Raising children is one of the most challenging yet enriching responsibility you will ever do. It's among the few things in life for which you might feel least prepared for. But the more you experience and learn about it, the better you become at it. Trends are among the things no one will prepare you for yet you will have to somehow figure out a way to embrace some of them. This applies even to providers of childcare in North Ryde.
Trends come in different forms - social, educational, technological etc. Some appear overnight and sweep everyone off their feet; others happen gradually. The majority of them will subtly manifest themselves into your everyday activities.
Trends are usually temporary, but in this age and time, they spread like wildfire across the globe. Understand that it’s absolutely normal to love these trends or be a bit sceptical about them as a parent.
Today we look at some of the top trends for mums, dads and kids in 2020.
Limited Screen Privileges
It’s been proven that too much screen time affects your child’s brain development. Your little ones probably have their own phones and tablets. Consider it a problem if they feel entitled to having a phone.
Most probably they don’t understand when to use it and when not to. Accordion to multiple studies, less screen time can lead to a better mind and body for your kids.
One way providers of childcare in Chatswood and nearby suburbs deal with this is making sure your child has plenty of activities they can engage in. In fact, this is usually factored in the daycare curriculum.
Eco-friendly Family Products
Plastic has dominated the baby industry for a long time, but many parents are opting for something more environmentally friendly. Top on the list are clothes that are recycled cotton, cloth diapers and wood toys instead of plastic ones. A lot of these are made to last and help keep plastics out of landfills. You will also notice this in top daycare facilities when you explore their infrastructure, amenities and play objects.
Enhancing Your Child's Self-Esteem
Kids start nurturing their sense of self as infants when they see themselves through your point of view. The way you speak, your body language and every expression are observed by your children. Your words and acts as a parent impact their growing self-esteem more than any factor.
This is a healthy trend that most parents and guardians are embracing. Praising achievements, however small, will make them feel proud. Note that degrading comments or comparing your child unfavourably with another will make them feel worthless. Hurtful comments are also damaging.
When looking for child care in Macquarie Park or any other place, interview the caregivers to see if they are familiar with this aspect.
Casually 'catching' Your Kid In Their Best Behavior
Have you ever stopped to consider just how many times you react negatively to your kids on any day? You may find yourself judging far more often than praise.
A more approachable way is to catch your kid doing something right: "You made your bed without being asked?! that's terrific!" or "I can't believe you did the dishes, spot on!"
These remarks will go a long way in promoting good behaviour over the long run as opposed to frequent criticism.
Setting An Appropriate And Consistent Household Schedule
Discipline is essential in every household. The goal of discipline is to help your kids choose acceptable behaviours and learn self-control. They may test the limits you set for them, but they need those limits to grow into responsible adults. Establishing house rules helps your kids understand your expectations and be self-sufficient.
Healthier Food Options On The Menu
For years, kid’s menus at family restaurants would never be without french fries, grilled chicken and a light beverage to accompany either. But most parents nowadays are starting their kids out young when it comes to exploring healthier, organic foods.
Some restaurants are even taking note of this and expanding kid’s menus to be more inclusive of healthier food options. Facilities that provide childcare in Lindfield and every other suburb in Sydney have also adjusted their meal plans to include healthier food options.
More Quality Time With Your Family
It's often hard for parents and kids to get together for a family meal, let alone spend quality time together. But there is just about nothing your kids would love more.
Get up a few minutes earlier in the morning so you can have breakfast with your child, take an evening walk with them, drive them to attend child care. Pick them up also, if possible.
You'll definitely find it rewarding to schedule together time with your kids. Have a special time each week to be together and let your kids help decide how to spend the time.
More Communication
Don’t expect kids to do everything simply because you say so as a parent. They want and need explanations as much as adults do. If you don't take time to explain, your kids will begin to wonder about your values and intentions and whether they have any meaning. Parents who reason with their kids allow them to understand and learn in an objective way.
As 2020 pushes on, expect more trends to come up. The few we‘ve discussed here have generally been accepted and embraced by most parents and guardians in Australia. If you are looking for child care in North Ryde, focus on daycare centres that have a healthy approach to such modern trends.