Five of my favorite parenting tips
As a school counselor, I’ve learned that small changes in how we respond to children can have a big impact.
Here are five parenting strategies that can help build connection while encouraging positive behavior:
✅ Say “thank you” instead of “please” when giving directions. It communicates confidence that they’ll follow through.
✅ Tell children what you want them to do instead of what you want them to stop doing. “Use your walking feet” is easier for a child’s brain to process than “Don’t run.”
✅ When emotions start to build, add water. A bath, water play, or even washing hands can be surprisingly calming for many children.
✅ Go outside. Fresh air and movement often help children reset emotionally—sometimes a change of environment is all they need.
✅ Be present. Sitting on the floor while your child plays reminds them that your presence matters more than perfection.
Parenting isn’t about getting it right every time. It’s about building a relationship where children feel safe, seen, and supported. Those moments of connection are what help shape behavior over time.
Which of these tips has worked best for your family? I’d love to hear what’s helped you.
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In my experience, implementing these five parenting tips genuinely transforms how we connect and communicate with our children on a daily basis. One approach I found helpful is replacing “please” with “thank you” when giving instructions. It sounds subtle but actually boosts a child’s confidence by showing trust rather than issuing commands. This shift encourages cooperation without resistance. Focusing on what you want kids to do—rather than what you want them to stop—has a remarkable effect too. For example, saying “use your walking feet” instead of “don’t run” helps reduce confusion and calms their brain. It creates clearer expectations and reduces frustration on both sides. When emotions run high, incorporating water activities has been a game-changer in calming my own children as well as those I counsel. Whether it’s a quick hand wash, bath time, or playful water games, water has a soothing, almost resetting effect on the nervous system. Regular outdoor time also helps children regulate emotions naturally. Fresh air and movement act like a reset button, dispersing built-up energy or stress. Even simply stepping outside for a few minutes can prevent behavioral escalations and promotes mental clarity. Lastly, being present—literally sitting on the floor and playing alongside them—has deepened my relationships with kids. It shows them that your presence matters more than perfect parenting. These moments of connection foster safety and trust, which are essential foundations for positive behavior development. Parenting is never about perfection but about cultivating an environment where children feel safe, seen, and supported. These tips are powerful tools that, when practiced consistently, help build those crucial connections.