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I, too, am like those other columnists who are resolving to be a better parent in 2009. I'm forever a rookie parent, learning the ropes as I go with my two young boys. (I still can't believe I have a seven-year-old kid.)
Here are four ways that I think we can all be better parents...let's call this list the "4 L's." Chances are you've probably heard or read about all of these things before, but they are easy to forget in the heat of parenting moments. If you can remember to do one of these a day, you'll realize how simple yet powerful these tips are for you and your kids.
- Lighten up. It's pretty easy to get into that cranky rut when your kids are running around and you know they know they shouldn't be playing tag in the house or tossing baseballs around in their bedroom. Or your teenager is listening to Motley Crue's "Shout at the Devil" for the 1,000th time at top volume. (Sorry, momentary personal flashback). Before you get angry, before you utter a sentence that begins with, "Stop," "No," "Don't," "Can't," take a deep breath, take in the moment, and lighten up. Take the game of tag outside and join in the fun. Ask your kid to turn the tunes down a notch with a dose of humor. You're always a parent, but it doesn't have to be chore.
- Let it go. The laundry, the dishes, the
vacuuming. Unless you're living amongst dust donkeys
under a pit of dishes, let something go. Repeat after me. Let. It.
Go. When your kids ask you for help or to do a puzzle,
instead of saying "Just a sec, I need to
clean the [insert household activity]," go hang out with them.
Put away the BlackBerry at the park. Close the laptop in the
kitchen. You'll always have household chores and work to do,
but how many amazing moments will you choose to miss because of
them?
- Listen. This is the tough one. Instead of
preparing your monologue about how much trouble your kid is in,
listen to him. Truly listen. Also? Listen to your
little kids playing in another room and be amazed when they create
imaginary worlds. Listen to your kids and their friends when
you're driving on field trips or they're at your house
hanging out. Listen to the chatter between siblings before they go
to sleep. You will find yourself smiling and smirking with their
banter.
- Laugh. Often. Laughter is contagious. Use it to your advantage.
My wise Shine parents, what would you add to this list?
