Let 2014 be the year to power up your parenting!

With New Year’s Eve came and gone, I’m sure most of you have already worked on a list of goals for your New Year resolution. As parents, we play an important role in shaping the way our children think and act now and the type of person they will become in the future. The following are some goals to help kick start 2014 to become a memorable year for you and your family.

1. Learn to be more patient
   I understand that being patient when your kid is acting like a hyperactive brat is no easy task. But by taking the time to listen to their needs and what they’re trying to tell us, it shows our children that we care about them. The next time you find yourself about to get heated over spilled milk, take a deep breath and calmly count to ten. Over time, you’ll find that patience will come easily for you!

2. Start a new family tradition
   Growing up with fond memories of key childhood moments are what make us bond better as a family. Try to think of all the family traditions that you value growing up as a kid and make this the year to start new family tradition! If your kid enjoy cooking, take kids cooking lessons and classes together and add what they learn to the family recipes. For the more adventurous types, perhaps this is the year to start the yearly holiday camping trip tradition.
    
3. Encourage creativity
   Creative arts activities have long been established as having long-term benefits for kids that includes building critical thinking skills, strengthening problem-solving abilities, stimulating imagination and developing strong communication skills for later on. Kids naturally have curious minds so by simply giving them some paper and crayons, it’ll be enough to get their imagination going. If your child has started developing interests for art or music, perhaps it’s time to give them a go this year!
    
4. Travel & learn together
   While our kids are getting the education they need at school, sometimes the best way to learn is to get out into the world and experience things for yourself. Family travel is not only good for family bonding, it is also a great way for the whole family to experience new cultures for the first time together. Take the opportunity to teach your kids to learn and appreciate other cultures and nurture a love for travel and adventure from a young age. 
Overseas trips can be expensive - especially when you’re traveling as a family! The good news is that even simple day trips to the local zoos, aquariums or observatories will provide countless benefits and fun for your kids
    
5. More ‘face-time’ and less ‘screen time’
   If television and Playstation addiction is an issue in your household, 2014 is the year to place strict time limits on ‘screen time’ and stick to it! Teach your kids how to control and keep a balance indoor vs. outdoor lifestyle. Encourage them to take up a fun and unique outdoor activities such as surfing , Wing Chun , Canoeing ......
    
6. Contribute back to the community
   It is important to teach your kids from a young age how to contribute back to the community (even in small ways) and help those in needs. Joining community groups such as Surf Life Saving or Youth Associations is a great way to learn important life skills that benefit others as well.
    
7. Have more ‘me time’ and be good to yourself
   Treat yourself to a hot bath after work or an extra slice of cake for dessert. If you’re constantly exhausted and grumpy, you’re no good to your family. If you want to be the parent you want to be in the New Year, make sure you take time out to refresh your mind and soul.

Head over to our kids activities directory for more inspirational kids activities that your kids would love to do in the New Year.