Many parents only learn to be parents by actually doing it. A variety of resources are available to improve being a parent skills, but the most important thing is common sense. The equation for raising a child success is “information + intuition.”

If you are expecting, don’t blow two months’ salary on nursery equipment. Cribs, blankets, changing tables, and items of this matter, can be purchased for a whole lot cheaper at department stores, like Walmart, while also providing high quality. Many times, friends and family members have nursery gear that they no longer use, that they might be willing to lend or give to you.

All you need is a clear kitchen counter and a rolled-up towel. Put the towel on the counter and put your child on it so that his head is under the sink faucet. Then turn on the faucet to run water over his hair. This can help many toddlers who fear having water poured on their head or don’t like their head being dunked in the water.

If you’re traveling with your little one, maintain the mealtime and bedtime routines that you do at home. Travel takes its toll on young children, particularly infants. Upholding bedtime rituals can make the experience far more pleasant for yourself and your child.

You have to remember that every child is unique. If a technique worked to help one child, don’t expect it to work for all children. You may have to find different ways to punish the child, and come up with new reward systems. You have to remember all the techniques you have used before.

Using rules that detail exactly what is expected can help to cut back on the amount of fighting that goes on and ultimately help your children live together more harmoniously. Telling your children “hands are for helping and not hurting” is better than just saying “don’t hit” because it gives them an example of what to do instead of just telling them what NOT to do.

After reading this article, hopefully you see that you can take more initiative in being a parent than just dealing with new issues intuitively. Face the challenge of being a parent with common sense and as much information as you can find.