New Year's Resolution...being the best parent I can be!
Dear Deb,
My New Year’s Resolution is to be the best parent I can be. I know there has been too much yelling and hurtful words in the past year in our home.
Where do I start?
Signed,
New Years Resolution
Dear “New Years Resolution”
I commend you on your recognition and acknowledgement of how your past year has looked, and on your commitment to change. Bravo! Change is rarely easy and takes time, especially when stress levels remain high into the New Year. Here are some ideas to consider.
Be Gentle on Yourself
- When you do feel your frustration is rising and your voice getting louder, just STOP! Stop what you are doing and retreat to a quiet place for a moment (Make sure your child is safe if they are younger).
Breathe
- As we get upset, we need more oxygen to get to our muscles (to relax) and to our brain (to help with positive decision making). We can’t just take quick, shallow breaths though. We must hold our breath for a minimum of 3 seconds to let the oxygen into our system to do its work. Take a deep breath, hold for 3 seconds, exhale and relax.
Get Support
- Ask you partner, neighbour, family or friends to support you on this journey. Have them watch the children so you can get out of the house and ask for their comments of encouragement when you are doing well. Asking for help is essential for ANY parent to be their best.
De-stress
- Stress is an inevitable part of life. However, we can gain strategies to deal more effectively with our stress though positive self-talk, eating healthy, avoiding certain substances (like alcohol and caffeine), and laughing more.
I would like to personally invite you to join our next group that will support you around stress issues:
Join the Adult Stress Management Group
Starting January 22nd at KW Counselling Services
Call 519-884-0000 to register.
Hope you join us.
Parenting Groups
- Visit our “Parent Education Groups” to see which group and schedule fit best for you.
Happy Parenting,