotions you have at the moment. In this way, your children will hear and know the truth and will also know how to manage their emotions.

The key is to set a good example to your children. Breaking these bad parenting habits can improve your family life and beneficial for the development of your kids.