All of us, parents, always say: I want my child to be happy and healthy. Awesome! We wish the best things for our offspring. But how many of us actually realise that us-parents are capable of making our children happy? We say that times are tough. Well, they always were. Raising a happy child is not as difficult, as many of us think. Forget about the politics, electric bill, the price of petrol, noisy neighbour. Don't leave everything to the 'luck'. So, if you want to know how to raise a happy child, keep on reading.
1. BOND WITH YOUR CHILD
Make a habit of talking to your child about everything. Start as early as possible (preferably when you're still pregnant). If you don't know what topic to pick, start from something as simple as describing the weather, the room you are in, your mood. In the future, there won't be a subject you will feel ashamed to discuss with your kids.
Always be there for your child. When he cries, take him to your shoulders. Listen, when he talks.
Give him your attention. Put your smartphone down for a minute and enjoy being with your kid.
Kiss and cuddle. You both need it. And, trust me, you will miss it once he grows up.Teach your child to identify and name the feelings. This is a core of a good relationship and a happy life.
Share your hobbies with your child. This will not only bond you with him but also add a new dynamic to your relationship.
2. MAKE HIM FEEL SAFE
Nobody can be happy when feeling anxious.
Stay calm, even though sometimes it is difficult. Try meditation, take a deep breath. In the heat of the moment think about what you are grateful for or why you love your child. This will help you to calm down immediately.
Ensure your child is growing up in a calm environment. Turn the TV off, ask other family members not to shout or make unnecessary noise (like slamming the doors or shouting).
Never threaten your child to leave him behind. I don't think any explanation is needed here.
Read about the separation anxiety. This will help you to understand your baby better.
Do not let your child cry out. Never! This infamous, old-fashioned method ruins baby's mental health. You can read more about it here.
Breastfeed, if you can. It will help you to deal with baby blues and postnatal depression, and it will make your baby feel safe. It can be difficult at the very beginning, so do your research when you're pregnant. The more you know, the easier it gets. Breastfeeding is a real lifesaver for me. It helped me on countless occasions.
Most of the babies like being swaddled. Baby slings/ wraps will make your baby feel safe and your hands-free.And when your baby is able to sit, you can switch to a baby carrier.
3. HAVE FUN TOGETHER
Play with your child. There are so many cool games you can play together. From the good old hide and seek, to painting, making a puppet theatre, reading together or writing stories. Smile to him! Nobody enjoys staring at grumpy faces. And remember that your child is your mirror. The happier you are, the happier he is.
Explore the world together. From watching the mum bird feeding her brood, to climbing mountains. If he wakes up at dawn and cannot sleep, watch your town wake up instead of watching cartoons. Do it together.
Practice gratitude. Ungrateful people will never be happy. Here you can read more about the power of gratitude.
4. RESPECT YOUR CHILD
He might be little, but he is a human. He has his needs, his opinions and feelings. Respect them! We all know how horrible beating children is. But we do not talk enough about all sorts of emotional abuse. Forcing kids to eat, constant criticising, bullying. These things happen in most of the households.
5. BUILD UP HIS SELF-ESTEEM
Let him make mistakes. We all make them! Do not expect perfection, but praise his efforts. Say compliments and give him unconditional love. Support his growth. Learn to give him feedback instead of criticising. Self-discipline is a key to success. Teach him that.
6. LET HIM BE INDEPENDENT
Does he want to brush his own hair? Help you to bake? Choose his own outfit? Let him do it. These days some adults can not prepare a simple meal from scratch. Scary!
7. DO NOT FORGET ABOUT YOURSELF
Last, but certainly not least. Do not forget about yourself. Being a mother, or being a parent in general, is forever. Your child is important, but you are too! Do your blood checks, remember to hydrate and nutrition your body. Have your own hobbies, chase your dreams! You deserve it.
Parenthood is a beautiful, beautiful journey. Enjoy every second of it!