There are many books about parenting and raising kids. However, not all of them offer the same advice. And there's no perfect manual to help us avoid every mistake or every pitfall. To be honest, making mistakes is the best way to learn. And that goes for both the parent and the child. No one is perfect. And making a family is definitely hard work.
One of the best ways to be a good parent is to try to avoid common mistakes, especially regarding discipline. From the toddler years through the teenage years, kids need boundaries. They also need consistency. Setting up rules regarding what is expected from them is a step in the right direction. But again, let them make their own mistakes sometimes. This will teach them about using judgement. Being fair regarding punishments is another important topic that you will no doubt be tested on through the years. Do your best to keep a steady head - and sooner or later you'll look back through those times and marvel - and maybe even laugh.
One of the biggest mistakes new parents make is panicking over nothing. Remember, every child is different. They all mature at their own pace. Some talk and walk earlier than others do. Some of them are very sociable, others are very shy. Don't fret about it by comparing your child with others. As for school work and sports activities, remember we all have strengths and weaknesses. Some kids are more interested in artistic endeavors, others will be raring to get on the basketball court or the football field.
Raising a family can be a truly beautiful and enlightening experience. And most parents find that their dreams and hopes for their offspring evolve as they grow. However, the main goal of most parents is to raise happy, healthy, and well-adjusted kids - who will hopefully some day bless them with grandchildren!