Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Sue Scheff: Parenting Wrap-Up 2009


Last January 2009 I posted some quick tips for parenting in the New Year. As we head into 2010, let's be reminded of 2009. Many of these tips never stop helping you being a better parent. Being an educated parent should always be your priority.

1. Communication: Keeping the lines of communication of your child should be a priority with all parents. It is important to let your kids know you are always there for them no matter what the subject is. If there is a subject you are not comfortable with, please be sure your child has someone they can open up to. I believe that when kids keep things bottled up, it can be when negative behaviors can start to grow.

2. Knowing your Children's Friends: This is critical, in my opinion. Who are your kids hanging out with? Doing their homework with? If they are spending a lot of time at a friends house, go out of your way to call the parent introduce yourself. Especially if they are spending the night at a friends house, it important to take time to call the parents or meet them. This can give you a feeling of security knowing where your child is and who they are with.

3. Know your Child's Teachers - Keep track of their attendance at school: Take time to meet each teacher and be sure they have your contact information and you have theirs if there are any concerns regarding your child. In the same respect, take time to meet your child's Guidance Counselor.

4. Keep your Child Involved: Whether it is sports, music, drama, dance, and school clubs such as chess, government, school newspaper or different committees such as prom, dances and other school activities. Keeping your child busy can keep them out of trouble. If you can find your child's passion - whether it is football, soccer, gymnastics, dance, music - that can help keep them focused and hopefully keep them on track in school.

5. Learn about Internet Social Networking: In today's Cyber generation this has to be a priority. Parents need to help educate their kids on Cyber Safety - think before they post, help them to understand what they put up today, may haunt them tomorrow. Don't get involved with strangers and especially don't talk about sex with strangers. Avoid meeting in person the people you meet online without you being there. On the same note - cell phone and texting - don't allow your child to freely give out their cell numbers and never post them online. Parents should consider ReputationDefender/MyChild to further help protect their children online.


Learn more tips from 2009 >>>>>

Parenting 2010 - Five Part Series that will help you become more computer savvy to further protect your kids while they surf online.

Do you have an at-risk teen? Visit www.helpyourteens.com

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