Parenting Preschoolers 101
From time to time, my husband and I would need to regroup and call a family meeting. The idea was to take back ground we had relinquished due to our parenting. We would usually start by sharing that we had been inconsistent in our expectations and lax in our discipline. Then, we would regroup and set the table for going forward. It was a new day! Do you ever feel the need to do that?While this list is inconclusive, it provides a few areas that encompass a parenting 101 mindset.1. B and B – breakfast and bedtime. More protein than carbs for breakfast – cheese toast, cold pizza warmed, scrambled or hard-boiled eggs, etc. Bedtime – a set time and routine, daily – even on weekends. Preschoolers need between 11-12 hours of sleep nightly. If you struggle with bedtime, I have some tips which I am happy to share.2. Provide a home that is structured and relaxed – not tethered to a schedule that causes you to hurry every minute of the day. Build in margin; get organized. Yes, life is busy. Be thoughtful and intentional about planning your schedule and your children’s schedules and build in some weekend down-time. As your children get older, life will get busier so practice this discipline now.3. Administer liberal amounts of vitamin N says John Rosemond. “No” is the most character building word in the English language. Teach your child to receive a no without arguing and without negotiation or explanation, (Phil 2:14). This will take time, if this is new to your child.4. I know you teach your children to be respectful toward adults. As you talk about coaches, teachers, or pastors, never undermine a person in authority in front of your child, (Ephesians 4:29). Rather, go directly to the adult if something needs to be addressed. A critical spirit is easily taught in the home. Teach your children God’s design for the family org. chart.5. Read God’s Word or Bible stories daily. Pray. Talk about Jesus throughout the day in natural ways, as you walk along the way, as you lie down, and as you rise up. (Deut. 6:7)6. Keep technology and television out of your child’s bedroom (phones when they get older). Model good stewardship of electronic devices BEFORE your child starts using them. Unplug at meal times and model good listening and conversational skills. Do you spend more time reading emails and texts than you do God’s Word? More is caught than taught!7. Give your children much tender loving care. Be free in your expression of love by word and deed. Be more concerned about Christian attitudes and character than grades or athletics. Pray to see your child’s uniqueness and resist the comparison trap – for both your child and yourself!8. Stay on your knees. Pray for your child’s salvation. Jodie Berndt has written a book which includes biblically based prayers for each day of the month. I have a one-page summary. Ask me.9. Make your word good; if unsure, say maybe, but don’t commit and then dishonor your word. Yes, emergencies happen and that is an exception. Children learn to trust their parents before learning to trust God. God honors His Word, and parents need to honor theirs. If you give a directive, expect it to be done and then inspect. Lead with your demeanor and tone of voice.10. Live your convictions consistently; your behavior in the home will either support or negate what you are teaching your children. Perfection is impossible. Ask for and offer forgiveness. Pray for the Lord to teach you to be the parent He wants you to be. That is a prayer He wants to answer.
If you would like to reach out to Jeannie, you may email her at jbrostrand@redeemerdayschool.