- Be present and give your child your undivided attention by establishing consistent rules and expectations to foster trust and security.
- Take care of yourself — go to the gym, get proper sleep, and make time for yourself.
- Engage in activities with your child — teach them something new, play outdoors, bake, or cook together.
- Set boundaries and stick to them — create a schedule and have regular check-ins with your child.
Being a parent is one of the most important and fulfilling roles that anyone can have in life. It’s a responsibility that comes with great rewards but also with many challenges. Whether you’re a first-time parent or already have experience raising children, becoming hands-on is essential to ensuring that your children grow up happy, healthy, and successful. Here are some tips.
Be Present
Being present means setting aside your phone, turning off the TV, and giving your child your full attention. Studies show that children who have parents who are present tend to have better communication skills, higher self-esteem, and better academic performance.
Take the time to truly listen and engage with your child, whether it’s reading a book together or simply having a conversation about their day. You can also join in activities your children may be interested in, like playing a game or going for a walk.
It’s also important to establish consistent rules and expectations with your child so they know what is expected of them. This will help foster their sense of security and trust that you are there to make sure they feel safe.
Take Care of Yourself
It’s easy as a parent to get so caught up in taking care of your child that you forget to take care of yourself. By taking care of yourself, you’ll have the energy and mental clarity to be a better parent. Here are some ideas:
Going to the Gym
Going to the gym and having a good workout routine is not only beneficial for your physical health, but it can also be beneficial for your mental well-being. Having an hour or two of alone time each day to work out can help reduce stress and provide a sense of peace. Working out with a personal gym trainer can also provide more support and guidance to help you stay motivated.
Getting Proper Sleep
Getting enough rest is essential for both physical and mental health. Make sure that you’re getting seven to eight hours of sleep each night, and try to avoid working late or using screens before bedtime. This will help your body recuperate and recharge so that you can be the best parent possible.
Make Time for Yourself
Finally, make time for yourself. Take a break from parenting and do something that brings you joy. Whether it’s taking up a new hobby, going out with friends, or simply having some “me-time” to relax and re-energize, making sure that you’re taking care of yourself is just as important as making sure that your children are taken care of.
Engage in Activities
Children learn by doing, and hands-on activities are a great way to engage with your child and help them learn. The time spent engaging in activities helps to build stronger relationships and creates lasting memories. Here are some things you can do:
Teach Something
As a parent, you have a wealth of knowledge and skills that you can share with your child. Teach them something new, whether it’s how to ride a bike, cook their favorite meal, or sew a button. This not only provides a valuable skill but also helps to build self-confidence and a positive sense of self.
Play a Game Outdoors
Take your children outside and play a game together. It can be anything from tag to frisbee or even jumping rope. This is not only an excellent way to get some fresh air and exercise, but it also helps build motor skills and encourages creativity.
Bake or Cook Together
Baking or cooking together is another great way to engage with your child. Not only will they learn valuable kitchen skills, but it also gives you an opportunity to bond and have some quality time together. You can even create your own recipes and experiment with different flavors.
Set Boundaries
Children thrive on structure and routine, so it’s important to establish boundaries in your family. This includes setting a schedule for homework, bedtime, and mealtimes.
By setting boundaries and sticking to them, you help create a predictable and safe environment for your child. For instance, having regular check-ins with your child will help ensure that they are following the rules and allow you to intervene if a problem arises.
Remember, being an involved and hands-on parent doesn’t mean you’re going to drop your authority. On the contrary, it’s about being available and providing a loving environment for your children to grow up in.
Becoming a hands-on parent is about more than just being physically present. It’s about engaging with your child, teaching them skills, and providing them with a sense of structure and safety. By following these tips; you’ll be well on your way to becoming a more hands-on parent and creating happy, healthy memories with your child. Remember to take care of yourself along the way so that you can continue to be the best parent that you can be.
