The preschool years (ages 3–5) are a critical period of cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development. During this time, children are learning how to navigate the world around them through relationships, routines, and play. Positive parenting—a style rooted in warmth, structure, encouragement, and respect—has been consistently linked to better developmental outcomes, including enhanced self-regulation, language skills, and social competence (Baumel et al., 2025; Berk, 2013).
This article explores evidence-based positive parenting strategies specifically designed for early childhood. Drawing from textbooks, academic journals, and trusted organisations, we present practical tips to help parents and caregivers support young children’s growth in a nurturing and constructive manner.
1.0 Build a Strong Emotional Bond
Establishing a secure attachment between caregiver and child is the foundation of all positive parenting. Responsive interactions—like cuddling, eye contact, and validating emotions—help children feel safe, seen, and soothed (Siegel & Bryson, 2020). This emotional security fosters confidence, enabling children to explore their environment and form healthy relationships.
According to the Family Check-Up model, children with nurturing and emotionally available parents show improved behaviour and emotional regulation at preschool age (Hails et al., 2025).
Tip: Make time for one-on-one interactions daily. Get down to your child’s level, engage in child-led play, and listen attentively when they speak.
2.0 Set Clear and Consistent Boundaries
Preschoolers thrive on structure. Knowing what to expect provides them with a sense of control in an otherwise unpredictable world. Positive discipline involves guiding behaviour through clear expectations, predictable routines, and logical consequences rather than punishment (Berk & Meyers, 2018).
Triple P (Positive Parenting Programme) studies have shown that consistent parenting leads to reduced tantrums, aggression, and improved compliance in preschool children (Mohammadyfar et al., 2025).
Tip: Use simple language when setting rules. For example, “We use gentle hands” is clearer than “Don’t hit.”
3.0 Encourage Independence and Problem Solving
Children in early childhood begin asserting their autonomy and testing limits. Rather than responding with control, positive parenting encourages guided independence. This builds self-efficacy and resilience.
Scaffolding—offering support appropriate to the child’s developmental stage—is essential. For example, helping a child take turns in a game, then gradually stepping back as they master the skill, fosters self-regulation and executive functioning (Colomer et al., 2025).
Tip: Give your child age-appropriate responsibilities like tidying up toys or helping set the table.
4.0 Use Praise and Positive Reinforcement Effectively
While praise is a powerful tool, research suggests it’s most effective when it is specific, sincere, and focused on effort rather than outcomes. Saying “I love how you shared your crayons with your friend” reinforces the value of kindness more than simply saying “Good job”.
Baumel et al. (2025) found that digital parenting interventions that taught reinforcement strategies improved child cooperation and parent wellbeing.
Tip: Acknowledge effort with phrases like “You worked hard on that drawing” rather than generic praise like “You’re so smart.”
5.0 Foster Emotional Intelligence
Preschoolers are learning how to identify and regulate their emotions. Rather than dismissing their feelings (“Don’t cry!”), parents can validate and help name the emotions their child is experiencing.
This builds emotional vocabulary and fosters empathy. According to Riley (2025), children with emotionally responsive parents show greater adaptability and social competence in early educational settings.
Tip: Use emotion cards or books about feelings to help your child learn to name and manage emotions.
6.0 Promote Healthy Lifestyle Habits
Positive parenting extends to nutrition, sleep, and physical activity—all of which affect behaviour and development. A study by Eslami et al. (2024) noted that parental adherence to dietary guidelines led to better attention and physical development in children aged 3–5.
Similarly, regular outdoor play enhances motor development and reduces behavioural problems (Biino et al., 2025).
Tip: Create structured mealtimes and screen-free bedtime routines to promote restful sleep and healthy habits.
7.0 Model the Behaviour You Want to See
Children learn more from what they observe than what they’re told. When parents model calm conflict resolution, gratitude, and respect, children are more likely to internalise these behaviours (Munzer et al., 2025).
Tip: Narrate your own feelings and problem-solving strategies: “I’m feeling frustrated, so I’m going to take a deep breath.”
8.0 Adapt to Your Child’s Temperament
Every child is different. What works for one may not work for another. Temperament-informed parenting involves recognising your child’s unique traits—such as their activity level or sensitivity—and adjusting your approach accordingly (Burger & Pang, 2025).
Parents who respond flexibly to children’s needs help them develop a stronger sense of self and emotional stability.
Tip: Observe when your child needs stimulation vs. when they need quiet. Respect their rhythms.
9.0 Limit and Co-View Digital Media
The rise of screen time in early childhood has sparked concerns about its effect on behaviour and development. The iKids Study (De Azevedo et al., 2025) shows that interactive digital use can hinder sleep and socialisation if not well-managed.
Tip: Avoid solo screen time for children under 5. Instead, co-view educational content and discuss it together.
10.0 Seek Support and Keep Learning
Parenting is complex, and seeking help is a sign of strength. Evidence-based resources—like the BePresent online programme or parenting groups—have been shown to improve parenting confidence and reduce stress (Baumel et al., 2025).
Tip: Stay informed by reading trusted parenting books, joining workshops, or speaking to early childhood professionals.
Positive parenting during the preschool years is a transformative investment in a child’s future. It nurtures secure relationships, cultivates emotional and behavioural strengths, and prepares children for lifelong learning. With empathy, consistency, and support, parents can guide their 3–5-year-olds through one of the most dynamic stages of development.
References
Baumel, A., Mishina, K., Kinnunen, M., & Ristkari, T. (2025). BePresent universal internet-based parenting intervention. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 27(1), e65391. https://www.jmir.org/2025/1/e65391/
Berk, L.E. (2013). Child Development (9th ed.). Pearson Education.
Berk, L.E., & Meyers, A. B. (2018). Infants, Children, and Adolescents (8th ed.). Pearson.
Biino, V., Pesce, C., & Martins, C. (2025). Motor skill development and outdoor play. Children, 12(5), 594. https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9067/12/5/594
Burger, M. J., & Pang, N.T.P. (2025). Well-being in Asia. Frontiers in Psychology. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1661988
Colomer, M., Hwang, H.G., & Woodward, A. (2025). Association between social network and self-regulation. OSF Preprints. https://osf.io/fm75d/resources
De Azevedo, L. B., Stephenson, J., Hughes, A., & Retzler, J. (2025). iKids study protocol. BMJ Open, 15(7), e101523. https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/15/7/e101523
Eslami, O., Cuskelly, G. J., Cantwell, M., & Egan, M. (2024). Adherence to FSAI guidelines for 1–5 year-olds. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/proceedings-of-the-nutrition-society/article/4244A62285F50452AC2C9F6A53C9B0F7
Hails, K.A., McWhirter, A.C., & Sileci, A.C.B. (2025). Family Check-Up Online effects. Early Childhood Research Quarterly, 62, 1–13. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0885200624001364
Mohammadyfar, M.A., & Ghorbanikhah, E. (2025). Parenting acceptance and commitment therapy with Triple P. Journal of Education and Health Promotion, 43(3). https://journals.lww.com/jehp/fulltext/2025/04300/comparison_of_the_effectiveness_of_parenting.164.aspx
Munzer, T., Barr, R., & Nielsen, M. (2025). Early media exposure and language outcomes. Frontiers in Developmental Psychology. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fdpys.2025.1574111/full
Riley, P. (2025). Early childcare and parent-child relationships. Victoria University of Wellington. https://openaccess.wgtn.ac.nz/articles/thesis/29614838
Siegel, D.J. & Bryson, T.P. (2020). The Power of Showing Up. Scribe Publications.
