Quick Parenting Guide

Being a parent is a tremendous affair. It's supposed to be the best experience in a person's life. It really is a life changing event. And yet, as with all new things in life, it can be incredibly challenging. Taking in a new life and caring for it is not an easy task. It requires hard work and dedication.

No one can do it all. No one is perfect. Everyone makes mistakes, and it's ok to do so. It's natural. There are no real June Cleavers, they exist only on TV. Don't beat yourself up if you aren't living up to some icon of parenthood.

Everyone can get discouraged and weighed down at times. It's only natural. Taking care of and raising another human being is not always easy. In fact, it does take an incredible amount of effort. But before you do take out your frustrations on other people, you need to take time for yourself and get your own life in order.

If you do feel like it's all getting a little too much, take a time out. Go out with your friends, enjoy a night out on the town and have someone else look after your children for a day. Don't be afraid to ask for a little time for yourself every now and then. It's good to nourish your own body and soul.

Keep in mind that there is no ultimate guide book to being a great parent. The perfect, ideal parent does not exist. There is no gold standard. As the Beatle's so aptly put it, 'all you need is love'. A child that is loved will grow up happy. Remember that love is free. You can't buy it.

Show your child that you love him/her. Displays of affection are heartily encouraged. A child that knows that he/she is loved is much more likely to develop into a confident, well adjusted adult.

Allow your children to talk. Let them tell you about their day, about their thoughts and feelings. Listening to them is a sign of caring. It shows that you respect what they have to say. It helps them build confidence.

Make sure your child feels secure in their home. If they're scared, comfort them. Give them reassurances. Having a safe home is important to the wellbeing of any child.

Give your children a sense of order. Children need to be taught how to keep schedules and how be organized. Have regular meals, play time and bed time. Stick to it.

Praise often. Don't forget this simple, but important aspect of parenting. A child should be praised for his/her good work. This helps to bolster their self esteem and instills within them a sense of accomplishment.

Criticize the act not the child. Don't say, 'you're bad.' Rather tell the child that it's their behavior that's inappropriate. Explain to them what they've done wrong and direct them as to the right course of action.

Consistency is key. Make sure you stick to your rules and don't waiver.

Spend time with your children. Read to them. Play with them.

Don't be afraid to ask for a helping hand.