What is the “best” way to parent? The answer varies depending on who you ask. I think one of the greatest way to raise a child is to lead by example. A child is born observing. We always see children trying to be like mommy or daddy by wearing their shoes or copying their behavior. Mommy and daddy are almost like superheroes when kids are younger and the kids want to be just like them. Children are learning how to behave from the way their parents behave. Parents can tell their kids to be kind to others, not to lie, not to curse, but if the kids see their parents doing all of these things, they will be more likely to follow their example rather than their empty words.
One of the best things a parent can do, especially as a child gets older, is to listen. Children are in need of a guardian and model. They need to know that they can place their trust in someone that truly cares for them. If a parent is always there to listen to their child and make them feel loved, the child will not go searching for this affection and sense of belonging elsewhere in a person or group that could harm or corrupt them.
I also think that encouragement is a huge part of parenting. If a parent only criticizes, the child will most likely become self -conscious and will have very little faith in their own abilities. If a parent encourages their child when they achieve something or encourages their child to achieve something, the child will be much more confident in their ability and potential. They can then become a much more developed, productive, and happy member of society.
I believe that being the person you want your child to be, listening to your child, and encouraging them to reach their potential is a great beginning to being the “best” parent you can be.
