Acting like a doormat

Running around after your children teaches them disrespect, intolerance, and laziness. Providing no consequences for bad behavior teaches them that you don't care so they won't either.

* Give your children strength and stability to look up to.

* Display behavior that you want them to emulate.

* Let them learn by their actions.

Treat your children as the intelligent beings they are and allow them the opportunities to grow and learn for themselves. If doormat behavior is your way of doing things, take the time to question why this is and seek help to amend your ways for your family's sake.

Unrealistic Expectations

This is a tough one and it requires thoughtful perusal and open reflection to establish whether our expectations are realistic. Many parents err on either side - some have very low expectations of their children and so inhibit their natural growth, while others are so unrealistic that their children cave in under the pressure.

It's a good idea to have regular conversations with other parents to ascertain whether your expectations are age appropriate. Make sure your expectations match your child's emotional development.

Don't despair if you see yourself in some of these parenting mistakes. They can always be rectified and you can always make choices around your own behavior. Never be ashamed of saying sorry to your children - or admitting your mistakes to them.

Your children can learn some wonderful ways of coping by watching the steps you take to repair some of your parenting mistakes.

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