This is a guest post from Amanda Henderson of Safe Children.
How would you describe successful parenting? In your role as a mom, chances are you would be extremely pleased to see your kids grow up to be happy and healthy. If those goals fit into your aspirations, read on for advice on setting your children up for a successful life journey.
Setting a Good Example
Believe it or not, one of the best things you can do for your children is to lead by example. Children learn so much by observing the world around them — including you. So, it’s important to show your children how to control their tempers, eat a healthy diet, and exercise on a regular basis. And the same rule applies to education; if you’ve always wanted to go back to school, pursuing an online degree to help get your business idea off the ground will show your children the importance of education — as well as following your dream.
Keep Jitters at Bay
You might think of stress and anxiety as adult concerns, but some experts feel children often need help with stress management. Without allowing them sufficient relaxation, good quality sleep, and time for play, kids can suffer serious consequences. Unhealthy coping methods such as substance abuse can result from an abundance of stress in children’s lives, especially if they don’t learn how to listen to their bodies and use healthy tools when navigating stressful situations.
It’s important to teach your kids appropriate tools for managing stress and anxiety. For instance, children can learn to meditate, which helps reduce stress naturally, and it appears to improve focus, self-control, and empathy. There are indications exercise is also an effective stress-buster, reducing the effects of tension and lowering anxiety levels. If your youngster is experiencing stress-related anxiety, check in with her physician or therapist about what options might fit your circumstances best.
More Time Catching Zzzs
Bedtime can be a nightmare for many parents. However, slumber is crucial to maintaining a child’s well-being, and sleep deprivation can lead to a whole host of troubles. Physical problems like being clumsy, hyperactivity, and frequent illnesses can result from too little sleep. Kids can also experience mental health concerns, like emotional instability, aggression, depression, anxiety, and disruptive behaviors. CBS News notes teens are especially susceptible to suicidal thoughts and self-harm when they have insufficient sleep. They suggest the following sleep guidelines for every 24 hours:
- Babies 4 to 12 months: 12 to 16 hours
- Children 1 to 2 years: 11 to 14 hours
- Children 3 to 5 years: 10 to 13 hours
- Children 6 to 12 years: 9 to 12 hours
- Teens 13 to 18 years: 8 to 10 hours
If you struggle getting your youngster to bed, try developing an age-appropriate bedtime routine. Start at the same time each night and allow ample time to do several relaxing activities, like washing up and brushing teeth, reading a story, and listening to music. An object that provides security can also help, like a stuffed animal or favorite blanket, especially with younger kids. By doing the same thing at the same time each evening, the routine becomes a signal to children’s minds and bodies that sleep is coming.
Encourage Your Child’s Outside Voice
Spending time in the great outdoors seems to be something kids are doing less of than ever. However, it appears playing outside can be a boon to children’s health. Kids who play outdoors can have better eyesight, improved attention span, and higher vitamin D levels. They seem to socialize better and have reduced levels of stress as well. Consider encouraging your youngster to set aside electronics and spend time outside. Going to parks, playing sports, or simply enjoying backyard games are all healthy options for kids.
Successful parenting objectives come in many forms. If your goals include seeing your kids grow up to be happy and healthy, endorse a few simple lifestyle additions. Teach some healthy coping methods, help your kids get enough sleep, and encourage outdoor playtime. Good habits now can make for better overall wellness later.
Amanda Henderson is both a mom to two rambunctious boys and preschool teacher, so she knows from experience how quickly a situation can become unsafe. She created and writes for Safe Children to educate parents on how to keep their children safe while also having fun.