Don’t answer every question, instead ask what do they think.
Asking questions stimulates conversation between you and your
child.

2. Don’t Criticize.

Criticism invites low self-esteem. Children feel that they have
failed or disappointed their parents when they are criticized.
Find alternate ways of correcting the problem. A child will
likely shut down communication if they feel that their parents
are not supportive.

3. Respect Your Child’s Opinions.

Your child is not an extension of you. Although it is difficult
to accept at times, it is normal and healthy for your child to
have their own opinion. Children who are confident in expressing
their opinions are less likely to join gangs or succumb to peer
pressure.

4. Teach Your Child To Embrace Diversity.

Encourage your child to learn about different cultures and
ethnicities. A well informed child can will understand and
respect other people’s values.

5. Teach Your Child To Set Personal Boundaries.

Children need to have their personal space respected in order
for them to respect other people’s personal space. Help your
child to establish their boundaries and insist that he/she
enforce them with their peers.

6. Establish A Nurturing Environment.

Children thrive in environments in which they know they are
loved and respected. Remind them every day that you love them
and support them.

7. Understand Your Child’s Thinking Process.

In order for you to be an advocate for your child in school, you
must know and understand how your child learns. Is he/she
creative, logical, musical, spatial, interpersonal,
intrapersonal, naturalistic? Know your child’s capabilities and
accept their creativity.

8. Let Them Think For Themselves.

Encourage independent thinking. Let your child decide (within
reason) what is appropriate for them. Give them enough room to
make decisions, but also be there in case their plans don’t work
out.

9. Teach Them Stress Management Skills.

Help your child to effectively deal with stress. Try not to
contribute to their stress with demands and unrealistic
expectations. Make learning fun!

10. Teach Your Child To Trust His/Her Instincts.

In order for children to be successful in life, they must learn
how to trust their decisions. Your child needs to be confident
in trusting his/her instincts and feelings. Children who trust
themselves are less likely to participate in unhealthy behaviors

About the author:
Marie Magdala Roker is a Family Coach and Certified Breakthrough
Parenting Instructor. She is completing her Masters in Health
Education at Columbia University’s Teachers College. She helps
parents to reclaim their lives and students to unlock their
academic potential. She is committed to helping build healthy
families, one family member at a time.