When Kids Drive You Crazy
It is nothing to be embarrassed about. Even the most level-headed parents lose their cool once in a while when their children. Every day as a parent is a challenging task, and there are some days that is more challenging than others. Here are 10 strategies for dealing with some of those especially stressful time. It is up to you if you try it. Acknowledging your own weakness in the first step in gaining control.
1. Leave-physically. Take a physical break from your children by removing yourself from the situation. Take a long walk or drive just to clean your head.
2. Leave-mentally. Take a mental break by fantasizing. Images may be anything from a candlelight bubble bath to a tropical island beach resort.
3. Figure out what makes you blow. Mentally list the last five times you’ve yelled at your kids. If there is a pattern, does it drive you nuts. Try to come out a solution to these recurrent stress times.
4. Lower your standards. This will be difficult for the perfectionist. So what if you kids clothes don’t match? let it go.
5. Keep your blood sugar up. If your hungry, chances are you get angry easily, tires and get cranky as well. Be sure to eat three well balance meal so you can face the day ahead.
6. Change with the times. If your spouse is out if town for the week and you’ve got to take care of the kids. 2 dogs, and a cat, give yourself room to breathe. Let the kids watch a bit more TV, order pizza or let the kids sleep over at a friends house on a school night.
7. Communication with your kids. It is the best and effective way to know your kids and get close to them.
8. Learn to say NO. Although saying “no” to one’s children is sometimes necessary, it may be better at times to say “no” to events that will stress your out even more around kids. Considered it preventive medicine.
9. Simplify your life. Get a giant wipe-off calendar for your home. Put it where everyone can reach it and highlight days that look especially busy so that everyone is aware of the possible stress levels. Schedule time alone with spouse and with kids as often as possible.
10. Do as I say, AND as I do. Set a good example for you kids. Don’t buy all the junk food you like and then yell at your daughter for throwing a tantrums in the store at not getting the cookies she wants. In general, be respectful of your children. Many of the bad habits they’ll pick up will come from you.
But above all if you lose your cool with your kids, con’t be afraid to say “I ‘m sorry.” We all have thoughts of guilt after we yell at our child, but it is important to realize how he or she receives our words and actions. A hug or kiss with your apology, and let your child know that he/she is still loved.
