One of your life’s best days was probably when your child was born. The bond you share with your child as a parent is unlike any other. Make the most of this special bond by improving your child-rearing with the tips below.

If you are expecting a baby, spending lots of money on nursery furnishings is not necessary. Many high-quality items, from cribs to bedding, can be found much more reasonably priced at your local retail or discount store. Also, consider borrowing some nursery products from friends or family members.

While you need to take time with your children, you need to have time for yourself, as well. Doing so helps you to retain your individuality.

Take a break once in a while. Get a loved one to watch them, even if it’s only a few hours. All parents need a chance to relax and recharge child-free. Your household will be calmer and you’ll be a better parent if you take a break.

Establishing clear boundaries and using positive reinforcement will lead to happier, more well adjusted children. Rather than saying “no hitting,” for instance, tell children to “touch gently.”

To keep your child from becoming bored with his or her toys, put some away periodically or shift some to the bottom of his or her toy box. Toddlers will cast away toys that they do not like and play favorites with those they enjoy. Keeping things in rotation preserves the sense of curiosity kids have in their toys, and removes the need to keep buying new ones.

Children want to do things on their own. If you give your kids some tasks they can perform around the home, it will help them get more confident. For example, if you are preparing to vacuum the floor, have your child help you pick up any toys that are laying around. When putting the laundry away, have your child sort one pile of socks. These simple tasks help your child to feel independent and help you to get work done around the house.

If you have adopted a child, make sure you let your child know when they ask questions. Many children that are adopted become curious about their birth family. When they have questions about this, they will expect you to provide them with some answers. As an adoptive parent, make sure that you are as honest as possible about the child’s biological family.

When your child is young, it is important to form a relationship that is both strong and meaningful. The positive effects of this type of relationship will spill over into your child’s teen years, when they are less likely to open up to their parent. Utilize some of the ideas provided in this document to establish a relationship with your child, or strengthen the existing relationship.