Are you worried about your child starting school? Is your child anxious? Accredited Parent Coach Val Mullally discusses how you, as Parent, can help.
I think we learnt a lot of skills and patience driving those old iron steeds but now it’s great to be able to jump in my car, turn the key in the ignition and expect smooth-running travel to my destination.
‘How do I give my twelve year old freedom but also keep an eye on her without her thinking that I don’t trust her?’
Parent Coach Val Mullally replies:
I think if I had the conclusive answer on that one I’d have the mega-million book sales. But what I do know is that I would have done differently if I’d known when my kids were in their teens what I know now.
Here’s some key insights to meeting her needs and yours.
My daughter has never failed at anything. She’s extremely bright; everything seems easy to her. I worry about what will happen when she takes more challenging classes. How will she handle it if she finds something that is not so easy for her?
Even positive labels like ‘good girl’ can be unhelpful for our children. Val Mullally discusses the dangers of labelling our children.
A Young Mother’s Experience: I was aware that something was wrong when Hannah was 24 hours old. On being discharged from the hospital we had been given a checklist of symptoms that required immediate contact with the hospital. In the past 6 hours Hannah’s nappies had become offensive to anyone with a nose in the surrounding neighbourhood! Following the hospital’s instructions we made contact.
My son was nearly 18 before I had an ‘AHA’ moment about how I’d been missing the boat re: what made him FEEL loved. I’ve shared this concept with parents at many workshops, and they always find it hugely helpful. Heres’ DAY ONE of my Valentine’s ‘Loving Your Child’ series.
Pay attention to how your child explains his successes and failures. She may need your guidance in modifying that view.
“I hate you!” Spat from the mouth of the toddler or teenager, those words can erode the confidence of any parent.
It’s tempting to react. Fight back or disappear into our own shell when so blatantly under attack.
As Parents there’s times when we really need our children to listen to our instructions. Parent Coach Val Mullally gives some practical inisghts and tips on how to talk so kids will be able to HEAR what we’re trying to communicate – and respond.
