Parenting Tips

We’ve all been there. Sometimes, it’s just not easy to get up and get going in the morning. For young children who are still developing the ability to cope with new situations, preparing to have a successful day at school can feel overwhelming. Yet, there are tactics parents can use to help their kids leave the house feeling healthy, confident, and energized.

How do we help our children develop a healthy relationship with their emotions? By showing them how to have a curious and playful relationship with them! Instead of just saying, “It’s okay to feel sad,” we can show them it’s actually okay through our actions.

Almost everyone confronts periods of self-doubt. What if the other kids don’t like me? What if I can’t remember the spelling words? What if my teacher thinks I’m not smart? In fact, those three questions were all uttered by self-doubting kids who needed my help. Self-doubt, it seems, is part of growing up.

As parents and caregivers, we don’t need special training in science or engineering to help our child develop inquiry skills. Young kids love to experiment, explore, and figure out how the world works – and that is the heart of thinking like a scientist!

Courage involves making good choices in the face of fear or obstacles. It's another term for bravery. Remember: Bravery doesn't mean fearlessness. It means we do not let fear hold us back from exploring new opportunities, developing our skills, and doing what is right. For a two-year-old, courage might look like trying a new food, saying goodbye to Mom or Dad when a babysitter comes or trying a new activity.

Self-care isn’t selfish — it’s a basic need of being human! By teaching your child simple acts of self-care and including nurturing routines into your family life, you can show that taking care of ourselves, and each other, is important.

Families have a lot going on. Juggling school, work commitments, extracurricular activities, and social engagements can feel overwhelming at times. Staying organized, incorporating breaks, and prioritizing health are ways we as parents can take control to ensure the kids and grown-ups alike feel productive and positive.