Parenting can be extremely rewarding, but that doesn't mean it's easy. It comes with many challenges, and many of those challenges can be hard to face. You may wonder if you're doing the right thing from the get-go, and in other cases, you may feel confident at the beginning, but then end up wondering if you're doing the right thing after all.
Although no two kids are exactly the same, there are some development truths that can make parenting your child a lot easier, whether you're dealing with a toddler or a teen.
They May Not Be Lying-Children Are Suggestible
Dealing with your kid can sometimes be frustrating because it's normal for children to lie. From lying about what they ate for a snack at daycare to lying about who they're hanging out with, there is seemingly no end to the lies children can tell.
Although it should never be acceptable for your child to lie, you should try not to lose your tempter either. That's because your child may not really be lying after all.
Children are suggestible, and the younger they are, the more suggestible they are. This concept has been proven in court time and time again. Teens can be just as suggestible when it comes to convincing themselves that they're doing the right thing, even if they have an inkling that they aren't doing the right thing after all.
Don't be afraid to call out your child's lies, but try to do it with compassion and understanding because a lie is often not just a lie.
They Aren't Misbehaving for the Reasons You Think
Children misbehave. That's just what they do! From the moment they're born it seems like they're pushing buttons and boundaries to see what they can get away with. It's natural to feel like children who behave badly are bad, but that's almost always not the case.
There are many reasons why kids behave badly that don't have anything to do with what they're actually doing. For example, children often act out when they are:
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Tired
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Hungry
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Frustrated
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Want attention
Have a toddler who won't stop hitting? They probably aren't just mean. Instead, they could be tired. Subconsciously, a teen may want their parent's attention and know they can get it if they get sent to the principal's office. Try and discover why your child is misbehaving and you'll likely discover a surprising cause for their behavior.
They Are Always Listening
Parents of toddlers often feel like they aren't listening, but nothing compares to teens. They are notorious for not listening! No matter how little you think your child listens to what you have to say, the truth is, your child is always listening, even if they don't show it.
Never give up talking to your child. You may have to find a different way to deliver the message or find out the reason why they aren't following your directions. They may not admit or show that they are listening right away, but you can bet that eventually you'll learn that they were listening after all.
Play Is Important
Children learn through play. This is important to understand because many parents feel guilty when they don't provide educational activities to younger children. Don't feel bad if you let your child play with dolls and cars instead of reciting their ABC's, as play allows them to learn important things about interacting with the world.
Don't forget about your teen! If your teen loves playing video games, they are still learning important life skills. That's especially the case if your teen plays online. It's a great way to make friends and practice teamwork.
Children Crave Structure and Routine, Regardless of What They Say
Young children may beg you to stay up later and ask for desert for breakfast, while teens will say they wish they could hang out with their friends before they get their homework done. The truth is, structure and routine are important for kids of all ages. As a matter of fact, some even say rules are more important than affection. Rules can only be provided by parents, while affection can come from other people.
Stick to your guns. Kids are actually happier when expectations and routines are clear and predictable.
Every parent runs into challenges at some point. Whether you're struggling with a toddler or you just can't get your teen to listen, these truths will help you move forward in a positive way with your child.
