Parenthood may be the most rewarding thing you do in your lifetime, but it does come with its own set of challenges and learning curves. As a parent, it’s not unusual to find yourself worrying about how well you are doing at the job. In fact, parents spend 37 hours worrying about their kids every week, and only 44-46 percent of parents think they are doing a good job , according to a study by Pew Research Center. These fears are not just limited to parents either. If you’re thinking of starting a family or expanding your brood, chances are that these questions will cross your mind. If you happen to be a part of this group, sticking to some basic ground rules can help you navigate the world of parenthood and be sure that you’re raising them well.
Don’t Be Afraid To Seek Help
Becoming a parent can be a shock, even if you plan it meticulously. Don’t be afraid to reach out to family, friends, or parenting resources to get advice on how to adjust. Even before they are born, there is a minefield of information to digest. From choosing a safety-approved crib to learning about chemicals in plastics like Bisphenol A and its medical impact on your child’s health, there is a long list of things parents need to know. For parental concerns, rely on your support system, baby groups, and expert resources like The Nursing Center, The American Academy of Pediatrics, and your primary physician. For instance, multiple published reports, including one by the American Academy of Pediatrics, have linked the presence of BPA in plastics like baby bottles to behavioral disorders such as attention deficiency disorder.
Stay On Top Of Your Finances
One of the top worries for parents or those looking to start a family is finances. Parents are spending more on raising their kids than ever before – more time, more money, and more effort. While it is not new to want to see your children live a better standard of life than you did, it takes some financially savvy steps before you embark on parenthood and throughout your journey.
For instance, consider improving your budgeting skills. Being able to manage your money increases your ability to stay on top of the financial obligations that come with being a parent. The average cost of raising a child is now $233,610. You may also want to think of securing life or long term care insurance. Having the security of these means you can rest easier, knowing that if the unimaginable occurs, your child will be protected financially.
Encourage Play And Imagination
Promoting play does more than present bonding opportunities for you and your child. According to multiple studies, encouraging play fosters healthy brain development. Play encourages your child to use their imagination and develop social, physical and emotional skills. It also helps to develop their communication skills, and allows them to attempt problem-solving on their own – a key aspect of encouraging their independence when they get older. To encourage more free play, set screen time limits, and don’t be afraid to get involved in roleplay or small world games with your child. Not only will you be aiding their growth, but your child will have wonderful memories of bonding with you as they get older.
Get Comfortable With Doing It On Your Terms
Finally, make room for errors. There is no rule book on parenting. While some tips may work for other parents, they may not work for you and your child. Remember to trust your instinct as a parent, and do what suits your relationship with your child. If you do make a mistake, learn to forgive yourself.
Too often, parents place immense pressure on themselves to get parenting right, and focus too much on the ways they feel they may be failing. While you may not be able to save full tuition for your child’s college education, don’t forget to focus on the love and support you can provide to encourage them to pursue further education. While these tips will get you off to a good start as a parent, there is no guarantee. Each person’s parenting journey is uniquely personal. Embrace this, and don’t be afraid to make it your own.
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