feeling frazzled, but found a boost.

I came across this while I was looking for an image to post of a busy, frazzled, frustrated Mom. I really needed to read this today, it was a great boost for me today!
www.suburbanpediatrics.org/ParentingTips.html

Often, as parents we are tired! Frazzled by never ending obligations, we sometimes neglect to fully engage with our kids. Try to enjoy the little parenting moments as they happen.

It’s OK to have a messy house sometimes.
It’s OK to get a sitter and go out.
It’s OK to stay home with the kids — watch a movie or play a game!
It’s OK to make cookies this year from frozen Pillsbury dough instead of homemade.
It’s OK to sit in the warm car at the park while you watch your older kids go sledding.
It’s OK to re-gift — its green!
It’s OK to give your kids less gifts ... they will appreciate them more.
It’s OK to say NO without giving a reason!
It’s OK to order pizza 3 times this week because life is busy — and the kids will actually eat it!
It’s OK to go to a party with baby spit-up on your shoulder and down your back.
It’s OK to let the kids have a little extra TV, computer or game time if it helps keep you sane.
It’s OK to let go of the parenting guilt! We all do our best.
It’s OK to not be perfect!


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Dr. Pleatman's Parenting Tips
1. Use the 20 second rule! As a parent you have 20 seconds to change your mind after you have already told your child “yes” or “no”. After 20 seconds changing your mind teaches kids that they can push you. No rewards for crying and begging!

2. If your child yells: “I hate you” because she does not like your rules, that’s good! It means you are setting appropriate limits. Remember, you are a parent, not a best friend. Kids need and like limits.

3. Teach your kids to think before they speak. A friend gave us a framed sign for our kitchen that reads:
Integrity:
• Is what I am about to say necessary?
• Is what I am about to say kind?
• Is what I am about to say helpful?
• Is what I am about to say the truth?
We use it daily with our kids!

4. Lies – Teach kids that if they lie (which they all will at some point) to “fess up” immediately instead of lying more to cover the first lie. To allow them to “save face” you might say: “Do you want to think about that answer and try again?” Tell them that we all make mistakes, but in the end honesty feels good inside!

5. Don’t over schedule young kids – they need time to use their imagination. Over schedule teens to keep them involved in their community and out of trouble.