Parents Need Timeouts Too

Parenting is hard.😰Parenting in the time of COVID is beyond challenging. There are going to be moments when our stress and overwhelm get the best of us.

Here are some strategies for keeping your cool and not losing it on your kids:

✅Take a mommy/daddy timeout.
➖Take a breath and don’t be afraid to say, “I need a minute” and step out of the room. Grab a drink of water, go to the bathroom alone, or just walk out of the room if you feel your blood boiling. It may prevent you from raising your voice and the subsequent guilt you may feel from yelling.

✅Take a walk.
➖If you can’t get out alone, just getting outside can boost your endorphins and put you in a better mood.

✅Implement daily “quiet time” for everyone.
➖Even if your kids are no longer napping, practice quiet time. Have them stay in their room with books or toys and set the timer. My goal is 1 hour per day, but even 20-30 minutes of peace and quiet can help you recharge.

✅Notice your triggers.
➖Is there something that your child says or does that triggers your frustration? Is it a certain time of day or activity? Figure out what increases your stress and frustration and come up with a plan to prevent or mitigate it.

✅Ask for support.
➖Trade off responsibilities with a spouse or ask a family member or hire a babysitter for help with the kids.

What other ways do you take a timeout?

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