What's The Secret To Being A Great Parent? (EXPERT)

By Fern Weis. Posted on Nov 10th 2012.

If you're looking for the magic formula, look again. Here's the real secret to being a great parent

There are no secrets to being a ‘good’ parent. There are no truly “new” ideas out there. It’s all about a few basic principles: respect, responsibility, truth, flexibility, resilience, courage. Show it in words and actions so your kids know exactly how it looks and sounds. Those are the building blocks. Do them with greater and greater frequency and watch things change.

If you must, read some books, go to some workshops… but remember, there is no substitute for walking the walk and talking the talk. So what are you waiting for? Every moment of every day is a new chance to do it again, and do it better.

More from YourTango: Parents Are The Missing Link - A True Story (EXPERT)

As a parent, coach, and teacher, I know that repetition is the mother of skill. (No, it doesn’t mean you repeat yourself again and again with your kids. It’s not that kind of repetition.) It means you practice, practice, practice. And being a coach doesn’t mean I have it all figured out. I’m on the road, just like you.

Every day brings new challenges. No two situations are identical. Learn a new way to approach something. Apply it to a situation. Evaluate how effective it was. Modify if necessary. Do it again. Voila! This is true learning. It is also true teaching. Your kids are watching, even if they are rolling their eyes or ignoring you. They are hungry for you to guide them, even when they tell you otherwise.

Get more expert advice!

Article contributed by

View profile

Advanced Member

Fern Weis

Family Coach

Fern Weis

Coaching for Parents of Teens

Your Family Matters

FROM EYE-ROLLING TO I LOVE YOU: Transforming the parent-teen relationship. To be announced. Register at www.yourfamilymatterscoach.com/events.

TALK SO YOUR TEEN WILL LISTEN - 4-session program to cooperation, respect and love back into your family. Coming again September 2013. Sign up for program notices and parenting tips at www.yourfamilymatterscoach.com.

Location: Wayne, NJ

Credentials: Other

Specialties: Communication Problems, Parenting

Website: http://www.yourfamilymatterscoach.com

Parents Are The Missing Link - A True Story (EXPERT)

By Fern Weis

You say that your child's happiness and mental health are your top concerns. So what do you do when your child is depressed and hurting? Maybe hurting himself? Of course you get help. There are therapists and counselors, in-patient and out-patient programs specifically for children and adolescents. I've been there, and made ... Read more

Spring Cleaning: 3 Ways To Teach Your Kids About Saving Money

By Fern Weis

Now that we've mostly come out of hibernation (are you with us, Minnesota?) it's time to air out and clean out. Done any spring cleaning yet? You can clean out and organize your closets and clean your car all while saving some serious cash (and teaching your kids as a parent about money while you're at it). Here are some tips: 1. Steer clear of ... Read more

You Are the People You Hang Out With

By Fern Weis

From the day you are born you are like a sponge, absorbing the thoughts and opinions of others. You might say that every person with whom you come in contact is a mentor, influencing how you see yourself and the world. What are you taking in - negativity or inspiration, garbage or gold? And what do you put back out? How does this affect your self-esteem? Decide ... Read more