The Challenge of Managing Family Stress
Today it’s terribly challenging managing the stress from your work while also managing your childrens’ stress from school? When stressors collide, situations are created that often lead to anger, misunderstanding, and resentment.
Great Tips For Managing Family Stress
Develop a Plan and Stick to It
Family rituals strengthen family bonds. Establish family rituals in advance: bedtime/curfews; homework hour (no distractions); dinnertime (everyone eats together whenever possible); make sure to put up a calendar of everyone’s after-school activities (and keep it current) to avoid scheduling conflicts. Kids need (and want) structure—a plan reduces confusion and stress by keeping everyone on the same page.
Save, Save, Save
Financial stress puts strain on the entire family. Hit sales to cut down on expenses, both online and in-store. Stores usually prepare for sales on Thursday evenings, so get there early on Fridays for the best savings. If your state offers tax-free shopping days, take advantage of them!
Avoid Morning Chaos
Stop the morning madness. Pre-pack lunches, lay out clothes, get backpacks ready and shower in the evenings to cut down on morning stress. Put shelves by your exit door. All family members can put their belongings on these shelves so they are easy to grab on their way out in the morning.
Activity Time Each Night
Each night create family activities. Go for a family walk for 20 minutes, play catch or shoot hoops. Healthy, active parents create healthy, active children.
Encourage Quiet-Reflective Time for Your Family
Research shows children who get silent in a short meditation improves your child’s health. This practice plants the seeds of peace, wisdom, and reflection in your children. Have them spend 10 minutes of quiet time each evening. This is also their time to read, explore individual creativity, prayer, and meditation.
Practice S.E.L.F. Care
Practicing self-care teaches your children the vital importance of caring for their own mind, body, and soul. Make a date with yourself to get a massage, meet a friend, attend an art exhibit, get nourished! Your children’s days are filled, shouldn’t yours be?
Laughing Matters
Laughter is an immediate stress reducer and teaches children to not take themselves and life too seriously. See comedy movies regularly.