New Parents’ Guide to Setting Household Rules

Being a parent is both challenging and fulfilling. You have this lifelong job of raising happy and good children while keeping the whole family on a strong bond. 

Having family rules can prevent almost any form of household chaos and help everyone get along together. They create a structure and set expectations on acceptable behaviors. In the future, family rules can also become the basis of your children’s guiding principles in life. 

Here’s a guide to help you set good household rules:

Have a Family Meeting

You can live in some of the most secure neighborhoods like Camella Monticello, but your kids may not feel completely safe in a home without clearly defined rules. 

Start the rule-making process by having a family meeting. Involve all family members so everyone understands why household rules are important. This meeting isn’t just a one-off event since you’ll find that you may need to make rule changes as your children grow.

Keep Your List Short and Simple

Toddlers and preschoolers may have difficulty remembering too many rules, so keep the list short and easy to understand. Giving them two to three rules to follow is a good starting point. As they become consistent, you can consider adding new ones.

Here are some examples of household rules for little kids: 

• Use your inside voice at home (this means no yelling)
• Ask permission when borrowing other people’s belongings 
• Put the things you use back in their proper places 

At this stage, you also have to define your parenting priorities. If you want your children to do well in social settings, set rules that can help them show respect and compassion when talking to others. If you want your kids to excel in academics, create rules that nurture their curiosity and perseverance.

Lead by Example

Rules for toddlers can also apply to grown-ups. Make sure that, as a parent, you’re setting a good example for your children so they don’t get mixed messages. If you have the elderly, caregivers, and other relatives at home, ensure that they also follow the rules. 

However, parents and other grown-ups at home should not aim for perfection when leading by example. If you think you’ve demonstrated negative behavior to the kids, admit that you’re wrong and apologize. This will help them realize that it’s okay to make mistakes sometimes and not be perfect. 

Use Consequences for Rule-Breakers 

Of course, making mistakes and intentionally breaking the rules are different. But both should have their equivalent consequences to help establish consistency. 

Anyone who breaks any of the rules should receive the consequence immediately. Remember that no consequences may lead to weak boundaries. When the punishment isn't working, try other alternatives. Assess the situation and consider giving positive attention to kids when they’re being defiant. Praising their good behavior also sends the message that you appreciate their compliance. 

When implemented correctly, household rules can improve cooperation, relationships, and discipline. Be clear and fair, strive for consistency, and praise progress for ensuring effective family rules.