What is a Good Parent?

We all want to be good parents! We want what’s best for our children. We want our children to grow up healthy, intelligent, respectful, and happy. But once we’re in the throes of day-to-day life as a parent, it’s not always easy to know what is the “right” way to respond to our children.Parenting has to be learned. It takes a lot of trial and error. Stay open to learning and improving your parenting skills. Read, talk to other parents you trust, and stay involved with those who care for your children. Children learn by example. They learn by watching you. Set a good example: how you act often speaks louder than your words. Work on being patient every day. Listen with your full attention when your child is upset. Remember to teach your child, not punish them. They are ready to learn, and parents are their first teachers. Express as much love as you can! Use words and praise as well as hugs and affection.

Being a good parent means you:

• Protect and guide your children
• Provide them a safe and caring home
• Meet each of their special needs
• Provide rules and love
• Show them lots of positive attention
• Sometimes put aside your own needs to help your children
• Accept the responsibility of parenting
• Love your child, no matter what

If you need help with parenting, consider attending a United Way of Santa Fe County parenting class. We offer Positive Parenting Programs and help parents learn about what children need most and how to be a great parent. To see our schedule of classes, click on Calendar.