Positive parenting basics
🟢 Evidence-based
Children tend to do best with warmth, predictable routines and clear, kind limits. The WHO has published guidelines on parenting programmes that aim to strengthen the parent–child relationship and prevent harsh treatment, and programmes developed with WHO and UNICEF are used in many countries.
Six everyday habits
- Plan one-on-one time. Even ten minutes a day, with your full attention and no phone.
- Notice what goes well. Say specifically what you liked: “You put your shoes away without being asked.”
- Keep a simple routine. Regular meals, sleep and homework times help children feel secure.
- Give calm, clear instructions. One request at a time, in a friendly voice.
- Respond to misbehaviour calmly. Use small, fair consequences. Health organisations advise against hitting or humiliating children, because it can harm them and does not teach better behaviour.
- Look after your own stress. A tired, stressed parent finds everything harder. See “Looking after yourself while caring for others”.
Try this week
Choose a daily ten-minute time. Let your child pick the activity. Follow their lead and describe what they are doing, without correcting.
When to seek help
Talk to a doctor, a school counsellor or a child specialist if a child’s mood, sleep, behaviour or schooling has changed for weeks, if you often feel you may lose control, or if a child talks about harming themselves. If anyone may be in immediate danger, contact your local emergency services.