There’s a world of difference between being a parent and being a really good parent.
This difference often boils down to routine. A good parent may ensure their child is fed, bathed, and tucked into bed each night. But a really good parent? They do a bit more at the end of each day.
Being a really good parent means having nightly rituals that encourage growth, connection, and reflection in your child. And the best part? It doesn’t require grand gestures or extravagant efforts.
In this article, I’ll share with you 8 things that a really good parent does at the end of each day. Trust me, they might seem simple, but they can make a big difference in your child’s life. Let’s dive in!
1) Reflects on the day
Being a really good parent is not just about going through the motions of daily tasks.
Reflection is a powerful tool. It helps us to understand our actions, our children’s behavior, and the dynamics of our family.
Every night, a really good parent takes a moment to reflect on the day – the highs, the lows, and everything in between. This doesn’t have to be a lengthy process. Even a few minutes of quiet contemplation can make a world of difference.
Not only does this help in understanding your child better, but it also contributes to your personal growth as a parent. You’d be surprised how beneficial this simple act can be in fostering a positive and enriching environment for your child.
2) Reads a bedtime story
A key part of my nightly routine with my kids is reading a bedtime story.
There’s something magical about winding down the day with a good book. It’s a moment of quiet connection, an escape into another world, and a great way to foster a love of reading in your child.
I remember one particular night when my daughter was feeling anxious about starting a new school. We chose to read “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn, a story about a little raccoon facing the same fears.
As we turned the pages together, I could see her anxiety melting away. It opened a space for us to have a conversation about her fears and reassure her that it was okay to be nervous.
Reading a bedtime story is more than just a nice end-of-day ritual. It’s an opportunity to connect with your child, tackle difficult topics, and instill values. It’s one of those simple acts that make me feel like I’m doing alright as a parent.
3) Expresses gratitude
Gratitude is a powerful emotion. Studies have shown that expressing gratitude can improve mental health, reduce stress, and even enhance sleep quality.
So it’s no surprise that a really good parent incorporates this practice into their daily routine. Every night before bed, they take a moment to express gratitude with their child. This could be in the form of a simple discussion about the best parts of the day, or a more formal gratitude journal.
This not only helps to end the day on a positive note but also teaches children the value of appreciation. It’s a simple act with profound effects on both parent and child.
4) Plans for tomorrow
Being a really good parent is also about planning for the day ahead.
Each night, a proactive parent takes a moment to think about the next day. They consider any upcoming appointments, tasks, or special events. They might also think about potential challenges and how to navigate them.
This isn’t about micromanaging every moment. Rather, it’s creating a sense of preparedness and order. When you have an idea of what to expect, it’s easier to handle whatever the day brings.
For your child, this can also bring a sense of security and predictability, which is crucial for their development. So take a few minutes each night to plan for tomorrow – it’s time well spent.
5) Connects with their child
At the end of the day, when the hustle and bustle is winding down, a really good parent makes a point to connect with their child. This could be through a cuddle, a chat about their day, or even a shared joke.
Connection is key in building strong relationships and fostering emotional security in children. It’s during these quiet moments that children often open up about their feelings, thoughts, and ideas.
Furthermore, this connection time helps children to feel valued and heard. So no matter how busy the day has been, a really good parent always finds time to connect with their child before the day ends.
6) Says “I love you”
Three simple words, but they carry so much weight. “I love you” is a phrase that a really good parent never forgets to say at the end of the day.
These words offer reassurance, comfort, and a sense of belonging to a child. They serve as a gentle reminder that no matter what happened during the day – whether it was filled with laughter or tantrums, achievements or setbacks – their parent’s love for them remains constant.
Saying “I love you” is about building a foundation of trust and unconditional love in your child’s life. So before tucking your little one in for the night, remember to whisper those three powerful words. They might just be the best part of their day.
7) Takes care of themselves
Parenting is a job that never truly ends. It’s easy to lose yourself in the midst of the endless tasks, responsibilities, and needs of your child. But here’s something I’ve learned over the years: self-care isn’t selfish.
At the end of each day, a really good parent takes a moment for themselves. This could be a quiet cup of tea after the kids are in bed, a few pages of a book, or even just a few minutes of silence.
This small act of self-care recharges you, allowing you to be the best parent you can be. It’s not always easy to find this time, trust me, I know. But it’s crucial, not just for your wellbeing but for your ability to care for your child too.
8) Ensures a consistent bedtime
A really good parent knows the importance of a consistent bedtime to create a stable, predictable environment that helps them feel safe and secure.
A consistent bedtime routine can make the transition from wakefulness to sleep smoother for your child. It also sets clear expectations and boundaries, which can be very reassuring for children.
So whether it’s a bath, a story, or a favorite lullaby, make sure to keep it consistent. This routine may seem simple, but it can do wonders for your child’s sleep habits and overall wellbeing.
Final thoughts: The essence of parenting
The profound journey of parenting weaves itself into the fabric of our lives, shaping the contours of our experiences and emotions.
At the heart of it, being a really good parent isn’t defined by grand gestures or monumental achievements.
These acts may seem simple in isolation but together, they add up to something far greater. They lay down a foundation of love, security, and understanding that your child carries with them into their world.
So as you tuck your child in tonight with a smile on your face, know that your actions are nurturing their growth and shaping their future. It’s these small moments that make all the difference – because in the end, that’s what being a really good parent is all about!