Parenting comes in different forms, and though there is no perfect parent, parents still try to fit into these various forms. Like the gods with differences faces, parents can be said to share the same powers. They have the powers to change from being a parent to being a friend to being a companion, and most times, to be different shades of a parent. Might be the friendly parent today, then the strict parent setting ground rules tomorrow. But no matter the power to change faces a parent possesses, the face that should remain constant is the face of the supportive parent. And here are some tips on how to be a supportive parent.

Acknowledge their achievements: There are times when all we need is encouragement from the people that matter most to us. In this case, parents are the most important people in their children’s lives, and that means words or actions from parents towards the children will always have an effect, be it a positive or an adverse effect. For this reason, parents should always try to encourage their children by their words and actions. In furtherance, no matter how little the achievement our children might have attained, parents should always endeavor to recognize and appreciate them.

Respect their friends: Relationships with the outside world is almost as important as the in-house relationship. Because in all sincerity, we all do need friends. And the friends we keep are the definition of who we are thus backed up by the saying, “show me your friend, and I will tell you who you are.” Though parents have the right to know and access the friends their children keep, parents should try to do all these with respect. Respecting the friends of your kids means respecting the children’s choices, and this can mean a lot to them.

Make their concerns yours: Supportive parents know or at least try to know their kids’ concerns, and these concerns are made the parents’ concerns. In doing so, the parents share the children’s worries and find the best means to solve them.