Parents and other caregivers are responsible for children’s physical safety and emotional well-being. Parenting styles vary; there is no one right way to raise a child. Clear and consistent expectations for each child, by all caregivers, are important. Many good books are available in libraries or at bookstores on child development, constructive problem-solving, discipline styles, and other parenting skills. The following suggestions are not meant to be complete.

• Do your best to provide a safe home and community for your child, as well as nutritious meals, regular health check-ups, immunizations, and exercise.
  
• Be aware of stages in child development so you don’t expect too much or too little from your child.
  
• Encourage your child to express her feelings; respect those feelings. Let your child know that everyone experiences pain, fear, anger, and anxiety.
  
• Try to learn the source of these feelings. Help your child express anger positively, without resorting to violence.
  
• Promote mutual respect and trust. Keep your voice level down—even when you don’t agree. Keep communication channels open.
  
• Listen to your child. Use words and examples your child can understand. Encourage questions.
  
• Provide comfort and assurance. Be honest. Focus on the positives. Express your willingness to talk about any subject.
  
• Look at your own problem-solving and coping skills. Do you turn to alcohol or drugs? Are you setting a good example? Seek help if you are overwhelmed by your child’s feelings or behaviors or if you are unable to control your own frustration or anger.
  
• Encourage your child’s talents and accept limitations.
  
• Set goals based on the child’s abilities and interests—not someone else’s expectations. Celebrate accomplishments. Don’t compare your child’s abilities to those of other children; appreciate the uniqueness of your child. Spend time regularly with your child.
  
• Foster your child’s independence and self-worth.
  
• Help your child deal with life’s ups and downs. Show confidence in your child’s ability to handle problems and tackle new experiences.
  
• Discipline constructively, fairly, and consistently. (Discipline is a form of teaching, not physical punishment.) All children and families are different; learn what is effective for your child. Show approval for positive behaviors. Help your child learn from her mistakes.
  
• Love unconditionally. Teach the value of apologies, cooperation, patience, forgiveness, and consideration for others. Do not expect to be perfect; parenting is a difficult job. Many good books are available in libraries or at bookstores on child development, constructive problem-solving, discipline styles, and other parenting skills.

This information was supplied by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services at www.hhs.gov.

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