Six Characteristics of Great Parents

 

No one ever hopes to be just a mediocre parent. You want to be a great parent. But there is no instruction manual that comes with raising a child, even though it’s one of the most challenging undertakings there is. You may look to other people you admire for insight on what it means to be a great parent, and you may learn from experience or reading books. What you’ll find is that some things remain consistent because they always tend to work. If you’re raising children, here are some of the universal characteristics of great parents for you to keep in mind.

Patience

When parents are patient, they give their children opportunities to learn and grow at their own pace. An impatient parent makes a child feel uneasy or pressured, and this can hurt their self-esteem. You should not make your child feel rushed or let them know that you are frustrated. Oftentimes impatience comes from our own personal frustrations being unfairly taken out on our children. Patience encourages your child positively and makes them feel safe and loved.

 

Acceptance

Everyone is different, as parent you need to accept your children for who they are. If a child does not feel accepted by their parents, chances are they won’t feel that they fit in anywhere. When a child feels acceptance at home, they feel better about themselves, no matter what sets them apart from others. It is also a great quality to teach your children to help them to get along with others and be kind.

Accountability

Parents who are accountable for their actions teach a great deal of responsibility to their children. Parents who demonstrate accountability are likely to receive a higher degree of respect from their children. It also helps teach your children that everyone makes mistakes sometimes, and it’s perfectly okay to admit them and try to make things right.

 

Predictability

This is one of the most important characteristics of great parents because it makes your child feel safe and secure because they know what to expect. Children rely on routines, so a predictable parent who follows a routine fosters their sense of stability. It also enhances their discipline when consequences remain consistent. If they can accurately predict what will happen they feel safe, and if they can accurately predict the consequences of their actions they’ll be better behaved.

 

Positivity

Children look to their parents to help them understand how to interpret many different situations. They follow your example on how they feel and act, so it’s essential to keep a positive outlook. Positivity teaches children to make the best of every situation, and it helps them learn how to focus on the good rather than the bad.

Helpfulness

The younger a child is the more help they need from their parents, and they never really stop needing you. You should show your children a spirit of willingness to help. It will make them feel comfortable coming to you when they need you, and it will inspire them to reach out and help others who need it. They’ll feel good knowing that you enjoy helping them, rather than think they’re bothering you.

Lisa Hann finds great delight in writing people-focused content for several blogs across the web. Lisa reviews her work with the help of Grammarly grammar checker, the most reliable grammar tool on the web.