3 Simple Tips for Staying Calm When Parenting Gets Tough
By: Chloe Hart
Parenting isn’t always smooth sailing, especially when your kids seem to test every limit.
To help navigate those challenging moments, we spoke with Susan Woodworth from Walk and Talk Psychology. She shared three transformative steps to help parents stay calm and in control when emotions run high.
1. Do No Harm
When anger starts to boil over, Susan’s advice is straightforward but powerful: pause and protect. “Close your mouth and put your hands behind your back,” she explained. “Otherwise, mean stuff will come out.” Taking a moment to stop ensures you won’t say or do something you’ll regret later.
2. Create Space for Yourself
Susan recommends letting your kids know, “I need some space,” and then taking that time to reset—whether it’s a quick walk, a few deep breaths, or reading something uplifting. For younger children, this might mean setting them up with an activity while staying nearby. And if you feel stress mounting, her tip is clear: “Move it, or you’ll lose it!”
3. Repair the Relationship
After cooling off, it’s crucial to reconnect. Susan suggests holding your child’s hands and seeking or offering forgiveness. For little ones, this could mean sharing a hug and a laugh; for teens, simply being present can work wonders. Once the bond is mended, shift to problem-solving by asking, “What now?”
These steps can help you navigate even the toughest parenting moments with grace and growth.
Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.
Feature image: Canva
