Had another tough day controlling your child? Don’t worry, you’re not alone in this.
Parenting a preschooler can be a whirlwind – one minute they are giggling and the next minute a meltdown takes center stage. As children keep growing and exploring the world around them, parents tend to face challenges like managing their tantrums, encouraging independence and supporting their child’s cognitive development in early childhood.
What are Parenting Issues?
Parenting issues refer to the challenges parents face while raising their children, such as managing tantrums, picky eating, or setting screen time limits. These problems can arise during any stage of a child’s life and are influenced by factors like family dynamics, financial pressures, or balancing work and household responsibilities.
Common Parenting Problems And Their Solutions
- Feeling Control: Children at times have difficulties with emotional control, giving rise to issues such as a temper tantrum or a meltdown. Teach your child the techniques of deep breathing and counting to ten, which foster self-calming. Acknowledge their feelings, emotions, and behavior, and assist them in knowing how to describe their feelings.Â
- Eating Habits: At times it can be stressful to ensure balanced nutrition for children due to their picky eating habits and selective food rejection. Create a relaxed environment and don’t force your child to eat. Make eye-catching, colourful recipes to encourage children to eat more.Â
- Establishing Limits On Screens: Digital devices have the potential to discourage physical activities and interfere with pre-set routines. Establishing limits on screen time can prove to be an uphill battle. Do not ban the usage of screens, instead create time restrictions that limit the amount of digital screen time children have and create a balance to ensure activity, family-time, and learning. Appreciate your child every time they stop watching the screen on their own post the set time to encourage positive reinforcement.Â
- Social Skills Development: Preschool-age children at times find taking turns, sharing and waiting for their turn, a bit challenging. Encourage proper social interactions and integrate them in planned group activities and playdates. Gently correct their social interaction mistakes like talking abruptly while someone else is talking or being too controlling while playing with others, and praise them when they attempt to share or play friendly.
- Communication Barriers: Preschoolers have a limited vocabulary and communication skill which makes it hard for parents to figure out their needs or expectations. Spend time with your child calmly and allow him or her the needed time to speak out. Do not use complex words and try using simple questions to encourage your child to talk about their emotions.Â
- Uncontrollable Tantrums: Unlike whining, tantrums tend to occur much more chaotically where your child refuses to calm down. Stay composed and try not to yell. Give your child time out in a calm area until they feel relaxed enough to talk. After their tantrums have subsided, tell them how important all their emotions are.
Why Do Children Experience Emotional Mood Swings?
Due to preschoolers constantly developing, they find it difficult expressing a wide range of feelings. This stage involves a desire for independence paired with the need for comfort, causing mood swings. These emotions can shift due to changes in the environment, unfulfilled expectations or even frustration. Having a strong and encouraging background allows preschoolers to express emotions and learn self-control.
Conclusion
All parents have some difficult days with their preschoolers, but knowing the reasons for their actions makes guiding them easier. Attention to emotional control, speech, and social interaction aids their development. Providing quality early childhood care and nurturing cognitive development in early childhood creates a strong foundation for a child’s long-term growth and success. Tune into Podar Prep’s Podcast for expert tips and resources to nurture your child’s potential. Visit Podar Prep’s website to learn more!
