The 3 Simple Keys That Help You Become the Better Parent.

The 3 Simple Keys That Help You Become the Better Parent

Parenting can feel overwhelming at times. Between work, school, relationships, and the never-ending list of responsibilities, it’s easy to lose sight of what matters most—our connection with our children. And in those messy, emotional moments, we often just want to know how to get back on track.

That’s where the Three Better Parent Keys come in. These are not lofty ideals or complicated strategies. They’re grounded, practical, and most importantly—they work. They are the foundation for creating real, lasting change in your home, not just in your child’s behaviour, but in your relationship with them.

Let’s break them down.

1. What we pay attention to, we see more of.

This first key is deceptively simple but deeply powerful. Children crave our attention—it’s one of their biggest motivators. But too often, we find ourselves focusing on what’s going wrong: the backchat, the mess, the delays. The irony? By giving all our energy to those moments, we unknowingly reinforce them.

Instead, try catching your child doing something right—no matter how small. Acknowledge it. “I saw how gently you spoke to your brother just then,” or “Thank you for putting your shoes away without being asked.” These small recognitions build connection, self-worth, and a desire to repeat that behaviour.

2. Effective instructions help children cooperate.

Children aren’t born knowing what we expect—they learn through clear, calm, and specific communication. When we bark vague commands like “Stop it!” or “Behave!”, they’re left unsure of what to do instead. The result? Frustration on both sides.

Better Parents pause, get down to their child’s level, and give clear, kind directions. “Please put your blocks in the box now,” or “It’s time to wash hands before dinner.” We’re not just giving orders—we’re teaching responsibility, modelling respect, and setting the stage for cooperation.

3. Better Parents stay calm.

This is the heart of it all. Parenting asks so much of us, and it’s easy to get pulled into the emotional chaos of a tantrum or an argument. But when we stay calm, we anchor our children. We show them what it looks like to regulate big feelings.

Of course, staying calm doesn’t mean being perfect. It means pausing before reacting. Breathing before responding. It means modelling the emotional regulation we want to see in them. And yes, it means caring for ourselves too—because we cannot be calm if we are depleted.

When we practice these three keys consistently, something shifts. We stop reacting and start responding. We move from chaos to connection. From yelling to understanding. From power struggles to peaceful solutions.

And that’s what it means to be the Better Parent—not perfect, but intentional. Not always calm, but committed to trying again. Not a guru, just a guide.

The Better Parent Keys are not just tools for managing behaviour—they’re the gateway to deeper connection, mutual respect, and a more joyful family life. If you’re ready to dive deeper, head over to the Better Parent Academy. There’s so much more waiting for you there.

You’ve got this. I wish you clarity, calm, and joy in your parenting journey.