Common Sense Tip | Parents Helping Parents

One Thing That Helps Many Family Relationships

Sharon — Mon, 30 May 2016 19:58:30 +0000

Setting aside one-on-one time with a child or partner can help sort through many tensions at home especially if you can:

1. Plan the “date” ahead of time.
2. Avoid any distractions while together.
3. Enjoy each other before talking through any difficult topics. If a concern is “thorny” increase the amount of time having fun.
4. Only discuss one difficulty. Be patient. A successful discussion readily leads to more another time.

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A Thought about Helping a Fearful Child

Sharon — Fri, 29 Apr 2016 17:44:14 +0000

Some children’s lives are limited by their overly cautious personalities. Rather than convincing a child that “there is nothing to fear” it can help to gradually and patiently help them get used to uncomfortable or intimidating experiences. For example, if a child is scared of crowds it can help to gradually “desensitize” them to an increasing number of people making sure that each step along the way is eventually a rewarding experience. This requires patience and time but if done thoughtfully can build a child’s self esteem and help make trepidations a thing of the past.

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A Thought about Fearless Children

Sharon — Fri, 29 Apr 2016 17:40:05 +0000

Some children are born fearless, a wonderful trait but one that can lead to a lack of necessary caution. When a fearless child moves quickly it can help to figure out ways to slow them down. A hug, a short conversation or providing a way to make contact with you or a friend can help an active persona think before rushing towards their admirable feat.

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Helping a Child with Self Doubt

Sharon — Sun, 03 Apr 2016 18:38:44 +0000

Everyone goes through periods of self doubt. If is often hard for parents to hear their children question their capabilities. It can help to take the time to listen to what is on their little one’s mind and avoid immediately arguing or reassuring their worries away. Listening for as long as possible and then patiently helping a child see that things are not as bad as they feel can be an effective approach to gradually and effectively reducing frustration and boosting self esteem.

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When Should You Teach Your Child How to Lose?

Sharon — Sun, 28 Feb 2016 01:39:50 +0000

As children develop confidence they naturally become comfortable when “things don’t go their way.” When a child’s self esteem is low because they are struggling in school, feeling unsure about friendships or having a hard time at home it is more difficult to be easy going about losing a game or other activity. It is usually better for mom and/or dad to address their little one’s challenges and find ways to build up their self image before teaching them how to “lose” when playing at home.

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Screen Free Times for Everyone

Sharon — Sat, 27 Feb 2016 22:44:01 +0000

It can increase and improve communication and meaningful interaction if there is at least one time (and hopefully more) each week when adults and children are not looking at screens. Some parents I know schedule a screen free zone at dinner, after school or during a weekly family might.

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Are our children experiencing too much pressure?

Sharon — Mon, 01 Feb 2016 16:48:36 +0000

Many children today are confronted with pressure from school and from overbooked schedules. They can become stressed and worried when handling too much of a load. Whenever possible it is important to find ways for your family to balance work and play.

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New Year’s Resolution – Be Proud of Yourself

Sharon — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 21:30:48 +0000

Our children will feel more confident if we take some time to feel good about ourselves. It is important to praise our children often. I suggest that each time you do think of one way to appreciate yourself as well.

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Taking Time to Offer Handmade Gifts

Sharon — Mon, 30 Nov 2015 21:41:24 +0000

With so much going on at this time of year it can be difficult to juggle all that needs to be done. However if you have the time and space it can be nice for children to be involved in making some handmade gifts for neighbors, friends or family. This simple gesture can give parents and children meaningful time together that highlights the generosity and care in your home.

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Taking a few minutes at Bed Time to Process the Day

Sharon — Mon, 30 Nov 2015 01:18:46 +0000

Children often are open to talking at bedtime. When parents can take a few minutes to listen to their child’s thoughts it can help them express their worries or share some good news. This time can relieve pent up stress, improve sleep and help a child mentally prepare for the next day.

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