May 19th- 25th is National Parent Education Week! Being a parent is a 24-hour-a-day job, and it’s normal for parents to
feel overwhelmed sometimes. When we’re busy taking care of others, one
of the first things we neglect is taking care of ourselves. Happier and
less stressed moms are linked to a healthier and happier family overall.
When we’re over-stressed, our children also become stressed.
Remember, time spent taking care of yourself is not selfish. Taking care
of yourself helps you be a better parent. If you think stress may be
affecting the way you treat your children, or if you just want some
extra support, try some of the following suggestions:
Carve out personal time, cut back on your load of
responsibilities, and incorporate activities that bring passion and
happiness into your life. Ask yourself what you want out of life, and
don’t go by what other people say or think.
Talk to someone. Tell a friend, healthcare provider,
counselor or leader in your faith community how you feel. Or, join a
support group for parents.
Get babysitting when you need a break. Some parents trade babysitting with another family, so each parent gets a break.
Reach out to other parents. You may find parents with children the same ages as yours at a local
playground, your church, or your child’s daycare or school.
Talk to your child’s school. Teachers and school counselors often can point you to other places or resources that can help.
Take a class for parents. You can always learn new skills to care for your children. Classes for
parents on discipline, school success or child development can help you
build on what you already know about raising a happy, healthy child.
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