Learning how to be a great parent for your children is a continuous process. Thousands of books have been written on the topic. Being a good parent really boils down to one thing, and that is raising your child to be a happy child. Here are some basic tips that you can use in honing up your parenting skills.

Nothing can replace the time that you spend with your children. Studies have shown that what children want most from their parents is not toys or anything materialistic, but it is time to be together with them. It is easy to forget that, with all of the demands of the day and busy schedules to keep. But is important to slow down, and allow yourselves time to talk to each other.

Children need to play. Education is important, but time to play is just as important. It is counterproductive to sit your child down with drills and schoolwork without allowing them time to be creative at play.

Playtime puts them in a good mood. It encourages laughter. It reinforces a positive attitude. All of these aspects are essential in helping your child develop a positive outlook in life as they grow.

Your child must eat a proper diet everyday. His body and mind are still growing, and the right nutrients are needed to ensure proper growth. Nutritional deficiencies affect your child’s physical and mental health. A diet full of junk food will not provide him with the energy that he needs to go through the day. He will end up feeling tired, low in energy, and low in spirit.

Routines bring a sense of order to the home. Contrary to what some people might think, routines do not mean things are boring. When children know what to expect, they can mentally prepare for what is next, and it gives them a sense of control. When things are unpredictable, it results in confusion and chaos.

Always make yourself available when your children want to talk to you. Encourage them to tell you about their day. Listen attentively and with interest. Being an active listener goes a long way in encouraging your children to open up more.

Be sure you have time arranged when the whole family can be together. Dinner time is a good start. In addition, find time on the weekends to go on family picnics and day trips. These special moments will be remembered by your children when they grow up.

If you have more than one child, be sure that you set aside time to spend with each of them individually. Each child needs to feel that he is special to you. Sometimes it is difficult for a child to share mom’s or dad’s time with a sibling because you are not able to give 100% of your attention to him. So, a better solution would be to devote a set amount of time to each child where you can focus all of your attention on him.

Hopefully, this advice has given you some ideas on how to be a better parent. Always make sure that they know they are your top priority, and your children will grow up happy and secure.