Science of Parenting: Try unconventional parenting this year

Bedtime is the only chance some parents get to relax before a new day begins. However, just as children are snuggled into bed, they realise that they need a glass of water. Then, of course, they will need to do a million other things that don’t include sleeping. End this vicious cycle by giving them one “get-out-of-bed-free” card. By giving them the option to get out of bed, but only once, they will be forced to think about whether they really want to use up their one chance to get out of bed for the night.

The “Free Range Kids” movement is a relatively new way of looking at parenting. Basically, by giving your kids as much space as you’re comfortable with to roam free, you make your life easier and help them to build their confidence. As always, make sure there are minimal risks involved and only allow them to wander away if you are comfortable.

In the world of mom-shaming for technology overuse, this seems like the most unconventional advice yet. The idea behind unlimited screen time is that your children will eventually tire of using their tablets and television and limit themselves out of boredom. Even if this plan doesn’t work out, it’s easy to put limits back on after giving it a good try.

Getting rid of some of your child’s toys may seem like a punishment, but it is a great parenting tip to de-clutter and spark their imagination. Donate toys that don’t get a lot of use and cut back to about ten toys per child. This will drastically cut down your cleaning time and you’ll be surprised by how little your kids will miss them.

Traditionally, parents set up a gate to block off the kitchen as they prepare meals. While this may seem like the easiest way to get dinner on the table, having your little one help can be much less stressful for them and rewarding in the long run. Set them up their own space to mix ingredients, chop soft food with a butter knife, and transfer items from mixing bowls and pans. It will keep them occupied and give them confidence in the kitchen later in life.

Most kids aren’t big on eating the healthy food they need to grow strong. Make vegetables more appealing by sprinkling edible glitter on them. It will be like fairy dust for their taste buds! Does your little one hate drink their milk? Drop a candy-coated chocolate in the glass. It will change the colour of the milk and at the end, they get to eat the chocolate!

There is a not-so-new idea going around called baby led weaning. Basically, it means skipping the traditional purees and letting your child eat what you eat, starting with finger-foods. After reading up on this, it’s worth a try!

Yes, you read that right. And this tip may warrant a chat with your child’s teacher but new research from Ozicare indicates that less homework might be the better option when it comes to academic success. Statistics from around the world show that the countries with the least amount of homework per week, tend to perform better academically.