House rules: Tips for establishing guidelines for kids

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By Alexis Dill MS PLMFT, adill@stph.org

For parents, there’s no two ways about it: Rules rule.

Often, children misbehave because there are no established, clear-cut rules. Children thrive on consistency and structure, and when there are no rules, they tend to have a hard time. Rules set clear expectations, guidelines, and boundaries.

Below are some tips provided to you by The Parenting Center to help with making rules for your children:

• Make rules only if you really need them. Often it can be hard for young children to remember a lot of rules.
• Make developmentally appropriate rules. If you have teenagers, include them in the rule-making process. Allow them to have a say in what time they think their curfew and bedtime should be, as well as what their chores should be. Have realistic expectations for your children and adjust them according to age.
• Always try to state the rule in a positive way. For example instead of “no running” state “use your walking feet.” This tells the child what you want them to do.
• Always praise your children when you see them following the rules. A little positive reinforcement can go a long way.

Parenting is one of the toughest jobs and The Parenting Center is here for you! If making rules or sticking to the rules is something your family struggles with, please reach out! We are here to help. For $20, we offer Parenting Coaching by appointment, so call The Parenting Center to set up an appointment with one of our educators for guidance and assistance on how to help you create realistic rules for your household.

Below, find descriptions of upcoming Parenting Center classes for parents and new siblings. For details and a full calendar of events, visit STPH.org/Parenting Center, email adill@stph.org or call 985-898-4435.

• On Thursdays, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., the Parenting Center hosts a Baby and Me Support Group. The class is free, open to the public and facilitated by Education Coordinator Alexis Dill. This weekly group provides socialization for new babies as well as a time for new parents to collaborate and talk about new-parent struggles. For details, visit STPH.org/Parenting Center, email adill@stph.org or call 985-898-4435.
• Are you breastfeeding your baby? Are you pregnant and thinking about breastfeeding? Join our Family Breastfeeding Support class, where our primary goal is family support. The class is free and open to the public. All family members are welcome to come learn tips and tricks for the breastfeeding process. Meetings are held at the Parenting Center once a month. Our November class will be held on Monday, Nov. 2 at 10 a.m. For details, visit STPH.org/Parenting Center, email adill@stph.org or call 985-898-4435.
• Come out and join the Parenting Center’s BLS instructors as they do hands-on CPR training in our Friends and Family CPR class on Wednesday, Oct. 28 from 6 to 8 p.m.  You will gain great knowledge and skills needed for choking and breathing emergencies that may arise with your child, family member or anyone in your presence. (Note: This is not a CPR certified class, however the skills and knowledge that you gain can save lives.) COST: $30/per person. For details, visit STPH.org/Parenting Center, email adill@stph.org or call 985-898-4435.

Alexis Dill is a provisionally licensed marriage and family therapist. She serves as education coordinator at St. Tammany Health System’s Parenting Center and can be reached at adill@stph.org.