Few things offer more excitement and anticipation than thinking about the amazing task of raising a child. Following is some advice to aid you in the art of being a parent.

You can get quality baby items without spending a small fortune on them. Many high-quality items, from cribs to bedding, can be found much more reasonably priced at your local retail or discount store. Many times, friends and family members have nursery gear that they no longer use, that they might be willing to lend or give to you.

After clearing space on the counter, let your child lie on a towel while you allow water from the kitchen faucet to run over the scalp and hair. This technique is beneficial for toddlers who are afraid to dunk their head or be doused with water.

Parents of teens who are trying to choose a college should not pressure their teens to select a college based on the desires of the parents. When teens feel they are being overly controlled, they tend to go in the opposite direction, sometimes out of rebellion.

Every parent needs an occasional break from their children. Have a family member or friend watch your children, even if it is just for a few hours. If you do not take breaks, stress will build up and the tensions will keep you from developing a healthy relationship with your children.

When your child is having difficulty cutting teeth, try placing sour pickles, cucumbers or carrots in a mesh teether. While other methods of relief do work, your child is more likely to continue gnawing on an item if there is a taste involved. If a child chews longer on things, they will feel a lot better throughout the day.

Having positive family rules can help reduce the amount of fighting that goes on in your house, and help your kids get along better with each other. For instance, instead of saying “no hitting” as a rule, you can reposition it as “always be gentle when touching”.

When driving for long distances with a toddler or young child, make sure you stop often so they don’t get bored or irritable. While it may seem like a good idea to rush your destination, the quicker route isn’t always the best approach when taking a long-distance journey with the family. Put aside a few extra minutes for pulling over at some different parks, restaurants, or other scenic stopping points for a breather, and give the children a chance to burn that energy off.

These tips will help you to be a successful parent. Just keep in mind that no one’s parenting experience is quite the same. There is not an exact right way to parent in certain specific situations. You will get the best out of these tips if you select the ones that correspond the best to your situation. Children grow up fast, so take advantage of the exciting times you and your child will spend together.