So, you’re going to be a parent.  We live in an era of reality TV, but that’s not a real expectation for family life.  Learn six parenting myths that can trip people up in their attempt to have a healthy family life.

Parenting myths

• Kids come first 
• Kids have equal say in the family
• Kids shouldn’t struggle 
• Kids need more toys 
• Technology helps my kids learn
• Kids don’t help with housework

Parenting truths

• The whole family’s needs should be considered and prioritized.  Kids’ needs don’t necessarily trump adults’ needs.
• Children should have a say, but parents should make the decisions
• Struggling helps children learn and builds character, as long as the task is not too hard for them to eventually accomplish
• Too many toys can reduce creativity and sharing skills and can increase the sense that things are easily disposable
• Children tend to spend too much time in front of a screen, which is a passive activity that affects brain development, and it can increase attention problems and reduce creativity
• Kids are a part of the family and can contribute to a well-functioning family life with age-appropriate chores. See tips on age-appropriate chores.