Normally, well meaning parents struggle with their children’s common behaviour problems using discipline techniques that deliver inconsistent results and fail to teach children how to learn from their mistakes. Many commonly used forms of discipline and punishment actually lead to more misbehaviour and only teach children to not get caught next time.

 Good parenting is about bringing out the very best in your children using techniques that teach them respect, responsibility and compassion.

 The key to parenting success? Start following these top 4 parenting tips below and you will actually motivate your children to want to be well behaved!

 Tip #1 – If you love your children—put yourself first

 Far too many children are living with parents who are unhappy, frazzled and stressed out. Children flourish when they are raised in a home with happy, balanced parents. The best way to give more to your children is by giving more to yourself. By doing this, you can become a valuable role model for them of a happy, healthy adult.

Tip #2 – Cherish your children.

No matter what your situation—no matter how often your children drive you crazy—know there are thousands of women in this world who would gladly trade places with you in a heartbeat. There are women who would give anything to have a child period. Strive to remember how truly fortunate you are.

Hug your children at least three times a day. Tell them often how grateful you are to have the opportunity to be their parent and to become a better woman—and mother—for it!

 Tip #3 – Teach your children to fish (rather than fish for them).

Many parents do everything for their kids. This only robs their children of the opportunity to learn self-reliance—a vital key to their self-esteem. One of the best things you can do is to help your children learn how to do for themselves.

 Tip #4 – A family that plays together stays together

Have fun—play with your children! Laughing, tickling, and playing together is the foundation of a happy home. Having fun can go a long way in providing your family with much needed quality time and in preventing much of the needless conflict and behaviors that drive you crazy. Children who experience a regular dose of quality time with their parents do not need to act out to get their attention. 

 Tip #5 – Say what you are going to do and stick to it.

Most parents unknowingly teach their children to not listen to them. If you consistently repeat yourself and then don’t follow through on what you've said, you are teaching your children to ignore you (and especially to ignore you the first time you say you're going to do something). If you are not going to do what you say your are going to do—you are basically teaching your children that your word is muck and can’t be trusted. By following through on your word consistently you will begin to pave the road that leads to your children hearing you the first time.