Parenting Place Tips

In fact, being bored can kick-start the imagination! If we step in to entertain our kids at the first sign of boredom, they may miss out on valuable opportunities to develop their creativity, their problem-solving skills and their resourcefulness. If boredom is an ongoing complaint at your place, sit down with your kids and brainstorm a list of activities, projects and entertainment ideas, then stick it on the fridge and point your kids to the list whenever they get stuck for something to do.

Parents have consumed a lot of energy in the past monitoring their children’s screen time, but in these days of lockdown, loosening up the limits is understandable - perhaps even required! Screen time can be used in loads of beneficial ways and can serve creative, educational and inspirational purposes. It can also be used for some much-needed down time - for both parents and children! Guide your children to make good choices as to what they watch and keep an eye on their viewing so you know what they’re taking in.

Kids are used to the structure of a school day and a lack of routine can leave them feeling uncomfortable, even anxious. Establishing a flexible schedule for your days at home, and placing it where everyone in the house can reference it easily, will help kids feel more confident and parents more empowered to manage the demands of the day ahead.

You’ve probably heard it said that parents should put on their own oxygen mask first. This message is especially important right now, as to best look after our families we need to first take good care of ourselves! Looking after ourselves equips us to meet the needs of our kids, so prioritise some me-time! Do what you need to do to nurture your own well-being - take a walk or a bubble bath, phone a friend or just spend some time alone with a good book. It’s not indulgent to look after yourself, it’s the best thing you can do for your family!