Have realistic expectations of your family, partner and children.
Often during the holidays, we expect a lot—at times, perhaps too much—of ourselves and other family members.
Take time to think about what’s most important – whether it’s spending time together, helping others in need, giving gifts or staying within a budget – and talk about it with your partner and children. Turn expectation-setting into an opportunity for open conversation. Consider a weekly time together where all family members can share wins and frustrations, and have an opportunity to solve problems.
Model the positive behaviors you want to see.
Children learn new skills by example, and family members are their teachers. First show them the skill, then provide your child opportunities to learn the new skill. For example, speak calmly and politely to each other. Then prompt your child to speak politely (example: saying “please” and “thank you”), and praise your child for their efforts (example: “Thank you for using your polite words.”).
Show your love through affection and attention.
Give your child lots of physical attention—hugs, high-fives or holding hands—and be affectionate as a family. When your child wants to show or tell you something, stop what you’re doing for a few moments and look and listen. This kind of short but frequent quality time reassures your child that you’re interested, and that you’ll be available when your child needs you.
Take time to recharge.
Even though most December holidays are about giving to others, take time every day to look after yourself, even if it’s only for a few minutes. Try taking a few deep breaths, go for a 10-minute walk, listen to your favorite song or call a friend. You’ll be better able to look after your child’s needs if you also look after your own.
Raising the next generation to be confident and resilient, and have conflict resolution skills is a vitally important task that requires effort and patience. Taking the time to invest in your family and learn new parenting strategies can be a gift not just to your family, but also to the world.
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
3 POSITIVE PARENTING TIPS TO START PEACE ON EARTH FROM HOME
