Positive parenting entails motivating children to cooperate in a variety of ways.

One way is to ask them to do something necessary rather than ordering. Think about the tasks you are empowered to do at work and how it makes you feel when the leaders in your organization treat you with respect and appreciation. Focusing on the nurturing of your child’s needs can prove more successful than always trying to “fix” the problem.

Providing rewards is a common method to evoke cooperation. However, if it is the only technique utilized, the plan may become counterproductive. Basically, rewards are great for stimulation of appropriate behaviors. Yet, they do not necessarily provide children with the understanding, structure, direction and consistency that is important for successful child-rearing.

When disciplining children, there are times when they show resistance, being that some physical need has not been met. For example, they might feel exasperated, hungry, bored or achy. Once you have considered their needs, remember every reward must be linked in some way to the behavior the child is being asked to modify. Some parents fail to realize that the greatest reward doesn’t have to come from monetary means. Quality time spent together is priceless.

The very things one might consider to take away from a child, as punishment, could be used as a reward.     

The more time spent together, the more ideas are shared and bonding occurs. When young people are engaged in activities, they gain self-confidence. Feeling good about themselves enables them to develop and improve their team-building and leadership skills. In addition, they become better role models for their peers.

Young people love to become motivated and inspired. They love to discover new experiences and talents. As a result, their fuel for learning can become contagious for adults. They also become more involved at home, school and in the community when they are given the opportunity to express their concerns and interests. When young people feel they have a stake in decisions that affect them, they are more likely to support the resulting solutions. Moreover, in order for them to work efficiently in groups, it is imperative that they feel respected, appreciated, trusted and worthy of serving as a key member.

One reason children should feel good about themselves is that a child’s self-esteem is the key to adjustment, happiness and a constructive sense of purpose in life. It generally leads to emotional maturity and enhances independent behavior. Children gain a sense of self-worth through their interactions with parents, friends and other significant people that surround them.

When attempting to build a child’s self-esteem, follow these hints:

• Use statements that build feelings of adequacy

• Focus on the good character traits

• Plan to attend school functions regularly

• Play games and read books together

• Acknowledge different types of feelings expressed

• Remember to express your feelings of attention and love

Keep in mind: Pride, respect, honesty, and courtesy are vital attributes that promote positive character. These should be taught at home and at school.