One of the traits of being an authoritative parent includes having kids that respond fast to the parent’s requests. Although authoritative parents have high expectations from their children, they also give the kids whatever they need to succeed.
This type of parenting involves listening to children, showing them love and warmth, setting boundaries, and exercising fair discipline. This kind of parenting forgoes threats and punishment in favor of techniques like positive reinforcement.
All of us want to raise successful and intelligent children. But where do I start?
Some characteristics of authoritative parents include
- Expect a lot from your child but you should also think about the kid’s emotions
- Communicate with your child as you consider their opinions.
- Allow for natural consequences, but make the most of the chances to encourage your child to think about and learn from them.
- You encourage your child to be able to rely on themselves.
- You always engage in the child’s progress.
How to Guide Children Toward Authoritative Parenting
It is worthwhile to put in the time and effort to develop emotionally and become a better parent. However, growth is not always straightforward, so it might take some time for your kids to adjust. Even positive change can be challenging. When children begin to experience things that are out of the ordinary, they may become anxious. This can lead to challenging behaviors for parents.
The effects of adopting a new parenting style may include emotional outbursts depending on the child’s personality. Parents who were previously permissive can discover that their kids aren’t taking them seriously. It might take some time for the kids to understand and adhere to the rules and routines.
I constantly remind you that perfectionistic parenting may drive their kids to see every mistake as a failure. This may result in lifelong self-esteem issues. After all, the objective is to become a better parent. Not to become a perfect parent! Keep your attention on what is happening on your personal path and your family’s journey.
Less social media to be an authoritative parent
To avoid comparing themselves to other parents, I advise parents to spend less time on social media.
Social media is strange because everyone appears to be what they are not in real life. Social media parents appear to have figured everything out but this is not true in most cases.
You have to spend less time comparing yourself to other ‘perfect’ parents on Instagram. Your journey can never be the same as another parent’s. This is why I advise you to reduce the amount of time you spend drooling over another person’s lifestyle that might even be fake. Things don’t always turn out to be what they are, especially on social media.
You have to find out what works for you and your child without the comparisons on social media.
Give warmth and unconditional love
We are aware that you adore your children. But do you consistently display it? Children want warmth and nurturing on a basic level. Perhaps demonstrating your love for your children in a way that they will understand is more difficult for you than actually loving them.
Determine your child’s love language to learn how they prefer to receive love as well as what that language is. Perhaps they cherish the time they spend with you. Or perhaps they enjoy it if you sing to them. Learn what their preferred method of receiving love is and make an effort to express it to them.
Assigning household chores may make you an authoritative parent
It is very important to teach your children the importance of being responsible. Children should be assigned chores that they are accountable for performing starting at a very young age. Make sure your children have jobs that are suitable for their ages.
Give them the proper instruction and take your time. Regular chores at home teach children responsibility, time management, and practical life skills that they will use for the rest of their lives.
In conclusion, there’s no specific formula for being an authoritative parent. However, you can just try being a good parent. We have an entire article dedicated to this topic.