FAMILY HARMONY AT HOME, CREATING PEACE IN STRESSFUL TIMES

When we model peaceful and loving relationships, our children feel more secure and loved. Positive language, active listening and empathy help maintain a peaceful and happy family environment during these stressful times. 

We are models for our kids

• How we talk and behave in front of others is a big influence on how they behave too!
• Try to talk kindly to everyone in the family, adults and children.
• Bad communication between adults in the household can have a negative impact on our children.
• The more we practice modelling peaceful, loving relationships for our children the more secure and loved they will feel.

Use positive language. It works!

• Tell others what you want them to do instead of what you don’t want them to do: Instead of “Stop shouting,” try “Please speak more quietly”.
• Praise makes others feel appreciated and good about themselves. Simple words like, “Thank you for clearing the dinner,” or “Thank you for watching the baby” can make a big difference.

Nice things to do together as a family

• Let each family member take turns to choose a whole-family activity each day.
• Find ways to spend quality time with your partner and other adults in your home, too!

Be an empathetic active listener

• Listen to others when they are talking with you.
• Be open and show them that you hear what they are saying.
• It can help to even summarize what you have heard before responding: “What I hear you saying is…”

Share the load

• Looking after children and other family members is difficult, but it’s much easier when responsibilities are shared.
• Try to share household chores, childcare, and other tasks equally among family members.
• Create a schedule for time “on” and time “off” with other adults in your household.
• It is okay to ask for help when you are feeling tired or stressed, so that you can take a break.

Feeling stressed or angry?

• Give yourself a 10-second pause. Breathe in and out slowly five times. Then try to respond in a calmer way. Millions of parents say this helps – A LOT!
• Call a truce when you can see arguments building up, and go into another room or outside if you can.

(Article Adopted from UNICEF)