Regardless how patient of a human being you are, everyone has their breaking point. With parents leading busier lives raising kids, holding down a career, homeschooling and so much more, it’s no wonder parent’s patience often run thin. What happens when the parent who is supposed to lead the example of best practices of patience, loses it? Well, life goes on, but seriously you should use these tips today to start practicing more patience with kids so that you feel better and they learn how to be patient little people too.
Breathe Deep
The deep breathing practice that many of you have probably already heard about really does work. This method involves you taking a moment to pause when chaos strikes. Kids are going to test your patience every day and every moment, that’s part of their job as you help guide them to grow. Learn to pause when you feel your patience running thing and taking a deep breath, or two.
Start Singing
Now, this technique can be really interesting. If you have a toddler throwing a tantrum or a teen acting out, nothing stops them in their tracks better than singing a song. The next time you feel your patience running low, break out in a tune as you work to be the parent you know you are supposed to be. This will help others giggle and in turn, make you feel more relaxed.
Communicate
There’s nothing wrong with talking about your patience level running low. Learn to be outspoken about your patience being low, and your feelings and emotions in general. Tell your kids that you need a moment, communicate that you are going to take a break and be back with them in a few moments. It’s okay to communicate needing a break.
Practice Self-Care
The best way to practice patience with kids is to make sure you are keeping up with your own self-care. Take time to tend to your needs, don’t always say yes to everything, learn to let go by delegating tasks to other people. Practicing self-care will keep you in tip-top shape for your next chaotic parent moment. (Check out my post What Self-Care Looks Like in This Stage of Life)
Be Realistic
Lastly, make sure that you are realistic about what you are able to mentally handle. Raising kids can suck a lot of strength from you, both physically and mentally. There’s nothing wrong with being realistic and setting expectations at a level that works for you so that you can be more patient as a parent.
You’ve got this, Mama!
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