The SuperNanny is a TV show on ABC in the United States. Jo Frost is the nanny and is charged with changing the lives of one family each episode through her tough-love and realistic approach to parenting and child discipline. Her style has been well-received by American audiences who appreciate the principles she espouses and how she works with children and parents alike.



The Supernanny's Guidelines for Parenting

The Supernanny's experience comes from observation and training, not merely theory. The principles she suggests and utilizes in her training are clear, no-nonsense truths. She suggests using praise and rewards to establish and acknowledge good behavior. A star chart or special outing are examples of this. Consistency is also important. Once a rule has been established, it should be shared among all caregiver and reinforced regularly. Boundaries are also necessary. Children need to know what behavior is acceptable and what is not - this becomes more important the older children get.

The Importance of Discipline

Discipline is a critical factor for any parents. Through firm and fair control and an authoritative voice or presence, the parent can extert the appropriate influence on their child. Warnings also help. These are an opportunity for the parent to alert the child to either upcoming good or bad consequences as a result of specific behaviors. Sometimes explanations help improve a child's behavior. It helps to explain the reason why you're doing something - so just state the obvious. This is especially true when a child is being disciplined for the first few times of a behavior.

Give a Child Responsibility

Responsibility is an important factor in raising healthy children. Allowing a child to do small things to help around the house, or perform specific tasks that increase their self-confidence can help them learn the necessary lfie and social skills. With measurable and realistic tasks, repsonsibility can lead to a healthier self-esteem.

Relaxation is a Good Bond Between Parent and Child

Finally, be sure to have time for relaxation, down-time. This could be play time or doing board games or time on the computer together. Toward bedtime, this may include a routine of reading and storytelling. But the individaul attention in a relaxed setting can create wonderful memories for both the child and parents.

Better Parenting Need Not Be Difficult

By following some of the tenets Jo Frost suggests in her book, one can develop a more consistent and loving style of parenting. While results may not be immediate, they are possible through a consistent and fair effort by all caregivers. And through the appropriate behaviors demonstrated to children, the parents will be modeling good adult behavior and parenting effecitvely.