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RISING WOMEN EXPERT
ADVICE...
I am stressing at the prospect of having the kids home for the summer.
Can you give me any advice on how to prepare myself for all the “fun” I’m
about to experience!
Let’s face it! Moms look toward the end of the school year with about as
much glee as they might muster for a root canal. Those who have experienced
the whining, the boredom, the relentless chauffeur duties and so on -- all
associated with summer break are especially susceptible to SYED: School Year
Ending Depression.
It doesn’t have to be this way Moms! There really are strategies to reduce
the stress and anxiety associated with SYED. One method is to PLAN for
independence. Remember your kids are getting older. It may be time they
learn to do more to care for themselves no matter what their stage of
development is. Little ones can learn to make a sandwich or pack their own
bag for the pool. Older ones may learn to use the oven or the washing
machine. Think of a few key skills that you could teach your child that
might just make it easier for the two of you to get along. Plan to find ways
to help them grow more independent.
Another way planning can diminish whining and squabbling over the long term
is to plan in guaranteed fun. One of the reasons we enjoy holidays is the
knowledge that it’s coming; the anticipation. One afternoon take out a three
month calendar and explain to your kids that together you are going to plan
something “special” for each week or month. Have them help you decide what’s
special. If Junior loves trains maybe plan for a short round trip train
ride, or a visit to a train museum or an old train station. Or schedule a
different train excursion one every month.
Consider all potential activities. Something inexpensive as having as a
picnic in the park each week with a different theme like “Old West” or
“Outer Space” is often enough. Plan “special foods to eat”, “special clothes
to wear” and even use “theme” names for each other. The more kids are
involved in the planning the more rewarding it will be.
Just in case you haven’t registered; having “special” plans that the kids
“look forward to” can be a key to motivate better behavior. Knowing that the
trip to the pool next week will be cancelled if they can’t stop fighting
with their brother is a strong motivator. So by planning for the coming
summer, we can plan to make it more interesting and enjoyable for everyone.
Jennifer Alexander is owner of Full Circle Hypnosis at 403.873.7501.
Visit her website to find out more about her services at
www.fullcirclehyphosis.com
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