Positive Parenting & Positive Development in Children

Children raised in loving homes often thrive. When parents focus on their child's needs, show that they love and value their child and strive to be good role models, they are implementing positive parenting skills. According to the website Parenting-Healthy-Children.com, positive parenting effectively helps children to develop a secure attachment between parent and child, and nurtures a sense of positive self-worth 2.

Self-Esteem

KidsHealth.org points out how important a child's self esteem is since it becomes his armor for facing life's challenges 1. By praising your child for his efforts -- not just the result -- you are helping him develop a strong sense of self-worth and teaching him to overcome disappointments. Remember, too, that you are influential regarding your child's behaviors. Model a positive, realistic attitude about your own strengths and weaknesses for him to emulate as he grows and develops.

Discipline

In her book "Positive Discipline," author and family counselor Dr. Jane Nelson shares her belief that by disciplining in a way that allows children to experience responsibility that is directly related to their privileges, a child will become capable and accountable 2. Nelson encourages an authoritative style of parenting, where parents and children work together to come up with rules that benefit one another. In this style of parenting, the parent is kind and respectful yet firm when disciplining, which also encourages a healthy attachment between parent and child.

Quality Time

The American Academy of Pediatrics urge parents to spend time each day with their child. Your child needs attention, and when he doesn't have it he may act up as a way of getting you to take notice. Allow your child to connect positively with you by having meals together as a family, and spending time reading books or playing board games together. This focus and attention encourages contentment in your child, which often leads to the development of good behaviors and a strong sense of security.

Encourage Friendships

By hosting play dates and scheduling outings with your child and his peers, you are giving him the opportunity to create friendships, and you're encouraging positive social development. He begins to understand the value of friendship, and he learns important social skills such as sharing and taking turns. When he has a disagreement with his friends, your intervention helps train him to resolve conflict in a positive way, without resorting to aggressive behavior.