Parenting A-Z: Keeping it simple.
Parenting is an indescribable job that changes at any moment, without permission or readiness. Here are a few friendly reminders that raising a human being can be tricky from time to time, but workable.
A-Argue less. Lots of stuff can be angering…if you let it be. It takes more energy to be angry, and you’re already tired. Acknowledge, and then try to let the emotion pass.
B-Blow bubbles. Bubbles are beautiful and will make you and the kids smile.
C-Clear the clutter. Whether it’s in your head or on the dining room table it needs to go.
D-Delegate. Give the kids chores. Help them recognize the importance of contributing to the family.
E-Elephant in the room. Don’t let uncomfortable topics disappear or avoid an opportunity to talk with your child.
F-Forgiveness. Every day, all the time. Don’t hold a grudge.
G-Give back. Do kind things for others with your kids.
H-Hugs. Always hug those little muffins and wrap them in your arms for no reason.
I-Independence. Kids need to learn how to butter toast and how to clean up the crumbs.
J-Juggler. Laundry, homework, work, laundry, dishes, dinner, bath, more laundry. Don’t try to solve everything in one day.
K-Ketchup. Kids seem to love ketchup on everything. This has always been a mystery to me. Tap into what makes your kid tick.
L–Laugh. Kids can be absurdly funny, teens are witty and angst. Use this to your advantage and have a good laugh.
M-Mustard. Kids don’t like mustard, or foods you spend a whole lot of time making.
N-Noisy. Kids are loud. Sometimes it seems like you can’t think straight. Don’t forget to breathe, leave the room, consider buying earplugs.
O-Open minded. Your child may be someone different than you expected. Work with it, not against it.
P-Porcupines. Remember your child has feelings to, and sometimes they’re not pleasant.
Q-Quest. Set out on an adventure, even if it’s just taking a walk down the block.
R-Remember. Remember your friends? Go hang out with them!
S-Saying sorry. Let your kids know you make mistakes to, and are willing to admit your weaknesses.
T-Tickle. Tickling little ones can cure almost anything.
U-Underground. Mainstream hype can be overwhelming and pressuring. Trust your instinct.
V-Veggie Value. Bravery to try new things is a lifelong practice. Might as well start early with spinach.
W-Within reason. Kids need to know that everything has a respectable limit.
X-X-ray. What lies beneath is often over looked. Look beyond the surface.
Y-You. You are amazing.
Z-Zonked out. Sleep is good. Recharge your heart and spirit.
About the Author
Andrea Picard, LCPC, ATR is a therapist at our Edison Park location. Andrea works with adults, families, teens, children, and moms/caregivers. Andrea’s specialties include art therapy, parent + child relationships, anger, addiction, and anxiety. If you’re interested in working with Andrea, send an email today!
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