Here at The Asian Parent, we've produced and shared numerous articles that can help you to raise better kids. We've also composed countless articles that can help improve your marriage or build a strong foundation as a couple.
It never really occurred to me that a lot of the information applied to parenting and marriage is one and the same. In a lot of ways, there are techniques and ways to approach a marriage or relationship that are similar to rearing good, responsible children.
That's why we took the time to analyze what techniques you use as a parent, that can be directly applied to your relationship. It sounds a bit crazy, but you'd be surprised just how many of these strategies work with your kids and your partner!
Check out our list and let us know what you think:
1. Don't be afraid to show you love
Surely, you hug and kiss your kids on a daily basis. Well, as you can imagine, love and affection is something that your spouse loves too. Make sure that you're saying "I love you" to your partner regularly, and never be afraid to show random signs of affection!
2. Praise them, tell them they're special
When you give your kids positive feedback, or you tell them they're doing a good job, you're building up their self-esteem. Your partner needs to have a strong dose of reassurance also! Be sure to congratulate them on their accomplishments, and successes and let them know that they're special.
3. Use "6-inch voices", communicate calmly and clearly
Screaming at your kids isn't necessarily effective. You don;t need to shout to articulate a point, or reprimand them. The same can be said for your husband or wife. Use your 6-inch voice, and talk calmly and quietly to get your point across. You can communicate much more effectively this way. After all, cooler heads prevail.
4. Respect their space
As a parent, you can understand that when your child is angry or upset, sometimes they just need time to cool off and vent. That's why lots of parents let their kids have some space when they're angry. Then, they can talk to their kids once they've calmed down. Your husband or wife may not be kicking and screaming like your little ones, but that doesn't mean that they don't also require a little space to cool off and gather their thoughts. And if they don't want to take a moment to relax and act their age, give them a nice "timeout" by walking away to let them know you won't talk to them until they've cooled down.
5. Make household duties fun
There's no doubt about it, chores are not very fun. They have to completed, though, so why not make the most of them? Try implementing a system that makes daily chores and household duties fun. Similar to a rewards system for your kids. Instead of buying your kids a new toy if they do their monthly chores, tell your husband or wife you'll treat them to fancy dinner if they handle the laundry for the week. That should spice things up!
READ: 7 Things good husbands do for their wives
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