10 Life-changing parenting tips and tricks 

If you’re reading this, I know you’re a caring parent—otherwise, you wouldn’t be actively looking for ways to level up your parenting journey. Just like you, I love researching parenting tips and tricks and can easily spend hours sifting through expert advice.

This post is all about life changing parenting tips and tricks

Luckily for you, my passion is converting this research into small, actionable steps that we can all use in our day-to-day lives. I enjoy finding research-backed parenting hacks that not only benefit our children’s development and well-being but also make our parenting journey smoother, happier, and more mindful.

I only listen to experts who have genuine care and empathy towards parents and children, and I have tried tested, and seen the results of these tips with my children who are two of the most incredible people I have ever known. 

I’m a parent who messes up, I’m a parent who has slipped into old ways that don’t work, and I’m a parent who feels deeply in everything I am that children and parents deserve a shame-free, respectful, supportive, and connected environment. And I’m a parent who cares deeply for other parents and children, just like you.

We are all in this together—shaming children doesn’t work, and shaming parents doesn’t work either. What does work is understanding, healing, guidance, and offering compassionate support. When we approach parenting and childhood challenges with empathy, we create spaces for growth, connection, and positive change.

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1. Slow down

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s hard not to feel rushed. Just step outside, and you’ll see people hurrying from place to place. On the road, drivers often get frustrated if you’re not moving as quickly as they want. How does that make you feel? Now, think about how you feel when someone takes the time to sit down, listen, and truly engage with you—no rush, no pressure. It’s a completely different experience, right? Everywhere you turn, there’s pressure to reach the next milestone with your child, to move on to the next thing. But what if I told you the real magic is in embracing the present moment?

Give me examples:

• Create routines you genuinely enjoy. Whether it’s a morning ritual or bedtime routine, find moments that allow you to be fully present.

• Share simple, meaningful activities. Let your toddler brush your hair while you brush theirs—it’s a sweet, shared moment that fosters connection.

• Make daily tasks enjoyable. Turn brushing teeth with your older children into a fun activity you do together. It not only makes the task more enjoyable but also creates a bond.

• Establish cozy nighttime routines. Read a favorite book, share stories from your day, or simply snuggle before bed. These routines can become cherished memories.

• Give yourself plenty of time. Allow extra time for getting places so you’re not rushing. This helps reduce stress and gives you the space to be present with your child.

2. Learn about your needs

This was a challenging lesson for me, and I think it’s why so many parents experience burnout. We’re often told to just keep going, pushing ourselves to the limit because that’s what we’re “supposed” to do. Well, that’s nonsense. What you really need to do is listen to your own body, pay attention to what it’s telling you, and honor those signals. When you take care of your needs, not only do you benefit, but everyone around you does too.

Give me examples:

• Assess your rest requirements. How much sleep or downtime do you truly need to feel recharged? Listen to your body and make rest a priority.

• Explore different ways to process emotions. Find methods that work for you to handle feelings like sadness, anger, or jealousy. Whether it’s journaling, talking to a friend, or engaging in a creative outlet, discover what helps you process and release these emotions.

• Identify what makes you feel connected to yourself. What activities or practices help you feel grounded and in tune with who you are? This might be meditation, exercise, or simply spending quiet time alone.

• Recognize the type of people who uplift you. Surround yourself with individuals who bring positivity into your life and make you feel good about yourself. Understanding the types of relationships that nourish you can make a big difference in your overall well-being.

3. Make your environment work for you (not the other way around)

4. Connection over compliance

It’s ironic that we’re often taught children should “just do as they’re told,” when in reality, this isn’t something we need to force. Why? Because children naturally want to listen to our guidance when they feel connected to us. When they seem not to be listening, it’s often a sign that they feel disconnected. Think about a boss who demands that you follow orders—does that make you want to listen? Now, imagine a boss who respects you, takes the time to understand your individual needs, and fosters a sense of teamwork. You’re much more likely to listen to them, right?

Give me examples:

• Reframe demands into invitations. Instead of saying, “Go brush your teeth,” try, “Hey, let’s go brush our teeth together and chat about [insert their interest].”

• Make questions open and inviting. Instead of directly asking, “What happened at school today?” try saying, “I wonder if something funny or silly happened at school today.”

• Show empathy and understanding. Acknowledge their feelings, like saying, “I know washing dishes is super boring, but maybe you could put on your favorite music while you do it.”

• Incorporate play and imagination. Instead of forcing tasks, make them fun, like saying, “Can you stomp like a huge dinosaur to the door once we put your shoes on?”

5. Compliment who they truly are

If we want our children to be truly successful, we must let go of society’s narrow definitions of success and instead nurture what makes our children uniquely themselves. Each child is an individual with their own distinct qualities, and it’s our privilege to discover and celebrate their unique gifts. Their true power lies not in striving to be the best according to someone else’s standards or seeking approval from others, but in being seen, understood, and valued for who they authentically are.

Give me examples:

• “I love how you see the world.” This acknowledges their unique perspective and encourages them to continue thinking independently.

• “Your thoughts on that are so interesting.” This shows that you value their ideas and reinforces their confidence in expressing themselves.

• “Your passion for that subject is beautiful.” This lets them know that their enthusiasm is recognized and appreciated, encouraging them to pursue what they love.

6. Support & Respect their choices

When I asked my 12-year-old son what one thing parents could do to be great, he said, “Support their choices.” Hearing this, I couldn’t help but smile with pride, and I quickly ran to jot it down. We empower our children when we truly listen to them. By doing so, we show them that their voice matters and teach them how to trust their inner guidance. Throughout their lives, they’ll encounter people who might try to convince them that they don’t have choices, so it’s crucial that we instill in them the belief that they always do. They should know they can walk away from situations that don’t feel right, follow their passions, and stand up for themselves. As long as we are there to keep them safe and offer guidance when needed, they should be encouraged to make their own choices whenever it’s safe to do so.

Give me examples:

• Let them choose their hobbies. Allow your child to pursue interests that genuinely excite them, rather than pushing them into activities you think are best.

• Respect their sense of safety. Never force them to stay with people or in situations where they don’t feel comfortable or safe.

• Encourage personal expression. Let them choose their clothes and hairstyles, embracing their individuality and self-expression.

• Trust their intuition about their body. Allow them to decide when they’re full and how much they want to eat, fostering a healthy relationship with food.

7. Find things you enjoy doing with them

Playing with our children offers countless benefits, from boosting their self-esteem and creativity to strengthening our connection and supporting their social-emotional development. But let’s be honest—sometimes, as parents, playing can feel boring or exhausting. I completely understand. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for ways to make it more enjoyable for both of us.

Give me examples:

• Choose books that are fun for everyone. Opt for interactive or funny books that you’ll enjoy reading as much as they do.

• Reconnect with your own childhood interests. Think about what you loved as a child—whether it was Play-Doh, painting, or building with Lego/Duplo—and share those activities with your child.

• Take on challenges together. Engage in activities like building a den or creating the tallest tower—these challenges can be fun and rewarding for both of you.

• Work on a project together. Collect nature items during a walk or start a simple art project—these shared experiences can create lasting memories.

8. Don’t be afraid to advocate for them

It’s easy to feel powerless when faced with the authority of schools, workplaces, and other institutions. However, when you believe in your ability to advocate for your child, you command respect—not just for yourself, but for your child as well. This advocacy sends a powerful message to your child about their worth and teaches them that their voice matters. Moreover, by standing up for your child, you inspire others to do the same, contributing to a larger movement that empowers children and gives them a voice in a world that often overlooks them.

Give me examples:

• Communicate politely but directly. When discussing your child’s needs with other adults, be clear and assertive while maintaining respect. This ensures that your concerns are taken seriously and your child’s needs are met.

• Trust your instincts. Don’t ignore your gut feelings just to go with the flow or fit in. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. Your intuition is a powerful tool in ensuring your child’s well-being.

• Model self-advocacy for your child. Show them how to express their needs and stand up for themselves in a respectful and effective manner. This not only benefits them now but equips them with the confidence and skills they’ll need throughout their lives.

• Collaborate with others. Work together with teachers, coaches, and other parents to create a supportive network that advocates for the best interests of all children, not just your own.

9. Allow ALL emotions (that includes yours)

The key to creating a happy home lies in understanding that your primary responsibility is to learn how to feel and regulate your own emotions. Instead of pushing emotions away, suppressing them, or denying their existence, we need to feel and acknowledge them. Then, we can take steps that are healthy and beneficial to improve our mood. When we model this emotional awareness, those around us, including our children, learn to do the same. This way, when our children experience big emotions, we can share our calm with them. Remember, all of our emotions are valid, and all of our children’s emotions are valid too.

Give me examples:

• Accept and allow space for all emotions. When emotions are felt and validated, they can be processed and released more easily.

• Use moments of loss as teaching opportunities. If your child is crying over a lost toy, see it as a chance to help them cope with the feeling of loss and to show them that it’s okay to grieve.

• Validate and guide through anger. When your child is feeling angry, use the moment to acknowledge their feelings and demonstrate healthy ways to release and manage anger.

• Address jealousy with love. If your child feels jealous of another, take it as a sign that they need extra attention and affection. Fill up their “cup” with love and reassurance.

10. Boundaries and compassion go hand in hand

Allowing emotions doesn’t mean we condone behaviors that can harm ourselves or others. It’s important to understand that boundaries and compassion go hand in hand, yet this balance is often misunderstood or overlooked. Having boundaries doesn’t equate to being harsh or unfeeling, and showing compassion doesn’t mean being a pushover. The key is to respect both other people’s emotions and needs while also honoring our own.

When you demonstrate compassion while maintaining boundaries, you teach your children how to cope with emotions like disappointment and frustration. This approach also helps them validate their feelings while respecting others’ boundaries. Ultimately, it equips them with the skills to establish their own boundaries, making them less likely to succumb to peer pressure or manipulation.

Give me examples:

• Acknowledge their feelings: “I know you’re upset that it’s time to turn off the TV. I’d feel the same way if I were enjoying a show. How about we find something fun to play with together instead?”

• Show understanding while enforcing boundaries: “I can see that putting your shoes on feels boring right now. I want you to know that it’s my job to keep you safe because I love you so much.”

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This post was all about life changing parenting tips and tricks