You are a cr@p parent!
Today I was telling myself this. I was cross and had no patience. I responded every way I knew wouldn't help. I said things I regretted and I felt the gaze of other parents who I believed were also thinking I was awful as my children were battling endlessly with each other to get an ounce of attention, however small, however they could get it. I know that the way I managed this was all wrong. I knew that I was acting like a fraud by implying I know stuff about children's brains but then upsetting my own.
The support I offer isn't about getting it perfect, this is about acknowledging the difficulties of it all. That we are all human. That we, like our children, can be super sensitive to stuff. We do not have to be perfect (there's actually research that says 'good enough' is what our children need!) And we can repair it with our kids. Show them it's OK to get it wrong. Show them the power of repair.
That's what we did when we got home. I sat them down and acknowledged, "You all needed me at once, and I couldn't give you all that. It was hard for you, and I understand that." Then, we snuggled and watched a film (I may have drunk some wine;) and we laughed about how silly it all was. I'm not expecting tomorrow is going to be much easier as a result of it but I know that I'm trying my best. That doesn't make me cr@p. That makes me fantastic-ish- doesn't it? :P
If you’ve ever felt this way, know that you’re not alone.
Join me soon for a course helping to support you to think about these things - parenting with heart. This course is designed to help you build a deeper, more meaningful connection with your children, one that can withstand even the toughest days. We'll explore several modules discussing different areas of parenting, such as how to create a safe space for your children, understanding their big feelings, the importance of play and connection, how to effectively repair after conflicts, and ultimately, how to foster a bond that truly lasts. We’ll also be using the power of not to be named (but very well known) amazing children's TV programme to put the info into practice, making these concepts relatable and actionable.
Subscribe to my email list here to receive a discount code to be one of the first to try out module one for 50% off! (limited codes available): [link]
We all have tough days, but we can learn from them and become better parents.
Hope to see you there!
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