Are you looking for some Parenting Resolutions this year? Well, you have landed on the right page!
Parenting is a beautiful journey that comes with all ups and downs. We want to be there for our kids but also sometimes ignore them. We are so busy with our schedules that we forget how fast they are growing. Why not change ourselves and make parenting resolutions before entering the new year?
It would help you build an even stronger bond with your kids.
So, why wait?
As we enter 2025, let’s resolve to make parenting more joyful, mindful, and meaningful.
Here are 5 simple resolutions every parent can adopt to strengthen their bond with their little ones.
5 Parenting Resolutions Before We Enter 2025
1. Be Fully Present
A child can be a lot of work but it was not him or her who asked you to bring them into the world. As they grow and slowly start getting busy with their activities, school and friends, they will understand that you might not be there with them 24 hours a day. But when they are babies and little kids still, they would want you to be there for them 24 hours a day.
It looks like asking too much, but we need to understand that you are the only person they can reach or ask for. You are the only person who loves them the most yet. You are the only person who can take the best care of them. And you are the only person they need right now.
So, this new year, let us resolve to put our phones aside and be there for the kids 100%, as this matters most to them. Also, you will have plenty of time to use your phones and go out with your friends later.
Click here to read more about being fully present for your child and follow this new year’s parenting resolution.
2. Encourage Independence
There is nothing better than a child who one day can be independent. To achieve this the work starts today. You can not wait a few years to start making them independent. As soon as the child begins walking and understanding things give them super easy age-appropriate chores like keeping your plate in the kitchen once you are done, keeping their clothes for laundry in the basket or packing your school bag, setting the table, packing your toys etc. This gives the child confidence.
Let them make their own decisions, starting with small ones like what to wear or eat. Don’t stop immediately when they find it difficult to decide or when they have any problem that they can solve on their own. Let them take their time. Help only when they ask for it. Instead of giving solutions, ask guiding questions like, “What do you think we should do?” to stimulate their critical thinking.
Allow them to try new activities or hobbies, even if they seem challenging. Celebrate their effort rather than focusing solely on results. Make them understand that their hard work is more important than the result.
To learn in detail how to encourage independence in your child click here.
3. Choose Positive Discipline
Loving your child is very important but so is discipline. Let your child know the rules and consequences in advance. This reduces confusion and helps them understand boundaries. Use mistakes as opportunities to teach better behaviour instead of resorting to punishment. For example, explain why their action was wrong and how to improve.
Praise and reward good behaviour with encouragement or small gestures like a high-five or sticker. Positive reinforcement motivates them to repeat good actions. React to misbehaviour calmly and with consistent consequences. Emotional outbursts can confuse children and escalate the situation. New parents usually get emotional especially when they are tired and worn out. Try to calm yourself down or take a break before reacting.
Be the example your child looks up to. Show kindness, patience, and respect in your actions to encourage them to follow suit. Positive discipline helps nurture a respectful, trusting relationship while teaching valuable life skills.
To effectively choose a positive discipline for your child click here.
4. Prioritize Emotions
Acknowledge your child’s emotions, whether happy, sad, or angry. Say things like, “I understand you’re feeling upset,” to show empathy. Create a safe space where your child feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.
Guide them on managing strong emotions, such as taking deep breaths, counting to ten, or using calming activities when overwhelmed. Demonstrate healthy emotional habits by expressing your feelings calmly and constructively, showing them how to navigate emotions effectively. Instead of immediately solving their problems, be there to listen and guide them to find their solutions. This builds emotional resilience.
Tell them no emotions are bad emotions and you are there for each of them.
To learn in detail about how to prioritize your emotions and follow this new year’s parenting resolution click here.
5. Lead By Example
Align your actions with the values you teach your child, such as honesty, kindness, and respect. Children learn more from what you do than what you say. They won’t be kind to others if they see you being rude to the people around you. They will respect you only if you respect them. So set a good example.
Express appreciation for the little things in life and maintain a positive attitude, even during challenges. This teaches your child to adopt a similar outlook. Handle stress with calmness and problem-solving rather than frustration or anger. Your response shapes how your child handles tough situations. Show them the importance of taking care of physical, mental, and emotional health by prioritizing activities like exercise, mindfulness, and rest.
Let them see you reading, learning new skills, or pursuing hobbies. This models the value of continuous growth and curiosity.
To know more about how to lead by example for your child so that he or she looks up to you, click here.
Parenting can be very tough sometimes and no one tells this before we have kids. If you gather all your courage and be calm you would do a wonderful job at parenting. Never hesitate to ask for help. These 5 New Year’s parenting resolutions would be very handy to you and help you grow as a better parent if you are consistent.
