Raising children can be a challenge no matter where you live. However, there are some cities where it can seem more challenging than others to raise kids, and Los Angeles is one of them. Parents of children in LA have the blessing (or curse) of living near the moviemakers of Hollywood as well as living in a place filled with a widely diversified culture. Here are some tips that may help LA parents make their children’s lives the best they can be.

Avoid Helicopter Parenting

Just because a parenting trend makes the news, doesn’t mean it’s an excellent way to raise your children. Many parents react to tragedies of the daily news by thrusting themselves into every activity in their child’s life. This is known as helicopter parenting, and it places a barrier on your child’s ability to navigate life independently.

Discover Healthy Brands

Being a parent in any city gives us the responsibility of providing healthy brands of food and beverages. All children need lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits to grow and thrive. Healthy food is worth the investment, for your family’s sake. After all, according to Crowd Spring, roughly 46% of consumers are willing to pay a higher price for brands they can trust.

Judge Academic Progress Fairly

It’s natural to want your children to succeed at school. However, some parents may allow their ambitions for their children’s success to become too overwhelming. If you’re concerned that your child’s not doing their best at school, talk with their teacher. When you speak with your child about their school work, tell them how much you love them, and emphasize that your love isn’t dependent on their grades.

Promote Good Dental Health

Begin your child’s quest for dental health as a toddler as they adopt daily brushing and flossing habits. As they grow, encourage them to become more independent in their dental health and visit the dentist yearly. According to New Orleans Magazine, 3.5 million teens get braces each year. If your child is one of those who needs braces, help them to adjust to life with braces.

Encourage Fun and Fantasy

According to The Genius of Play, children three years old and up can begin to internalize their perceptions of the world by enjoying activities that include pretending and role-playing. Kids who live in LA may feel as though acting is part of their birthright, and it can enhance their sense of community. Encourage them if you hear them singing their favorite songs or if they want to join a choir or drama troupe. Unleashed creativity might be the way for them to infuse every part of their lives with joy.

Be Attentive and Check In

Every family member can encounter challenges every day, and children sometimes find themselves unable to verbalize how they feel. As a parent, it’s essential to take the time to pay attention to the way your children act. Watch for a change in appetite, activity, or interest in your child. If you notice any of these changes, let your child know you are ready to listen to them tell you what’s happening.

Rejoice in Good School Choices

According to Los Angeles Transfer and Storage, you’ll be glad to know there are good schools all over the area. The same site assures parents that there are over 160 magnet schools in LA, as well as over 70 public libraries. If your children want to remain near you at the college level, you’ll be glad to know there are several excellent public and private colleges in LA.

Whatever you do, being a parent will always bring challenges. Every community has an identity, and LA may be particular. However, by keeping their love for their children as their top priority, parents will find everything else pales by comparison.