1.
Find a pediatrician you like. In many ways, your pediatrician
is like a partner. In fact, some women say that during
the first couple of years, they talked to their pediatrician
more than their husbands! Choose a pediatrician who
offers practical advice and knows how to listen. Remember,
there are no dumb questions when it’s about
your child. Also, it is a good idea to interview several
pediatricians and choose the one that best matches
your childcare philosophies.
2.
Incorporate time-saving products and services into
your daily routine, when you can. Without a doubt,
parenting is one of the richest and most satisfying
roles we play. It is also filled with repetitive,
routine tasks that can zap our best energy. There
has been an explosion of modern conveniences designed
to save you time and sanity. For example, tear-free
shampoos can help avoid bath-time battles; home-cooked
meal delivery services ensure a nutritious dinner
on the table. Of course, some of these luxuries may
not fit in your budget, but decide where it makes
sense to invest a little money to gain some time to
do things that matter to you. Who said busy moms can’t
read a book, take a long leisurely bath, or go to
a yoga class? Balance each day to include something
you enjoy. Time saving tools can help.
3.
Plan ahead for tomorrow. To make your morning less
hectic, spend a few minutes at night making tomorrow’s
bottles and cups, picking out clothes, packing an
“on the go” bag, etc. Make a to-do list
so you don’t forget important errands. If your
children are in pre school or older, let them participate
in this routine. In the course of managing your time
well, you are teaching them valuable skills such as
planning ahead, organizing, and problem solving.
4.
Establish a predictable night-time routine and create
comforting rituals. Reading, singing or a warm bath
at the same time each night will help your child understand
it is time to go to sleep. Let your child use a safe
comfort object to provide security. Keep an “open
door” policy to make your child feel connected
to you at night. The cuddling and intimacy of your
evening routine will help your child say good bye
until morning as well as create precious memories
for you. With older children past the “read-me-a-story”
stage, take a few minutes to relax with them. Most
importantly, before you leave their room, tell them
how much you love them and how glad you are that they
are yours…no matter what kind of day it’s
been.
5.
Avoid power struggles. Children don’t want to
interrupt their playtime to do something we care about,
like putting toys away. Help your child cooperate
with you by easing into transitions with plenty of
notice, by allowing them to make choices (“Do
you want to put this sock on first or the other one?”)
and by turning routine tasks like getting dressed
into games and contests. You may not want to see the
world through your child’s eyes when you are
in a hurry. But, that extra minute you invest can
mean the difference between a temper tantrum and a
hug.
6.
Play is a powerful antidote to stress. I always say,
“Where there is flexibility and forgiveness,
fun’s not far behind.” Forgive yourself
for the unfolded baskets of laundry and the leftovers
for dinner. Design flexible schedules for yourself
and don’t let your to-do lists push you around.
Parenting offers wonderful opportunities to rediscover
and enjoy the child within you. Playing and laughing
with your children not only deepens your relationship
with them, it lightens your load and reduces your
stress.
About
the Author:
Paula Statman, M.S.S.W. is an internationally respected
educator, speaker and award-winning author. Her practical,
positive approach to raising safe and strong children
has benefited hundreds of thousands of parents. Paula
is a repeat guest on Oprah and the Today Show, has
appeared on over 200 radio and television programs,
and is featured in publications such as Parents, Child,
Redbook, and USA Today.com. The founder and director
KidWISE Institute, Paula lives in Oakland, California
with her husband and daughter. For more information
visit www.kidwisecorner.com.
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