Janet, an expert in respectful parenting, shares invaluable strategies for parents working from home. She addresses the common struggles of balancing work and family life, particularly the emotional toll on children. Janet emphasizes the importance of establishing routines and validating children's feelings to reduce tantrums. She also highlights the power of acceptance in helping kids express their emotions, fostering stronger bonds. With practical tips and insights, she guides parents toward a more harmonious work-from-home experience.
Establishing a consistent daily routine not only helps parents manage their work-from-home responsibilities but also enhances children's ability to engage in independent play.
Recognizing and allowing children to express their emotions fosters emotional well-being, leading to stronger bonds and greater trust between parents and children.
Deep dives
The Importance of Routine for Work-Life Balance
Establishing a consistent daily routine is essential for parents working from home to create a stable environment for their children. A structured schedule helps children manage their time and understand what to expect, which can reduce anxiety and enhance their ability to engage in independent play. One mother shared that implementing a morning routine allowed her kids to thrive during remote learning, providing them with designated time for educational activities followed by play. This not only empowered her children but also increased her productivity as she knew there would be periods where she could focus on her work without interruption.
Validating Children's Emotions
Recognizing and allowing children to express their emotions is paramount in fostering their emotional well-being. When a child is upset, it is tempting for parents or caregivers to quickly offer solutions or distractions; however, this can inadvertently invalidate the child's feelings. For instance, one parent struggled with her son seeking attention during her work hours, finding it challenging to let him process his emotions of sadness and longing for her. Encouraging caregivers to acknowledge these emotions, such as commenting on how hard it is to be apart, can significantly help children feel seen and supported without immediate attempts to 'fix' their feelings.
Strengthening Bonds Through Emotional Support
Emotional support and understanding from parents and caregivers strengthen the bond between them and their children. When children are allowed to fully experience and communicate their feelings, they develop trust and security, which is crucial for their emotional development. One parent noted that allowing her child to express their feelings about their father's absence—rather than managing or minimizing those emotions—could help build a deeper connection. Overall, embracing a child's emotional needs rather than viewing them as an inconvenience can enhance familial relationships and contribute to healthier emotional responses in the future.
Two families reach out to Janet for help because they are struggling to get work done at home. Separating from their young children causes whining, crying and tantrums, which in turn interrupts and frustrates the parents. One parent writes: ”My son has significant tantrums about why daddy has to work… I really can’t take the tantrums anymore every time he sees or hears him.” With so many parents at home these days trying to navigate this dynamic, Janet offers 3 suggestions for how they can communicate respectfully with their children and help to establish boundaries.
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