Idaho CareLine: In Idaho, Dial 2-1-1 or 800-926-2588

Positive Parenting

The following are some basic suggestions to use when your baby cries:

Check to see that basic needs are met:

• Hungry;
• Too hot or too cold;
• Diapers need changing.

Offer comfort by:

• Holding and cuddling close to your chest;
• Walking or rocking;
• Softly singing or talking;
• Offering a pacifier;
• Bundling in a soft blanket without covering the face.

Change the environment by:

• Playing soft music with a gentle beat;
• Putting a toy where it can be seen;
• Going outside if weather permits.

Take a break:

• Call someone who understands like your friend, family, doctor, or counselor;
• Put your baby in a safe place such as their crib and take a break for a few minutes.

Remember, a little crying will not hurt your baby.

Appropriate Discipline Tips

Telling the difference between unacceptable behavior and normal, sometimes nerve-wracking stages in a child's development is often difficult. It is important to understand what to expect of your child.

Model Correct Behavior: Patiently show the child the "right way" to behave or do a chore.

Redirect Behavior: Substitute a positive behavior for one that's a problem; drawing on walls — have paper available; throwing sand — use a ball for throwing; trouble taking turns — add another toy or use a timer to mark each turn.

Ignore Annoying Behavior When Possible: Ignore behavior that will not harm your child or others — bad habits, whining, bad language, and tantrums. It's hard to do nothing; however, this lack of attention takes away the audience your child is seeking.

Time Out: Use time out to respond to harmful behavior such as hitting or intentional destruction:

• Have the child sit in boring place without interaction;
• Explain what she/he did wrong and what the proper behavior is;
• Keep time out to one minute for every year of age;
• When time out is over and the child is calm, be positive and encouraging about correct behavior.

Helping Parents Help Themselves

There are many groups and organizations that offer free or low-cost parenting seminars or courses to help parents. Parenting classes can help parents:

• Learn child-raising and discipline techniques and skills;
• Find ways to encourage learning and growth in children;
• Meet other parents to discuss similar problems and concerns; and
• Find information about where to call if you feel out of control.

Positive Parenting offers a link to local parenting classes in Idaho, as well as articles on parenting in general. Call the Idaho CareLine at 2-1-1 or 1-800-926-2588 or 1-208-332-7205 (TDD) for listings of parenting classes throughout the state, or contact your local hospital or health care provider for information about classes near you.

Parents Encouraging Parents (PEP) FREE Online Parenting Classes: You can hear the lectures, ask questions, and participate in the discussion, all from home! All you need is a computer with speaker. It's easy and fun! These classes are designed for caring parents who want to learn all they can to promote the heath and happiness of their families.