Parenting on Purpose

As a parent, the most important work you will ever do is to raise your child. At first glance, it might seem like this work is done instinctively. But parenting on purpose means consciously choosing and actively following specific parenting practices based on developmental research and data-driven best practices. Parenting intentionally requires planning and commitment, but it doesn't have to be daunting or overly complicated. An intentional parent recognizes that his or her role is to provide structure for children, set boundaries for them, and model appropriate behaviors consistently--even when their child may not want those boundaries or may struggle with them.

What does it mean to parent on purpose?

Parenting on purpose means being intentional about your parenting. It's a conscious decision to be aware of the needs of your child, and responding to them in ways that are thoughtful and loving.

It also means being a good communicator with your child. One of the best ways for you to communicate with them is by listening to them; this will help develop trust, which is essential if you want your relationship with your child to thrive!

If you're going through these steps alone or without help from others, then I highly recommend having some kind of support system around you so that when things get tough it isn't just up to you anymore."

Engaging, Connecting, and Responsive Parenting

• Engaging parenting is child-centered. It's about the child having fun and enjoying himself or herself.

• Connecting parenting is parent-centered. It's about the parent being close to his or her children, providing love and warmth, and giving them all they need as a parent.

• Responsive parenting is both child- and parent-centered. It involves engaging with your kids while also connecting with them at a deeper level so that you can guide them in their development as people.

Why are these styles of parenting important?

Parenting on purpose is important because it helps you be more effective with your children.

Being able to parent intentionally will help you be more responsive to your child's needs, which in turn makes them feel loved and valued.

This can have a positive impact on their self-esteem, mental health and happiness.

How can I be an engaged parent?

You may be wondering, "What is an engaged parent?" An engaged parent is someone who prioritizes their child's needs and wants, while also finding ways to build a strong relationship with them.

Engaged parents are responsive, good listeners and problem solvers. They make their children feel safe by knowing when to step in or step back. These connections are what form healthy bonds between parents and children—and it all starts with how we communicate with our kids.

How do I connect with my child?

• Connect with your child by spending time with them.

• Connect with your child by listening to them.

• Connect with your child by being interested in what they are interested in

As a parent, how do I demonstrate responsiveness to my child?

As a parent, it's important to respond to your child's needs and be sensitive to their feelings. This can be accomplished by being aware of their interests, abilities and personality.

Your intentionality matters.

The first step to being more intentional is to ask yourself if this is something you want to do. If not, it’s okay. It’s really important for us all to be clear about what our priorities are and what we can actually commit time and energy towards.

If the answer is yes, then ask yourself if there are ways in which you can make this experience better for others. Maybe there are things that you could do differently or better - like communicating with people more effectively, becoming more aware of how your actions affect those around you and making sure they understand where they fit into the bigger picture.

Intentional parenting will help you be more effective with your children.

Intentional parenting can help you be more effective with your kids.

You'll be a better parent because you'll understand that being a good dad is not about how much time you spend with your children, but how well you use the time that you do have.

Intentional parenting will also help you be a better person. It allows us to grow into our full potential as human beings, becoming the kind of people who we want our children to become when they grow up: compassionate, responsible adults who live lives filled with purpose and meaning.

Conclusion

I want to help families find their own way and succeed. I want to remind you that it's not about being perfect, but rather about being purposeful and intentional in your approach.