Here are 33 things you should quit doing right now. Although it is typical for parents to be critical of themselves, this way of thinking is detrimental. Instead of beating yourself up, view little blunders as opportunities to grow and learn. Stop spoiling them! Kids don't need extra attention or material possessions to be happy. They will only crave these things when they feel unloved or unappreciated by their parents. Don't give in to your child's demands just because they can be difficult to refuse. Stop subjecting them to your own failures! Children need to see their parents succeed on a consistent basis before they can expect similar results themselves. Do not allow them to witness your struggles and failures alone. Share your successes with them so that they know you love them even when you cannot be with them. Stop trying to control them through punishment! It does not work and it makes both you and your child miserable. If you want your child to obey you, show him or her respect by acknowledging his or her feelings first and then think about changing your behavior accordingly. Avoid using force as a means of disciplining your child. This will only cause him or her to hate you. Stop trying to protect them from pain! Children have an ability to understand situations and people much better than we realize.