Be a Peaceful, Gentle Parent
Diffuse Parenting Stress by Reading, Writing and Exercising
Mar 12, 2008
It is possible to become the relaxed, peaceful parent that you envisioned being when your child was a newborn. Struggles with a toddler, preschooler, or even a teenager can make this seem impossible. But, you can learn how to keep your parenting goals in focus and become a gentle parent.
Read Parenting Books
Educate yourself on the stages and phases that children go through. It’s easier to understand difficult behavior if it’s typical for that stage of development. This is especially important for the toddler and preschool years when parents often expect children to act older than they are. This can be frustrating for both the parent and the child. Parenting books that cover child development can help parents gain a new perspective on their child at that particular age.
Exercise
There is no job more stressful than parenting. Exercise can help relieve that stress, but it can be hard to find the time. Go for an early morning walk before the day’s activities start. Join a gym that has childcare services. Or, make a commitment to walk every evening after dinner. When you are more relaxed, you will deal with your children in a more relaxed and peaceful manner.
Write
Most parenting books have exercises that the reader can do to explore her own feelings about parenting. Use a journal to do the exercises that you think would benefit you the most.
It’s also beneficial to journal about particular problems that you are having with your children, especially the things that seem to be your hot button issues. Writing out a problem will sometimes help you discover a solution and it can often diffuse feelings before the situation becomes overwhelming.
Join an On-line Parenting Group
On-line parenting groups can be a source of support and a way to problem solve with other parents. Be sure to find one that is in line with your parenting beliefs. If you are uncomfortable with discussions on spanking, then don’t join a parenting group that advocates spanking. Ideally, join a group of other parents that are striving to be peaceful parents.
Embrace Change
Most experienced parents can attest to the fact that once you figure out what you are doing with your child, he will enter a new phase and your old techniques will no longer work. A toddler who has been easy to redirect away from mischief becomes an argumentative preschooler who refuses to be redirected. When this happens, it’s time to find some new parenting books for that next phase. Continue to educate yourself on parenting and be flexible.
Post Inspirational Parenting Quotes in Your HouseDon’t worry that children never listen to you, worry that they are always watching you.- Robert Fulghum
Quotes that have a strong meaning can help you stay on track with your parenting goals. Post a quote on your refrigerator or any place else where you will see it frequently as a reminder.
Make a commitment to be a peaceful parent and a gentle disciplinarian. Then, educate yourself by reading parenting books and seek the support of other parents. Soon, peaceful parenting will be second nature.
