02/11/2017
Ways to Encourage Good Habits in Children
Parents can help their children develop healthy habits early in life. This will bring lifelong benefits. As a parent, you can encourage your children to learn good habits that may include good social skills, good manners and also help them evaluate some of their food choices and physical activity habits. It takes time to acquire a habit, so parents need to be patient with their children.
Here are some tips and guidelines to get you started.
Be a Role Model:
One of the best ways to develop good habits for children is by setting a good example yourselves.
Good Manners:
It’s never too early to start finding good habits for children. Encourage your child to use phrases like Thank you, You’re Welcome and Excuse Me.
Physical Activities/Movements: (for more fun with music and movement, check out annerichment.webs.com)
Physical activity is more than just organized activities. It can include everyday activities like walking the dog, playing tag, and even household chores like sweeping Staying physically active as a child will eventually become a part of them as they grow older.
Encourage Family Bonding:
Family time is extremely important for a growing child.
Set Strong Ground Rules:
As a parent, it is extremely important for you to set down rules for your children. Now is the time to make a routine and time table. Set out fixed hours for playtime, homework and screen time.
Encourage A Healthy Diet:
Encourage your child to make healthy food choices. Your child will adopt good habits if they start early.
Reward Your Child:
It is a great idea to reward your children for their good behavior. Make the rewards intangible – a hug, a word of appreciation, etc.
You can reward your children with good experiences too.
Stay Involved:
No matter how busy you may be in your day to day work and chores, you must make it a point to be involved in your child’s life.
Family Dinners:
Family dinners are an excellent way to inculcate the habit of healthy eating in your children.
Encourage Reading Books: (check out my music time on annerichment.webs.com)
Reading out stories to your child from a book makes a significant difference. Good literature has an effective way of inspiring children to behave in a correct manner, to follow a code of discipline, and to maintain a positive outlook in life.
Be Realistic With Your Expectations:
Encourage children to learn from their mistakes. Setting realistic goals and limits are key to adopting any new behavior.
(excerpts from Educational PlayCare blog)