When you go looking for parenting advice, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. It’s easy to get bogged down comparing yourself to other parents. Some parents seem to have it all together. But, just remember that everyone has their struggles.
Everyone doubts their ability to be a good parent. We all worry that we are going to screw up our kids. But, those doubts and caring enough to want to do the job right is exactly what makes us good parents. So, I want you to know that you’re doing just fine. Here are 10 signs to help you know that you’re a good parent.
1. Your Kids Are Happy.
If your children are fundamentally happy, chances are very high that you are doing right by them. Bad parents don’t foster happy children.
2. You Love Your Kids.
This seems a bit like a gimme, I know. But there are people out there who know they have children in the world and still actively choose not to be a part of their lives. They don’t have feelings for their children or any kind of bond with them. If you are a parent that is separated from your kids and are trying hard to regain connection, you are doing great. Don’t ever stop fighting for them.
3. You Take An Active Role In Keeping Your Children Safe.
You make sure their car seat is securely installed. You hold their hand when you cross a street or busy parking lot. You make sure they stay in your sight in public places that they might get lost in easily.
4. You Spend Quality Time With Your Kids.
Studies show that the quality of time with parents is more valuable to the bond than quantity of time. As long as you make time for your kids each day, whether it be an hour or 10 hours, actively engaging with them makes you one stellar parent.
5. You Comfort Your Children When They’re Upset.
Most of the time, this can be instinctual, especially if our children are physically hurting. But, if all you want to do is make the boo-boos go away, you’re supporting your child in the best way by showing them love. That’s a beautiful and marvelous thing.
6. You Care About Your Child’s Development and Encourage It the Best Way You Know How.
I can’t even tell you how many parent forum posts I’ve read where parents are asking if their child is developmentally appropriate. “Is it OK that they aren’t walking yet? Should my child be crawling by now? When should I worry?” This shows that you’re in tune to your child’s development and likely will be encouraging the next milestone and supporting your child as they get there.
7. You Take An Active Interest In Your Child’s Life.
This somewhat goes along with #6 above. But, you monitor what your child is doing. You make sure their friends are the good kids. You try to plan fun activities to do with your child to give them some life experiences.
8. You Always Make Sure Your Kids Have Something To Eat.
This doesn’t always mean that you’re preparing what your kids are eating. If your financial situation is one in which you cannot afford food, actively ensuring your children don’t go hungry by seeking out free programs for them means you’re a great parent. You don’t have to be perfect, just meet their needs in the best way you can in your situation.
9. You Treat Your Children With Compassion and Respect.
You also expect others to treat your child with compassion and respect.
10. You Make Sure To Act As a Good Role Model for Your Kids.
Modeling good behavior is essential to good parenting. Your kids are essentially tiny yous. If you’ve picked up some bad behaviors along the way of life, and you’re now modeling these bad behaviors, your kids will likely follow suit. But, if you make a conscious effort to model good behavior in front of your children, they will likely follow in your footsteps.
I hope this post was helpful if you’re having any doubts about your ability to be a good parent. Chances are, you’re doing great. Keep it up!
Much love and productive vibes,
Momma Caped Nerd ❤
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