Are you struggling with parenting your children? Do you need suggestions for different ways to discipline? Do any of the following statements describe you?
- You don't have a parenting model to follow.
- You don't want to repeat how you were parented.
- You don't want to spank but alternatives aren't working.
- You don't have parents who can support or advise you.
- You want to provide structure without being too harsh.
- You want to be more nurturing without being too permissive.
- You want to learn how to manage a child with a difficult temperament.
- You need more practice and guidance implementing positive parenting practices.
If you see yourself here, consider getting extra parenting support to help your family.
In our community spanking is no longer considered an appropriate means of discipline, yet many parents don't know of effective replacement tools, or they don't have experience with recommended parenting practices.
Why get help?
Children with a strong family foundation whose parents use positive parenting practices are less likely to participate in negative behaviors (such as engaging in early sexual activity, problem alcohol use, illicit drug use and resorting to violence) and more likely to engage in positive behaviors (such as maintaining good health, valuing diversity, exhibiting leadership and succeeding in school) when they become teenagers according to Search Institute.
When to get help?
In all important matters time is of the essence. Every day matters in the life of a child and every parenting moment counts. As we care for our children, we all know they can't make the appointment with the doctor when they are sick. If you think your family life could be healthier, you are the one who must make the appointments. I encourage you to seek extra parenting help now rather than later. The earlier your family gets help, the sooner the children benefit.
Where can parents turn to for extra parenting help? One of the most effective things to do is immerse yourself in positive parenting support: books, articles, classes, support groups, spending time with friends who parent the way you want to parent and getting professional help. You can call your child's doctor to get started.
Youth Eastside Services offers a variety of parenting resources. This winter, topics covered range from "Are You Doing Too Much for Your Children" to "Reducing Family Conflict." Go to winter parenting classes to learn more or print a winter schedule. Register today for a class and learn skills to improve family harmony and communication.
