Nine Steps to More Effective Parenting

From http://kidshealth.org/parent/pos itive/family/nine_steps.html&nbs p;

Raising children is one of the toughest and most fulfilling jobs in the world - and the one for which you may feel the least prepared. Here are nine ways to tackle child-rearing responsibilities that can help you feel more fulfilled as a parent - and enjoy your child more, too.

Nurture your child's self- esteem.

Children start developing their sense of self as babies when they see themselves through their parents' eyes. Your tone of voice, your body language, and your every expression are absorbed by your child. Your words and actions as a parent affect your child's developing self-esteem more than anything else. Praising your child's accomplishments, however small, will make him or her feel proud; letting your child do things independently will make him or her feel capable and strong. By contrast, belittling comments or comparing your child unfavourably with another will make him or her feel worthless.