When it comes to parenting, are you in a slump?
Connect with your children one-on-one.
Deal with each child individually. Things can get so hectic that it is easy to lose that special bond between you and your child. Spend quality time with each child so that you can get back to where you were emotionally.
Talk to other parents.
Talk and interact with other parents. Yes, we probably come into contact with other parents every day. But the kind of interaction that I'm talking about should be more than just casual small talk. This is about actually connecting with others and being vulnerable. There are probably other parents who feel the same way that you do. You might run into another parent who also has the parenting blues and wants to talk to someone who is going through the same thing. Wouldn't that be helpful?
Read some parenting books or articles.
Yeah this might seem obvious, but books and articles can give you food for thought. We recommend the following blogs:
Hint Mama offers a ton of great tips including: A Trick for Getting Young Kids to Follow Your House Rules
Little Lane is super upbeat and all about having fun - they share different events for kids in the Bay Area including: 28 Local Activities, Outings & Venues for Your Littles That You Will Absolutely Love
Take small steps when creating your parenting goals.
I'm taking baby steps when it comes to my parenting goals. For example, I want to enjoy making breakfast for my kids. I plan to do things that you see in magazines such as putting smiley faces on pancakes with strawberries. You might think this is sort of goofy and off target. But remember, it's about taking baby steps.
Don't beat yourself up when you get the parenting blues.
Criticizing yourself makes this whole thing much worst. Not only are you in a parenting slump, but you're beating yourself up about it. Don't put so much pressure on yourself. Don't allow your inner voice to be so judgmental. If you need to take a little break from everything, then do it. This may seem harder than it sounds, but ask someone to watch the kids for a while. Even if you have to pay a babysitter, it's a good investment in yourself.
Also, keep in mind that you're a wonderful parent who is in a little slump at the moment. But you can still turn things around for the better.
What do all of these things have in common? They all have to do with connecting with your feelings, children, spouse and overall support network. All in all, I discovered something while writing this article. I shouldn't be embarrassed because I have the parenting blues. The important thing is that I know what needs to be done. I'm going to focus more on my connections.