30 Days to becoming a better parent
This seems pretty obvious to most people. But there are moments when your babies, kids or teenagers can frustrate you beyond disbelief. Although violence towards my child is never something I would ACTUALLY do, I have been guilty of saying to other moms who are also experiencing a lot of emotional frustration, or PPD that “I understand why mothers shake their babies”. Again, not something I would do – NOR is it something that I think is excusable or right, but something I can be empathetic of happening out of frustration.
When speaking to a child who has done something against the rules, or inexcusable – you still do not hit. Instead you go down to their level, use common, to the point words with a stern voice and you make it clear what they did was wrong, and explain what they should have done differently. A good way to get using words in a matter such as this is to have them answer questions. What should you have done differently? Why am I upset that you did this? Is this against the rules? Do you believe this behaviour is okay? How would you feel if it happened to you? Again, at every age things need to be discussed in a different manner, tone of voice and using different words – however, in the end – all situations are the same – you never use violence, always use words!
If you find you’re a person who has a short fuse, or low tolerance for frustration – find ways that you can easily calm yourself. Walk away, breath, go outside briefly, count backwards – have a glass of wine. Whatever is is that avoids you losing your cool towards your child is important.
Have any experiences similar? Found any great ways to talk rules with kids?
Day 21: Use Words, Not Violence
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