Flying Start - Rhondda Cynon Taf

Parent Supporting

�Being a parent will probably be the most rewarding job you�ll ever do � and the greatest challenge� There's no one right way to parent and no super-parent out there with all the answers.
Always look for your child's good behaviour and praise it.
Affection, looks, gestures and words show your child they are loved and lovable. Acting in this way will encourage them to tackle new challenges and bounce back if things don't go their way.
Your praise will work best if you go up to your child, get their attention by using their name, look them in the eye, then say specifically what you liked. For example �David you are reading that book so nicely, well done" or "Yasmin, thanks for helping me put away the toys, you did well".
Sometimes you may struggle to find things to praise. But look hard and praise small things - without positive comments your child is likely to find negative ways to get your attention. You can never praise too much! It doesn�t mean your child will be spoiled or big-headed if you give frequent, genuine praise that reflects the effort they've put into tasks as well as the outcomes they achieve.
Communication is vital for a child's development. Take some time everyday, no matter how young your child is, to listen and talk.
Providing a running commentary on what you are doing or asking them questions, will help them develop language skills.
Your genuine interest means more than sweets. Don't bribe them with treats to be good, offer your time instead.

A parent is the most important person in a childs life, as little as 10 minutes of
your time can boost a child's learning and discovery more than you realise.

Play doesn't need to be expensive. In fact, it's better when it's not. Half an hour in the park or kicking a ball about will be far more enjoyable than the most expensive toy. Let the child lead. If they feel in control of the activity, it will occupy them for much longer. Let them show you how it's done. Give them a chance to have a go first, before you step in to help. Enjoy the experience. Playing together reduces stress. If you are relaxed the child will be too.
It's the process that counts, not what you end up with. Even the most abstract creation is the product of the child's exploration and imagination. You wouldn't ask Picasso to 'finish it off' or 'add a bit here', so leave young artists to decide when they have finished.

Be consistant, it helps children to feel safe if they know what the rules are. Positive discipline means working at building good communication, listening to your child's views, but not being afraid to set clear limits and boundaries. Be realistic. A lot of the behaviour parents call naughty or disobedient is just a normal part of development.
Children�s brains are growing and changing right up until their twenties. Toddlers want to touch everything to find out how it works. Older children try to assert their independence. The transition into the Teenager years can see lively chatty children change into silent and augmentative teenagers.

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Strengthening Families Programme for Parents of Young People aged 10-14

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