10 Golden Rules of Positive Parenting

1. Understand Your Child's Behavior

When you empathize with why your child is behaving as he is, you'll be better able to respond appropriately and effectively. Dr. Glasser suggests stocking up on child development books and enrolling in a parenting class.

2. Be Proactive

Find opportunities to prevent misbehavior. For example, if your toddler typically has a tantrum when he's overtired or hungry, be sure to provide rest time and healthy snacks. Avoiding situations that trigger misbehavior is half the battle.

3. Discipline with Love

Children feel safe and secure when parents set clearly defined limits for behavior. The key for positive parenting is to set these limits with love and respect, and then enforce them consistently and with your child's best interests in mind. Tell your child about the rules and the consequences in advance, and then follow through when necessary.

4. Laugh When You Can

... and have fun together as often as possible. Make time daily to enjoy your children's company and share in their lives. Little moments spent playing a game or baking cookies can build relationships and are the times that you—and your children—will remember most.

5. Encourage Your Children's Efforts

It's easy to focus on misbehavior but equally as important to pay attention to positive behavior. Offer encouragement when your children take turns or treat others kindly. Catch them being good as often as you can.