Parenting Tips

Remember yourself and your family! Take care of yourself first so you can take care of your family. It's just like they tell you when traveling on an airplane — put your oxygen mask on first before assisting your children! Many of us have time on our hands during these fairly uncertain times. While it is a stressful time for most of us, especially parents, we will get through this "TOGETHER" and have memories to last a lifetime. Believe it or not, we will never forget this "unique" and "unusual" time. While we stay home, being safe, try some of these TIPS to pass the time.

1) BE KIND TO YOURSELF AND OTHERS — Try to remember that this is a very special time we have been given to slow down and reconnect. Make sure to take it all in — "glass half full not half empty." Stay in bed a little longer (because you can), read that book you've been meaning to finish, try a new recipe you have been meaning to make or just relax for a period of time every day. Whatever you do, make sure to check in on friends and family, especially those who are alone and stuck at home. This downtime will pass and we will be back to our busy routines in no time so enjoy it while you can.

2) CHALK — As the weather begins to show more signs of spring, more people will be out walking. Sidewalks and driveways are great spaces to share uplifting words of caring and motivation with chalk (which also washes off easily with the spring rain showers). Write any message you choose to share. Get creative and draw some inspiring messages on sidewalks and driveways.

3) PARTICIPATE IN A CHALLENGE — There are so many great challenges on social media - senior photos, pets, moms, dads, grandkids, cars, etc. and the list goes on and on. You can even make up your own challenges to pass the time, have a few laughs and enjoy reminiscing with a walk down memory lane.

4) ONE-ON-ONE TIME — With extra time on our hands these days and much more hanging out at home, we do need to create a routine of some kind. Be sure to include some one-on-one time with those you love. Snuggle in the morning before rolling out of bed, play a video game with each of the kids, call a family member or friends, stay connected with others the best you can during these "distancing" times. And don't forget to take care of yourself! Take a walk, meditate, take a warm bubble bath or hot shower, listen to music. Stay healthy and safe.

5) TALENT SHOWS — We all have our own unique and often hidden talents whether it's spinning a basketball on your finger, blowing the biggest bubblegum bubble or singing and dancing. Bring the family together one evening (or share with family and neighbors via Zoom, Facetime or Skype) and produce your own talent show — anything you do could be amusing and obviously more fun than watching another TV program.

6) DISNEY+ — If you don't already have it, sign up for it now. Your kids will love it and you will too. It's very affordable and it gives you access to the entire Disney movie library. Old movies are fun to share with your kids. They may remind you of your childhood too. Share the memories with your family.