FAMILY HARMONY AT HOME, CREATING PEACE IN STRESSFUL TIMES
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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)