Follow these 5 rules for a happy family

There’s no such thing as ‘perfect parenting’. Being a parent is a full-time job and a difficult one at that. So, it’s only human if at times most parents unwillingly slip in and out of their roles of being the guiding force.

During an Express Master class on ‘How to be a better parent’, Gloria Burrett, integrative psychotherapist, gave us some valuable inputs on how to raise a child. Here are some of the salient points.

Learn to trust your gut feeling: Use your intuition to guide your child. If in doubt, remind yourself that there are no fixed rules in parenting.

Tailor your parenting skills to suit you and your child’s needs. Maybe, this way you won’t have to wear a mask of superfluous authority at all times.

Don’t let your child overpower you: Now, most parents complain about not being able to handle their child and eventually succumbing under pressure.

So, the golden rule is to simply make sure your intentions and strategies are the same when it comes to delivering.

For instance, if your child throws a tantrum for something he/she wants immediately, say ‘no’ if you think it’s not right. You need to understand that for a child, everything is a need.

Do away with stereotypes:  The ability to command respect is something every parent yearns for. But it’s only possible if you connect with your child at a deeper level.

In all humility, communication and trust is the key, but it’s also accepting the fact that your child is a unique entity with a life of his/her own.

Take a closer look at yourself: Move away from the kids for once and take a closer look at yourself. Along with your emotional quotient (EQ), you should also focus on your playfulness quotient (PQ).

Start working on it as this may change the dynamics of your relationship. You need to realise that your attitude towards life will leave a huge impact on your child. And, while this holds true, it’s vital that you maintain — or just in case you don’t have one, develop — a sense of humor.

Treat your child as a grown-up, but be strict when needed: First things first, start treating your child as an individual and listen to what he/she has to say.

A child is always vocal and each one of them has their own unique way of expressing things. If you do so, you will immediately see results. But at the same time, don’t be too lenient; always maintain a balance.

Adopt an approach keeping in mind your child’s characteristics. If there is a problem, make sure that you address it at the earliest. Don’t procrastinate. Things will only get worse as your child might never get a clear message.