We recently stumbled upon the Instagram feed @BigLifeJournal and what a treasure trove of fantastic insights and advice for parents. We especially liked this post on the Four Pillars of positive parenting:
Harmful parenting tools we need to unlearn:
Unlearn punishing emotions: “Why are you crying over such a small thing? Go to your room.”
Instead, relearn setting boundaries on behavior: “I know you are so angry at your brother but hitting is not OK.”
Unlearn Shame-based strategies: “You’re so ungrateful. Why didn’t you say thnk you?”
Relearn skill-building approaches: “How can you show your gratitude for that gift? Do you want to write a note?”
Unlearn making kids feel bad to encourage positive behavior: “Don’t be such a baby. Just brush it off and keep playing.”
Relearn modeling positive behavior: “That must have really hurt. I’m here if you need a hug.”
Unlearn reactive responses. “Can’t you see that I’m busy? Go play in your room.
Relearn Proactive strategies. “I can play with you for 15 minutes then I have to go to work.”
Remember 4 core Positive Parenting Ideas:
- ALL emotions are okay.
- Model positive behavior.
- Skill-building approaches work.
- Set clear boundaries
Find more parenting gems at Big Life Journal!
Author: Mile High Mamas
