Dear Kids,
I keep learning a lesson over and over again about parenting. It is pretty 'common' knowledge, but like so many things that are simple, they are very hard in application.
The lesson is: Staying Calm.
Your dad has been out of town for about 8 days now. All of you are missing him, and the meltdowns have been happening more and more the last few days. Teaching myself how to just stay calm is hard... especially with a baby screaming for more food and help, a 3 year old throwing a tantrum and a 5 year old not wanting to go to bed because he wants to wait up all night for dad.
In moments that are hard as a parent, it is really hard to just stay calm. I had NO IDEA before becoming a parent about how important this skill is. No one gets under your skin like your kids can. No one can push your buttons like your kids. No one can push you to your limits, like your kids. You will learn this as you become a parent.
So remember, to just stay calm. The moment you start spiraling, give yourself a break. Back off. Let the kids cry in the next room for a few minutes while you collect your 'cool' again. I have tried doing so many things when you are emotional, tired, angry, frustrated, bull-headed and disrespectful. I have tried coercion, persuasion, yelling, bribing... but nothing works as well as staying in control of my OWN emotions FIRST!!
That is my main lesson this week.
I love you,
Your Mom
No comments:
Post a Comment