BOUNDARIES: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

Teaching children about boundaries is a crucial aspect of parenting. Doing it properly will help your child to move through their whole life in a healthier way. Let's dive in!

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One of the hardest challenges that parents face today is setting boundaries with their children. Saying no to children from an early age is the approach that a lot of parents take, and they often stick with that approach for their little one's whole childhood. Lots of parents think that saying no and stating things in a black and white way is a good method because it seems to work initially. The problems appear further down the line as children mature and communication suffers.

COMMUNICATION IS KEY

Setting out house rules or family guidelines is the way forward. It lets everyone know where they stand and keeps lines of communication open. Studies have shown that this healthy process of boundary-setting can be very beneficial for children by helping them to develop problem-solving skills, accountability, discipline and adaptability. Here are some things to keep in mind when laying down boundaries for your children.

Clear and positive

Create clear and simple expectations and keep them positive. Avoid a list of forbidden things and instead focus on the good things you expect your little ones to do. Help them to understand by explaining why you have these expectations and why they're beneficial for both you and them!

Lead by example

Be a role model. Children often mirror the behaviour of their parents, so be sure to set a good example for your child to follow. You can use this to teach them the right times to say yes or no.

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