Ten Steps to Calmer Parenting Calmer You, Calmer Kids You’ve heard it from almost all parents: “Parenting is the toughest job in the world.” But let’s add that it is also the most rewarding. Keeping our calm in tough times is not only good for our own wellbeing, but also a wonderful lesson for our children—who often reproduce how parents act and behave toward everything. So when in trouble, take a deep breath, remember that this, too, shall pass, and demonstrate a sense of calm and control. The calmer you are, the calmer your children will be. Take care of yourself It’s hard to take care of your children when you haven’t first taken care of yourself. In order to be the best parent you can be, you need to make sure that you are at your best. So exercise, eat right, play music and practice relaxation techniques. Your children deserve a happy and healthy parent. Stop trying to be perfect There is no such thing as a perfect parent, so stop aiming for that. Just be the best parent you can be. Allow yourself to make mistakes and show your children that striving to do your best is always the goal. Sleep in one weekend morning It may be a luxury for most parents, but it is a must! This means one day during the weekend, you do not have to be the first parent to wake up. Having extra time in bed alone will help you start your day better, and it will actually impact your mood throughout the week! Give yourself a 10 minute time-out When you arrive home from work, go into your bedroom alone for 10 minutes before putting on your parent hat. Change your clothes, breathe deeply or have a shower. This short break will rejuvenate you for the rest of your busy evening. Although your kids might not like it, it is important to you, and they will learn to accept it. Stick to a schedule Having a regular time to wake up, leave for school, get home from work, eat dinner, and put the kids to bed makes the day go much more smoothly. Time management contributes to a calmer household. Have date nights Keep your relationship fresh with a weekly or monthly date night. Just a simple movie and dinner with adult conversation is a wonderful treat. One day your children will grow old so nurture your relationship. Stay connected to your friends You spend a lot of time setting up play dates for your kids. Well, set some up for yourself. You deserve to have fun and relax, too. Be yourself Of course you are a parent, but you are still you. Be happy with yourself, stay true to your emotions and follow your dreams and ambitions. Allow your children to see who you are as a person, not only as a parent. Relax Not everything is an emergency. Some things can wait. So take a deep breath and enjoy this roller coaster ride called parenting. Don’t yell. Just talk. It is much easier for people, including your children, to listen to a firm but calm voice than a yelling voice. Make your words, not your anger the focus of your attention. Source: beliefnet.com