The most common parenting blunders usually are done out of love – and usually backfi re. Save yourself from facepalm moments with these strategies from DR RICHARD C. WOOLFSON.
The most common parenting blunders usually are done out of love – and usually backfi re. Save yourself from facepalm moments with these strategies from DR RICHARD C. WOOLFSON.
You let Baby sit on your lap in the car for a few minutes. The journey is short and you love every opportunity to cuddle him.
Why this is a mistake
Safety always comes first before other considerations. A traffic accident can happen at any time – the ride to the supermarket is short, but that doesn’t mean you should risk it. If your baby is not properly secured when travelling with you in the car, you’re endangering his life.
Do this instead
Resist all temptation to cuddle your child while driving. Ensure he is in a car seat for the entire trip, despite his protests.
You’ve stopped noticing those amazing stages in Baby’s progress. Your attention is on those seemingly endless baby-care chores.
Why this is a mistake
Your cutie’s first year will whizz by, and you’ll suddenly realise that you missed those special “firsts” (like his first smile)
Do this instead
Make a special effort to observe and enjoy subtle changes in Baby’s development. It is okay to not complete everything on your to-do list today.
You wish you were as good as other parents. You still have your parenting “L” plate and you’re lacking confidence.
Why this is a mistake
It’s perfectly normal to experience self-doubt. Others may look like wonderful parents, but know that they will also struggle at times. The more experience you build in caring for your child, the more skilful you become. Give yourself time.
Do this instead
Focus on your strengths and achievements, not your weaknesses. Stop assuming every other parent is better than you.
You slowly and steadily let his bedtime get later and later. It gives you more time with him especially since you get home so late.
Why this is a mistake
There is nothing wrong in wanting to have more time with your little one, but pushing his bedtime back to match your schedule could disrupt his natural sleep patterns. If he doesn’t get enough sleep or isn’t allowed to sleep when he wants, he may become restless and even lose his appetite.
Do this instead
Find opportunities to be with Baby at times that suit him, say, on weekends. Make sure you put your mobile phone and other distractions away.
You constantly compare him to other babies. You want him to be the best he can be, right?
Why this is a mistake
Of course Junior needs your encouragement, love and stimulation. But he will progress at his own pace. If you’re always comparing him with others, you may end up pushing him too hard. He’ll eventually sense your disappointment if he is not as advanced as his peers.
Do this instead
Love him for his unique traits and skills. It shouldn’t matter how he compares to others.
If you’re always comparing your baby with others, you may end up pushing him too hard
ILLUSTRATION CHENG PUAY KOON
