Raising kids is one of the toughest jobs in the world. These child-rearing tips can help you feel more fulfilled as a parent.

1. Boost your children’s self-esteem
Give yourself even a few minutes each day to enjoy moving. Exercise helps you sharpen your focus, sleep better, and feel significantly happier. It also releases endorphi Allowing kids to do things independently will make them feel capable and strong. By contrast, belittling comments or comparing a child unfavorably with another will make them feel worthless. Choose your words carefully and be compassionate. Let your kids know that everyone makes mistakes.

2. Catch your child being good
Make a point of finding something to praise every day. Positive statements will do more to encourage good behavior over the long run than repeated scolding. Be generous with rewards — your love, hugs, and compliments can work wonders and are often reward enough.

3. Set limits and be consistent with your discipline
The goal is to help kids choose acceptable behaviors and learn self-control. They may test the limits you establish for them, but they need those limits to grow into responsible adults. Establish house rules or put a system in place such as one warning, followed by consequences such as a “time out” or loss of privileges. Make sure to make a follow through with the consequences. Being consistent teaches what you expect.

4. Make time for your kids
Kids who are not getting the attention they want from their parents often act out or misbehave because they are sure to be noticed that way. Schedule together time with your kids. Eat breakfast with them or create a “special night” and let your kids help decide how to spend the time. Attending concerts, games, and other events with your teen communicates caring and lets you get to know more about your child and his or her friends in important ways.

5. Be a good role model
Be aware that you are constantly being watched by your kids. The younger they are, the more cues they take from you. Model the traits you wish to see in your kids: respect, friendliness, honesty, kindness, tolerance. Exhibit unselfish behavior. Do things for other people without expecting a reward. Express thanks and offer compliments.

6. Make communication a priority
You cannot expect kids to do everything simply because you, as a parent, “say so.” They want and deserve explanations. Parents who reason with their kids allow them to understand and learn in a nonjudgmental way. Be open to what your child has to say. Kids who participate in decisions are more motivated to carry them out.

7. Be flexible and willing to adjust your parenting style
If you often feel “let down” by your child’s behavior, perhaps you have unrealistic expectations. The environment influences their behavior. If you find yourself constantly saying “no”, look for ways to alter your surroundings so that fewer things are off-limits. This will cause less frustration for both of you. As your child ages, chances are what works with your child now will not work as well in a year or two.

8. Show that your love Is unconditional
As a parent, you are responsible for correcting and guiding your kids. When you must confront your child, avoid blaming, criticizing, or fault-finding, which hurt self-esteem and can lead to resentment. Instead, try to nurture and encourage, even when disciplining your kids.

9. Know your own needs and limitations as a parent
Face it — you are an imperfect parent. Recognize your strengths and abilities and vow to work on your weaknesses. Try to have realistic expectations for yourself, your partner, and your kids. You do not have to have all the answers. And try to make parenting a manageable job. Focus on the areas that need the most attention rather than try to address everything all at once.