Anyone can be a Parent but being good parents raising awesome kids can be challenging. It takes deliberate, consistent actions to thrive.

Here is a good place to start. 5 things you should stop doing to raise awesome kids.

1. Stop looking for a MANUAL, there isn’t any.

There is absolutely no book in the world that can prepare you 100% for parenthood.  It’s okay to read books, blogs, and gain more knowledge about how children think, act and communicate, but it is far more important to know your child. Your child is unique and what’s applicable to one is never applicable to all in parenting.

2. Stop pretending to be a perfect parent

You’ll burn out fast! Nobody is perfect. You child loves you just as you are. It is okay to show some emotions, weaknesses and vulnerability so you don’t create imaginary pictures of you in your child’s mind that he’ll always feel like a failure knowing he will never be as good as you.

“At every step the child should be allowed to meet the real experience of life; the thorns should never be plucked from his roses” — Ellen Key

3. Stop shielding them from challenges

Shielding children from challenges does more harm than good. As parents we develop many natural instincts. One of which is shielding children from struggles. This only harms their resilience. In the earliest weeks and months of life, it is a purely physical function to protect from hunger, a lack of companionship and the cold. As the child grows this instinct to protect evolves. Over time it comes to include most aspects of their physical and emotional health. Allowing them try to overcome obstacles helps to build resilience and problem-solving skills. So next time you are tempted to hold their lego castle from crumbing, look away and let her figure it out herself.

4. Say no excessive use of mobile devices both by you and by them.

With the penetration of digital technology, parenting without it has become far more challenging. Provide creative learning environments and get involved actively with them.

“Technology is just a tool. In terms of getting the kids working together and motivating them, the teacher is the most important.” – Bill Gates.

5. Stop comparing

It’s hard not to compare. I get it but what comparison does is, it focuses on the area your child seems to be lagging behind and takes the spotlight of the other genius areas. Leave your neighbours’ child alone, focus on yours. Research how to help him improve in that particular area. Let her know she is amazing but also teach her how to put in the work to achieve their dreams. This can be easily taught with simple responsibilities like daily chores.