3 Signs of Great Parenting

While we are parenting, most of us wonder at times about the quality of the parenting job that we are doing. I know that has been true for me over the years. Here are a few signs to let you know you are doing a great parenting job.



1. Your children use good manners without prompting. When your child says “Hello” upon entering a room, says “Thank you” when she receives a gift or “You’re welcome” when someone gives her thanks, says “Excuse me” or uses the word “please” without being prompted to do so, that’s a good sign of great parenting. Your child has heard you teach her how to do and say those words at the appropriate time, and they have become a part of who she is. She has also seen and heard you model these responses. Everyone enjoys children who have and use their manners appropriately. And it’s even more enjoyable when children use them on their own.

2. Your children respect you, other adults and authority figures in their lives. All children need to know how to respect adults and those who care for them, from parents and grandparents to older family members, teachers, principals, store clerks and public officers such as emergency personnel who help us in times of need. They need to be able to show esteem and honor for these individuals who have their best interests at heart and who demonstrate that concern through their words and deeds. Great work if your child respects the adults in her life.

3. Your children know and follow established rules and routines for meals, bedtime, outings, and family time. Children like rules and routines. The routines help them know what is going to happen in their lives and leave little open to chance. When children have specific routines, they learn how they should behave at certain times. In other words, they know what to do, when to do it, and can tell others what the drill is supposed to be. These rules and routines help bring order and consistency to your living environment. And they help your children understand the process of daily living. More power to you if your children know and follow your rules and routines.

These are just three signs of quality parenting. Of course, there are many more, but these three are lessons in civility that will carry your child far in the game of life if she simply adheres to them. If your child does not follow these lessons, fear not! It is not too late to begin to train her. Just start now. And if your child already follows these rules, kudos to you! You are on your way to developing the kind of human being you will like as an adult.

Veda Pendleton McClain is a mother, grandmother, author, and educator. She recently released her second book on parenting titled, Your Presence Is Requested. It is available through www.amazon.com or at www.vedamcclain.com .