July means more than just fireworks and cookouts. As designated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, July also is the month for purposeful parenting.
But why July? It’s because school is out for the summer and most kids can be found spending time at home during the long vacation. This gives parents the time to have open discussions with their children and really have a chance for productive talks.
Open communication between both parents and children allows for feelings on various issues to be explained and examined. At the same time, these discussions support the child’s growth and quest for independence.
According to Dr. Mary Ann Franco, purposeful parenting is similar to positive parenting as it “embodies a specific set of goals and objectives for the child. The most outstanding benefit of purposeful parenting would be that you will attain your hopes, wishes, and desires for your child in a very conscious, deliberate, and intentional manner.”
Because of their role in a child’s life, parents have a great impact on what children end up expecting for themselves and of others. Purposeful parenting helps set the baseline for positive interactions in a child’s early years, and will only benefit them over their lifetime.
Dr. Mary Ellen Renna, a board-certified pediatrician, mother, and author of the book “10 Steps to Almost Perfect Parenting” spells out tips for purposeful parenting. Some ideas: implementing the age-old adage “no means no;” making sure to find one-on-one time with your child; and that each child has daily household chores.
Purposeful parenting is more than just an action, it’s a way of being.
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