From our School Psychologist
Finding the joy in parenting
If you’re finding it hard sometimes to find the joy as a parent, you’re not alone. Parenting can be tough. Luckily, there are loads of resources to help us along the way. The Nurtured First website, https://nurturedfirst.com/ has podcast episodes and blogs covering a range of titles from co-regulation, responding calmly, and positive parenting, covering ages 0 to school age. If you’re struggling with a child who misbehaves at school, but not at home (or vice versa), check out this blog for some tips on how to manage these challenges: https://nurturedfirst.com/preschooler/school-behaviour-challenges/ .
Another challenge might be around asking about their school day. Perhaps you just get one word as a response, or your child feels bombarded with too many questions after a busy school day. Remember that downtime is needed for your child to process their day and recharge. If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD or Autism they may struggle a little more with cognitive overload. Dr. Neff has adapted the ‘spoon theory’ for these diagnoses, using a metaphor around the concept of different spoons, or energy reserves that may impact a child’s day. Google “The Neurodivergent Spoon Drawer” if you’d like to read more and find out how to support a child running out of ‘spoons’ by replenishing their supply. Taking a mindful moment is a great way to recharge at the end of a school day.
If your child struggles to be told ‘no’ when appropriate, Dr. Siggie has some scripts that may help on her Instagram page: “My answer is no. It’s hard to hear my no sometiems…I totally get that. You can feel disappointed for as long as you need. When you’re ready, see if you can help yourself feel a little better. I know you’ll be ok”.
As with all parenting advice, there is no one size fits all, as our children are unique individuals and respond differently even within the same family and same upbringing. By exploring a range of resources available, we can hopefully find the ones that fit with our parenting style and our amazing family.
I hope this resource helps you find some joy ?.