100 Tips for Nannies and Families

Parenting requires a considerable amount of “on-the-job training,” and most of us feel like we’re learning every day.  We all make mistakes - we’re human, after all - but when we strive to improve our parenting skills, our children benefit.  Here are (just a few) mistakes that parents often make:

•  Giving In - It can be HARD to follow through when it comes to discipline, but it’s so important.  If you ground your child for a week because he broke a certain rule, stick to it - don’t let him go play with his friends later that day.  Parents need to make sure their kids understand rules, expectations and consequences.  Sure, it would be easier to NOT deal with the crayon drawings on the wall (or other infraction of the rules) - no one likes to reprimand a child for poor behavior!   But if you’re clear about the rules - and consequences - your child will quickly learn the difference between right and wrong…and he’ll (ultimately) respect you for teaching him important life lessons.
• Giving Too Much - These days, we give our kids a lot of “stuff” - which leads to them wanting more.  When they’re already overloaded with toys, a new one won’t seem special.  Try giving experiences as treats, rewards or to celebrate special occasions.  If your daughter comes home with a stellar report card, take her for a special bike ride or a walk in the park.  Experiences with you are far more valuable than the latest toy.
• Overscheduling Your Kids - Extracurricular activities are wonderful and teach your children important skills, but overscheduling them can backfire.  If you’re constantly schlepping them from Girl Scouts to dance recitals to piano practice, they don’t have enough downtime to just…play.   Give your kids time to use their imagination.  They don’t have to be “scheduled” every moment of every day.
• Not Asking Questions - Learn more about your child - and constantly improve your relationship with her - by asking questions about her day, her friends and what happened at school.  Make sure she knows she can  tell you - or ask you - anything.
• Disrespecting your children - Model all the behaviors that you demand of them.  Be nice, use your words when you’re upset, don’t yell or call them names and use good manners.

What’s the biggest parenting mistake that you’ve made - or that you’ve seen in others?