How to raise happy kids

I have been a mom for 9 years and I think that qualifies me as an expert who can give advice. At least in regards to kids up to the age of 9. If you have kids older than that, you may want to check back with me in a few years.

For now, I'd like to share a few secrets on how to keep your kids happy. I understand every family is different. What works for me may not work for you. I'll try to keep this list general so you can tweak it to fit your needs.


1. Reward your children for their good behavior. It will encourage them to maintain that positive behavior. A possible reward could be taking your children shopping so they can pick out a special treat. If this is the route you choose, be prepared for a long and drawn out experience. But know that your children will smile at the end.


2. Share your guilty pleasure, without letting your children know you are sharing. For example, buy 2 boxes of Cadbury Eggs and hide one (that one is for you). Your child will be thrilled at the fact that you bought them their very own box of Eggs!


3. Teach your children, answer their questions, and more importantly, give them the power of books. Just as a heads up, letting them stay up to 11pm on a school night reading will not result in a happy child the following day.


4. Don't be afraid to be silly and have fun with them. Need some ideas? How about hiding fake bugs in their underwear drawer! When they ask who did it, blame your spouse. Then pull your child aside and tell them to hide said bug in your spouse's drink. That is sure to make everyone laugh. Well, maybe not your spouse.



5. It might be every mom's worst nightmare, but don't be afraid to build Legos with your child. I don't care if there are 62 or 662 pieces in the box. Build! Just keep it to yourself if you "accidentally" vacuum up a bunch of Legos the following day.


6. Finally, hug and kiss your babies like there's no tomorrow. Blowing kisses are perfectly acceptable during the winter months when they bring home all that nastiness from school.



Until next time....

4 comments:

Kmama said...

LOL at blowing kisses to your child during the winter. That's some great advice right there!!

Liz said...

That's a great way to not feel bad about having a treat yourself - just buy extra to give some to the kids!

Claremont First Ward said...

What a wonderful, wonderful list!

Anonymous said...

Great advice! My kids love books. I just got 25 of them at a library used book sale for $9 and they are in heaven!