Kiar Counselling

Hey parents at home with little ones. I know you’re stressed out and have no idea how you are going to manage for possibly weeks at home without activities and play dates and outings. You’re worried about keeping them engaged and occupied but not stressed. You’re worried about their education. You’re worried about social isolation. You’re worried about friends and family members who may be alone or vulnerable. You’re worried about finances. You’re worried about working from home or possibly losing your job or not having an income for weeks or months. It’s a lot. No wonder you’re stressed. These are very scary times for all of us. We are not that comfortable not knowing what’s coming. The whole thing sucks!

Here’s what I suggest. LOWER your expectations for yourself. Give up on the idea of a clean house, or getting projects done, of being as productive as if you were at work. Give up on your rigidly held views on technology. Work really hard to go with the flow. Focus on getting through the day with your kids. Go outside for walks, especially if you can get off the beaten path and explore some woods or fields. Do crafts. Bake yummy treats. Try to do things with your kids so you can enjoy them and they can enjoy you. Take this as an opportunity to spend time with them. I know that sounds like a tall order, but really its not. If you just do that, there will be less fighting, crying and tantrums. You will feel less stressed. Just give up on all the non-essential tasks and hang out and have fun with your kids. You will all benefit from this. Don’t forget that everybody needs some down time during the day, so whether they are too old for naps or not, institute a quiet time of an hour or two, where everybody stays in their space and reads, draws, writes, daydreams or even sleeps, including you. Also, use technology when you need to, to catch a break, to quiet things down, to have time to make a meal. Try to be kind to YOURSELF. That is really really important!

Keep well and keep safe and have fun on this forced family time!

A really important thing to remember.

Admire the Baby, But Don't Forget to Nurture the Mother - Her View From Home The postpartum mother is recovering and trying to settle in with a new baby. Admire the infant, but please nurture and see the new mom too.