The Mackay Women’s Centre is a Triple P provider, which means Mackay families can access free parenting help at our centre through our Family Life Program — For Mums and Dads.
The Triple P – Positive Parenting Program is a world-acclaimed parenting program that arms parents with skills to manage all sorts of issues that affect families everywhere.
It’s aim is to help parents raise confident, healthy children and to build stronger family relationships. It can help parents manage a variety of issues, from toddler tantrums to screen time battles, and prevent problems before they begin.
READ: What is the Triple P Parenting Program — and how can it benefit my family?
Here are Triple P’s top 10 tips for parents
Stop and pay attention
When your child wants to show you something, stop what you are doing and pay attention to your child. It is important to spend frequent, small amounts of time with your child doing things that you both enjoy.
Give regular physical affection
Give your child lots of physical affection – children often like hugs, cuddles, and holding hands.
Make time to chat
Talk to your child about things he/she is interested in and share aspects of your day with your child.
Praise them and be specific
Give your child lots of descriptive praise when they do something that you would like to see more of, e.g.,”Thank you for doing what I asked straight away.”
Provide opportunities for engaging open-ended play
Children are more likely to misbehave when they are bored so provide lots of engaging indoor and outdoor activities for your child, e.g., playdough, coloring, cardboard boxes, dress up items, cubby houses, etc.
Teach new skills and behaviours
Teach your child new skills by first showing the skill yourself, then giving your child opportunities to learn the new skill. For example, speak politely to each other in the home. Then, prompt your child to speak politely (example, say “please” or “thank you”), and praise your child for their efforts.
Have simple and consistent rules and consequences
Set clear limits on your child’s behavior. Sit down and have a family discussion on the rules in the home. Let your child know what the consequences will be if they break the rules.
Be calm and clear when your child misbehaves
If your child misbehaves, stay calm and give them a clear instruction to stop misbehaving and tell them what you would like them to do instead (for example, “Stop fighting; play nicely with each other”. Praise your child if they stop. If they do not stop, follow through with an appropriate consequence.
Have realistic expectations
All children misbehave at times and it is inevitable that you will have some discipline hassles. Trying to be the perfect parent can set you up for frustration and disappointment.
Look after yourself
It is difficult to be a calm, relaxed parent if you are stressed, anxious, or depressed. Try to find time every week to let yourself unwind or do something that you enjoy.
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To learn more about our Triple P — Positive Parenting Program or to book an appointment please phone 07 4953 1788 or email reception@mkywc.org.au.