How we raise our children may be cause for many disagreements, but we can all agree that no matter our parenting philosophy, it is hard!
I am raising two teenage boys by myself, and our oldest is going through Year 12- a stressful time for all of us, compounded by our family coming down with covid this term. Many a night I lie awake worrying about my kids, and whether I have raised them well enough to survive out in the world.
On July 1st it is the Global Day of Parents, so take some time to reflect on how you are doing. We spend so much time focusing on our kids, but what about us? Our mental health is important!
It is not selfish to take time to nourish and care for ourselves. A rested and enriched person finds it easier to assert boundaries and be patient and loving with our families.
What nourishes you? Apart from making sure I’m eating well, I find focusing on the following helps me: Creativity and Connection.
Humans are creative beings and we all need a way to express our inner selves.
Get rid of the perfectionist thinking that we need to be ‘good at something’ in order to engage in it. Having fun, exploring materials and expressing ourselves are all legitimate ways to be creative! Focus on the process, not the product. At Art Mania we have a variety of art classes that give you the chance to explore and be creative.
Humans are made for relationships, and we need connection with others to keep us balanced. Your kids are great, but you need other connections in your life too. Today’s society with the constant worry of covid tends to be isolating, and we need to be deliberate about planning time to connect with people to combat that. Don’t discount online opportunities either- our online friends and groups can be a great support.
Struggling to make friends? (I see you, it gets harder as we get older). Our weekly art classes are a good way to meet new people in a supportive, low-stress environment.
Lastly, a message to all you parents. I see you, struggling to do the best you can with the resources you have. Hang in there, you’re doing a great job.
