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When we think of parenting a child and helping them develop at a healthy rate, we tend to think of the most obvious options - let them be creative, let them explore, let them learn certain lessons on their own. In some cases, this will involve risk. We know that a younger child might fall and become injured on a bicycle, but that risk is worth letting them feel a sense of autonomy, of learning this vital skill, of feeling confident and mobile, or playing with their friends.

But of course, it’s also true that limitations can help a child’s healthy development, also. Sometimes, it’s the no-go zones that help a child avoid toxic influences and move forward with the right perspective on the world. Sometimes, that means seeming like “the bad guy” and dealing with the odd temper tantrum. However, as any parent knows, this is sometimes much more important than letting your child have their way.

With that in mind, you might consider some of the following advice:

Curate Their Suitable Friends

The friends your child spends time with really will influence their beliefs, behaviors, and growth. Some parents even joke that school is the place you send your child to have them raised by other children. That said, you can still pay close attention to their social circle and gently steer them towards positive friends. Kids with good role models as friends are more likely to develop healthy habits, emotional maturity, and decent principles, on top of your guidance of course. A good way is to let nice children with good families play at your house, or curate the list for the birthday parties you follow.

Prevent Access To Any Mature Media, Despite What Other Parents Do

With so much content readily available these days (online and physical), it's easy for kids to stumble across mature or inappropriate media. Sure, other parents can be more permissive, but you should set firm rules about what your child can view or play. Thankfully, age ratings are already set for you, and internet filters for sites like YouTub can help. Remember, unrestricted access to violent, sexual or harmful content at a young age can warp their innocence and perception of the world. It’s a big and concerning world out there, even for adults, and so be very attentive to what they consume of it.

Adequate Punishment & Boundry-Setting

No parent truly enjoys saying “no,” but it’s often more important than providing permission. While it's tough to enforce such rules, you can explain the purpose behind them and follow through each time they're broken. You can’t be 100% consistent forever, no one ever is, but clear reasoning will be helpful. This shows kids that actions have real impacts, and they need to respect your authority. However, make sure any punishments fit the offence and avoid harsh disciplinary methods that could damage your relationship with them. It’s a balance, but both parents have to work together on this. A “fun parent” and “disciplined parent” just teaches a child to play you off one another.

WIth this advice, you’re certain to enjoy healthy child’s development.