Division of Violence Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Parents help their kids form healthy relationships that last a lifetime. Kids whose parents monitor their behavior and have consistent rules are more likely to have healthy and close relationships with their peers, be more engaged in school, have higher self-esteem, and are less likely to bully others. The earlier parents begin using positive parenting skills, the better. Positive parenting practices, like consistent expectations and good parent-child communication, lead to better outcomes for children throughout their lives. It’s important to remember that preventing problem behavior in your toddlers and preschoolers is one of the best ways to decrease chances that your child will be involved in violence and bullying in elementary school and beyond.
Essentials for Parenting Toddlers and Preschoolers is a free, online resource developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Designed for parents of toddlers and preschoolers, Essentials for Parenting addresses common parenting challenges, like tantrums and whining. The purpose of the resource is to provide as much information as possible on things parents can do to build a positive, healthy relationship using activities and videos that model what to do during real-life parenting challenges. Skills focus on encouraging good behavior and decreasing misbehavior using proven strategies like positive communication, structure and rules, clear directions, and consistent discipline and consequences. Although the examples used within Essentials for Parenting Toddlers and Preschoolers are specific for parents of toddlers and preschoolers, the general skills and tips can be applied to children of all ages.