Ask the Expert Series: Gentle and Positive Parenting During COVID-19! 👩🏻‍⚕️

Cries indicate a child needs something. Let us pay attention to what they need. There are times that they appear to be demanding and we want to stand our ground. In situations like so, redirect their attention onto something else.  If they are tired or overstimulated, coach them in techniques that can help calm themselves down. (e.g. music, making sounds, carrying them, patting them) and remember to compliment them when they are calmer.

Children are more resilient than we realise. Many of the children are able to manage it and do not worry much about it. But to be on the safe side: - Take note of the little to drastic changes - Find ways to communicate with him in ways where he would feel most comfortable (E.g. post-its, whiteboards) - Have movie/game nights where all can unwind - Have meals - Ensure that he has sufficient spaces to feel and talk about what he feels comfortable to - Ask him directly how he is feeling about the pandemic

The pandemic has brought mundane to a whole new level! Give your child projects like, learning something new, achieving a physical goal, etc. Having goals helps your child see what he is working towards. You should provide him with encouragement so that he knows he is on track. A reward once in awhile helps too! 

There is no hard and fast rule. Your child may be able to understand the concept of discipline, as early as 8 months of age. However, it is important for you to define what you mean by discipline, as well as have a discussion with your spouse what role each plays in disciplining the child.

Gentle parenting comprise of 4 main elements: empathy, respect, understanding, and boundaries.We can try the following:1. empathy: be aware and considerate of child's feelings. understand root cause of child's misbehaviour e.g. sign of distress, anxiety 2. respect: Let's respect the child's unique feelings and personality. When we respect our children our children will learn to respect us. We do not command respect through fear or power. 3. understanding: We should have appropriate expectations towards child, based on their development. Not all children have the same emotion regulation skills, abstract thinking skills etc. hence we should try and understand how our behavior impacts children4. boundaries: Gentle parenting also encourages discipline. gentle discipline is age appropriate (consider brain development), positive, respectful, empathetic and intelligent. teach qualities parents want children to have in life. Do set boundaries and limits to things that really matter, constantly

There are 5 steps in positive parenting: 1) Create a safe, interesting environment: to encourage your child to play and explore their world 2) Have a positive learning environment: let your child know you are there for them when they come to you for help or attention. e.g. ask them about their day, spend short but frequent amounts of quality time 3) Use assertive discipline: be consistent, act quickly when children misbehave, teach them to behave in an acceptable manner 4) Have realistic expectations: be mindful of your child's personality and development 5) Finally, take care of yourself as parents

Gentle parenting comprise of 4 main elements: empathy, respect, understanding, and boundaries.We can try the following:1. empathy: be aware and considerate of child's feelings. understand root cause of child's misbehaviour e.g. sign of distress, anxiety 2. respect: Let's respect the child's unique feelings and personality. When we respect our children our children will learn to respect us. We do not command respect through fear or power. 3. understanding: We shoulhave appropriate expectations towards child, based on their development. Not all children have the same emotion regulation skills, abstract thinking skills etc. hence we should try and understand how our behavior impacts children4. boundaries: Gentle parenting also encourages discipline. gentle discipline is age appropriate (consider brain development), positive, respectful, empathetic and intelligent. teach qualities parents want children to have in life. Do set boundaries and limits to things that really matter, constantly e