Parenting Tips

PARENTING TIPS FOR MEN

Dads, uncles, step-dads, grandpas you all have a special place in your child’s life! Children who have men involved in their daily life tend to be well adjusted and better equipped for success. You are important! Your interest and love can make a significant difference in a child’s life.

SHOW THAT YOU CARE

• Give your children hugs and kisses often; children need appropriate physical comfort and contact from their men.
• Tell them how much they mean to you, “You’re really important to me.”
• Praise their efforts, especially if they don’t succeed; teach them the importance of doing their best.

GIVE GUIDELINES FOR CONDUCT

• Give your children rules and make sure your rules are clear to them; don’t say “maybe” when you mean “no.”
• Explain your rules; children get confused when you seem to change your mind without any reason.
• Use effective discipline to help children develop self-control; set limits and encourage children to feel good about themselves.

COMMUNICATE WITH CARE

• Look directly at your children when they talk to you.
• Gain your children’s trust by listening to them when they come to you with a problem. Children will welcome your guidance, but are not likely to listen to lectures.
• Be honest with your children; admit your mistakes and teach your children the importance of taking responsibility and making amends.

BECOME YOUR CHILDREN’S EDUCATOR

• Tell your children that they can come you your with any questions; otherwise they may receive inappropriate answers from other people.
• Remember that you are your child’s role model. They are looking to you to learn how a responsible and mature adult acts and treats others.
• Do household chores with your children, make them feel good about helping you and teach them that men also share household duties.
• Encourage your children to think for themselves. Guide and help them with their decision making process.

Call the Parent InfoLine at 520 624-9290 or go the website http://www.pimacountyparentingcoalition.org/  to find parenting classes in our community.

Casa de los Niños offers free parenting classes on a regular basis. Registration is required. See a list of classes and the current schedule on our website under Parents.