We all want to be good parents – and have happy children. But how do we educate them to do this? We reveal 10 things that parents do to ensure happy offspring.
A child can make us the happiest person in the world from the moment it is born. It doesn't have to do much to do that – it's just there, like a small miracle and looks at us expectantly with its curious eyes.
But then the most important task of their life begins for parents: How do I raise this little being, who gives me so much happiness, to be a happy child again? Counselors are pored over, parenting strategies are practiced – and in the end they are thrown overboard again. After all, it's the little things that make good parents and their children happy.
Parents of happy children …
… don't take themselves too seriously.
The keyword is: relaxation! Life is not perfect, especially not as a small family – and imperfection in particular makes you happy. Those who go through everyday life with humor automatically show their children that small mistakes do not mean the end of the world.
… set limits and stick to them yourself.
Being good parents isn't always fun. Limits not only help the child, but also ourselves – but for this we also have to force ourselves to adhere to them.
… speak to their children at eye level.
And not just symbolically. In fact, it gives children the feeling of being taken seriously if you go to their eye level and, for example, crouch next to them when you talk to them.
… protect them and provide security.
Good parents build a cave. And again literally and metaphorically: If children know that you will always give them security and that you will help them, they will also come to you later with problems. Be the cave where they can hide and where they live free from fear.
… encourage them to try things out and give them freedom.
These little people already have their own mind – encourage them to act out. Above all, you have to learn yourself to trust the children and give them freedom, even if we don't always understand them – we certainly don't either.
… strengthen them instead of making them small, even when mistakes happen.
Mistakes happen to everyone – including parents. The most important thing children can learn from you is how they handle it. Because when they notice that they can grow from mistakes, they become more courageous.
… to apologize.
And speaking of mistakes: Good parents apologize to their children when they screw up.
… show feelings.
It's okay to be sad, angry, or disappointed at times. Because in this way children not only learn empathy, but also to recognize and allow feelings themselves. And that makes you much happier in the long term than eating them.
… don't get loud, but stay calm but consistent.
Yes, we admit – it's not always easy. But if it does get loud, the above excuse remains.
… take care of yourself!
Finally, almost the most important point: Parents of happy children take care of themselves. Because those who are at peace with themselves, happy and satisfied, automatically pass this feeling on to their offspring. For this it is necessary not to neglect your own needs!