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My wife and I recognize that we’re on a journey in trying to become the best parents we can be. It’s not easy—it demands a lot from you physically and emotionally—but it rewards you along the way with the gift of little lives who look up to you and want to be around you. Some days feel like a constant juggling act, filled with messes, meltdowns, and endless to-do lists. But in the middle of it all, there are those genuine moments of connection that make every challenge worth it.
On that journey, we’ve learned a lot from those around us and noticed that the best parents seem to have a few things in common. These aren’t rigid rules or a one-size-fits-all approach to parenting, but rather a set of habits that create a home where kids feel loved, secure, and encouraged to grow into their best selves. Some of these came naturally to us, while others we’ve had to work on. Either way, keeping these habits in mind has helped us stay focused on what truly matters as we raise our kids.
They listen more than they lecture
Great parents understand that communication is a two-way street. Instead of constantly directing, correcting, or lecturing their kids, they make a point to listen—really listen. They put their phones down, maintain eye contact, and give their full attention when their child is speaking. They ask open-ended questions instead of jumping in with solutions right away. When a child feels heard and understood, they are far more likely to open up, seek guidance, and respect their parents’ advice. This habit helps build trust and creates a home environment where children feel safe to express their thoughts, emotions, and concerns.
They model the behavior they want to see
We’ve all heard the phrase “actions speak louder than words,” and this couldn’t be more true in parenting. Kids learn more from what their parents do than what they say. If a parent wants their child to be kind, patient, and respectful, they have to embody those traits themselves. This means saying “please” and “thank you,” handling frustrations with calmness, and treating others with fairness and empathy. Great parents recognize that their behavior is constantly being watched and absorbed, so they lead by example. They know that how they handle stress, conflict, and responsibilities sets the foundation for their child’s own habits and values.
They set clear boundaries with love
Discipline is a tricky part of parenting, but great parents have found the balance between being firm and being nurturing. They set clear expectations for behavior, follow through with consequences, and remain consistent, all while ensuring that their child feels loved and secure. They don’t rely on yelling or harsh punishment but instead focus on teaching. When rules are broken, they take the time to explain why a certain behavior is unacceptable and how their child can make better choices next time. By setting limits with empathy and fairness, they create a sense of security and help their child develop self-discipline.
They encourage independence
It’s tempting to do everything for your child, but great parents resist the urge to overprotect or micromanage. They understand that raising confident and capable kids means giving them opportunities to make decisions, solve problems, and experience both success and failure. Instead of jumping in to fix every issue, they guide their children in finding solutions on their own. Whether it’s letting a toddler struggle to put on their own shoes or allowing a teenager to manage their own homework, they provide support while still giving their child the freedom to learn and grow. This helps children build resilience and develop the life skills they’ll need to thrive as adults.
They make time for connection
Life is busy, but great parents prioritize quality time with their children. They recognize that the small moments—laughing together, sharing a meal, reading a bedtime story—are what truly build strong relationships. Even if it’s just 10 minutes of undivided attention each day, they find ways to make their child feel special, valued, and loved. They also tailor their time together based on their child’s unique interests, whether that’s playing a game, going for a walk, or simply talking about their day. By making connection a habit, great parents strengthen their bond with their children and create a foundation of trust and emotional security.
They apologize when they’re wrong
Nobody is perfect—not even parents. Great parents aren’t afraid to admit when they’ve made a mistake. Whether they snapped in frustration or made an unfair judgment, they own up to it and apologize sincerely. They don’t see an apology as a sign of weakness, but rather as an opportunity to teach their child about accountability, humility, and personal growth. This not only strengthens trust in the parent-child relationship but also helps children learn how to handle their own mistakes with grace. When children see that their parents are willing to acknowledge their faults, they understand that making mistakes is part of life—and that learning from them is what truly matters.
They let their kids be themselves
Every child is different, and great parents embrace their child’s unique personality, strengths, and quirks. Instead of forcing their kids to fit a mold or live up to unrealistic expectations, they encourage them to explore their own interests and passions. They don’t compare their child to others or pressure them to be someone they’re not. Instead, they celebrate their individuality and support them in becoming the best version of themselves. Whether their child is artistic, athletic, introverted, or outspoken, great parents nurture their growth and provide a safe space for them to thrive. They understand that confidence and happiness come from being accepted for who you truly are.
Parenting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up, learning, and growing alongside your child. By adopting these seven habits, you can build a stronger connection with your kids and set them up for a happy, healthy future.
