Before we take on any of life’s biggest challenges, we are always sure to establish a concrete plan, seek expert advice, and equip ourselves with the right strategies to perform well. So, when we take on the life-changing role of being a parent, why should it be any different?
Parenting classes can teach new parents how to care for a newborn, what they should expect in the coming weeks or months, and how to cater to a baby’s developmental needs. But, parenting classes do not just cater to new parents. They also cater to any parent who wants to build a stronger emotional bond with their child. It is important to learn how to care for your child’s emotional needs as it will stay with them throughout their entire lives.
Here are 5 reasons why parenting classes can help you become a better parent
Learn how to effectively communicate and engage with children in a VUCA world
Have you ever heard of the term VUCA? VUCA stands for volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity—it shows that the world is constantly changing. We too need to change. One way to do this is by avoiding outdated approaches and looking for new ones.
One of the most important parts of parenting is learning to be engaged with your child. Especially, in this day and age where technology easily distracts us and makes us feel disconnected. The way you were brought up then may not be relevant today. Parenting in a VUCA world can be challenging if you do not know what approach to take. Therefore, it is important to seek help whenever necessary and learn how to effectively engage with your child with expert help.
Be informed of the latest findings in dealing with children
Studies have shown that what may seem effective, like praising your child for their great work on their first try, could backfire in the future as they might associate praise with good work. This could lead them to be discouraged when faced with harder challenges in the future. To combat this, parents should praise their children for their hard work and effort, rather than solely on the outcome. But not many parents have time to go through these research articles and keep up to date with these new findings just to parent their kids to the best of their ability. So, why not opt for parenting classes? Parenting classes can keep you up to date with the research. They can help you understand the findings better and teach you how to implement the techniques if they are suitable for your child!
Discover how to match your parenting style to your child’s personality
A large part of parenting is not just about learning how to raise or discipline your child. It is learning how to match your parenting style to your child’s personality. All children are born different and they all have varied needs. Therefore, we cannot just assume that all popular parenting techniques will benefit our children the same way. By going to parenting classes, you can identify how your child acts and how you can cater to their personality. When you find a parenting style that fits your child’s personality, they are much more likely to thrive and carry that with them into adulthood.
Develop a support network with other Singaporean parents
As a parent, you may feel isolated and find it hard to share your struggles amongst your peers, especially if you are a new parent. Joining a parenting class allows you to connect with other parents who are also invested in learning how to parent better. By connecting with these parents, you can feel more supported and know that you are not on this journey alone. There may also be other parents who have gone through the same struggles you have and are more than happy to discuss them in-depth and share advice. Though, be mindful that parenting classes are not a support group, rather a place to meet other parents and learn more together!
Gain Confidence
There is no doubt that parenting is hard, and oftentimes, you might be faced with the doubts of “Am I doing this right?”. But feeling confident, or sometimes faking it, in your parenting decisions is crucial for your child to build trust. Without this confidence, your child might sense your uncertainty and struggle with trusting others in the future. By going to parenting classes, you will receive reassurance that your parenting techniques are correct. You can learn other techniques which you can use with confidence. And as mentioned above, building a community with other parents to share your struggles and learn what they have done can also build your confidence!
There is no perfect parent in the world, but with parenting classes, you can expand your knowledge on how to become a better parent and build a stronger bond with your child. You could also build a stronger bond by spending some quality playtime with your child and buying them a new toy with our $15 Kiddy Palace Voucher!
If you would like to learn more about parenting classes or book one for yourself, click here. Let them know that Half Half Parenting sends you!
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