Parenting vision
In recent years, the Kingdom’s Taskforce has given priority to the development of a parenting vision that expresses what children need in their upbringing in order to grow up safely and healthily and to develop into adult citizens who fully participate in society. In each country, a "parenting ambassador" has taken the lead in developing a joint pedagogical vision and research material through social parenting debates with children, youth, parents, co-educators, education, youth professionals and civil society organizations. The specific approach depends on the unique circumstances of the (island) country. Unicef and the Netherlands Youth Institute (NJI) have been asked to play a supporting role.
During the parenting conference in Bonaire, six important parenting themes were identified. It was agreed to work on these six important parenting themes and to this end, each (island) country has drawn up an action plan.
The parenting themes are:
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Setting boundaries / discipline / structure;
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Love and attention;
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Communication (at all levels);
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Norms and values;
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Parent Involvement and Parent Awareness; and
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Parenting support.
Positive Parenting makes parenting easier and more fun for parent and child. Parent learns to communicate well with the child and to strengthen the relationship with the child even more. The child learns to deal with his or her emotions and to listen to what is being asked. This allows the child to develop optimally.
Children who are raised through Positive Parenting develop optimally. They feel good about themselves. They follow instructions. In addition, the chance of emotional and behavioral problems later in life is lower.
The 5 basic principles of positive parenting:
1. Provide children with a safe and stimulating environment. Children who enjoy themselves are not bored and are less likely to develop behavioral problems. When the house is securely furnished, you don't have to prohibit as much. Parents are urged to create a safe environment in which children can develop.
2. Letting children learn through positive support.
Positive attention and encouragement by giving a compliment, motivates a child to learn new things and develop. Parents learn to stop what they are doing and to take a moment even if for just a few minutes, when the child comes up to them and asks or wants to say something.
3. Use appealing discipline.
Within positive parenting, giving clear instructions and responding quickly are important when a child is not behaving well. Clear agreements and rules are essential in this regard.
4. Have realistic expectations.
Every child is unique and develops at its own pace. A child doesn't have to be perfect; every child makes mistakes and usually does not do so on purpose. And that goes just as well for parents.
5. Take care of yourself as a parent.
It's all about the right balance. As a parent, it is also important to take enough time for yourself, such as exercising or spending time with friends. Parents who feel good have more energy for their children.