Are you frustrated or upset by your child's obsession with devices? Well, I have news- Children learn what they live. So if you want your child to spend less time in front of a screen, then model this behavior yourself! Application: Create device-free times or spaces in your home. During these times or when in these spaces, all devices- including Mom & Dad's- are tucked away. This creates a great opportunity for your family to bond. Questions or Thoughts? Let me know!
Chances are, if your child is having a meltdown/tantrum or you find yourself in a power struggle with your little one, he or she is trying to communicate something to you. Before reacting, take a moment to ask yourself "What is really going on here?" Rarely do children misbehave for no reason at all- they are asking for your help! Application: Do a simple HALT check- Is my child Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired? The answer to this question will provide some insight and allow for you to respond more productively. Questions or Thoughts? Let me know!
Often when we are upset we lose the ability to respond to our children calmly and with intention. If you feel yourself reaching a point of overwhelming frustration, walk away and take a time out. Use this time away to ground and re-center yourself. Doing so will allow you to respond to your child more calmly, improving the parent-child interaction. This will also model appropriate coping to your children. Application: When you start to feel heated, take a moment away for yourself. Go to another room and practice a relaxation technique such as deep breathing. Questions or thoughts? Let me know!
"Play is the occupation of children. It is what allows them to grow emotionally, intellectually, and socially. Play teaches children how the world works and how they fit into it." - Schaefer & DiGeronimo
Research has supported time and time again the power of play. Play builds physical, intellectual, and social-emotional skills. Children communicate and learn by engaging in self-motivated, pretend play. Application: During play time remove all electronics and allow your child to direct his or her own play. This means that during this special time, you allow him or her to initiate their own games and even invent their own rules. Questions or thoughts? Let me know!
