It’s that time of year again where everyone thinks about resolutions but do you make parenting resolutions?
A time where we all reflect on what we did and didn’t do last year and what we want to do this year. While planning your resolutions for the year, make sure to include a list for just the parent-side of things. Here are my “mom goals” for 2020. I hope to create a year full of meaningful moments, relaxing nights and authentic family time. I hope you will join me in creating a road map of balance and happiness for our families!
- Save on the little things so you can do the big things. Removing some small frequent purchases like coffee and slushies will add up; then use that money to make a big family purchase that everyone will enjoy for a long time.
- Go on a tech diet. Smartphone and tablet use has gotten out of control and not just for the kids.Gradually reducing the time everyone spends on a device will not only help everyone’s eyes, it allows more time for creative play and is sure to bring us closer!
- Be in the picture…literally. Most parents have tons of photos of their kids having fun, but mom and dad are often missing from those frozen memories. Make a point to get in those pictures (even if it means you become a selfie taking mom) so that when your kids look back at them in the future, they will remember that you were there!
- Reinstate the family dinner. Get in the habit of eating together as a family with nothing allowed at the table but food and conversation.
- Be positive. Positivity is contagious, so be sure to be a shining example. Remove all negative words, like I feel fat. Show your kids how to find positive solutions to even the most negative situation. And always remember them of the things we always have to be happy for.
- Boost your kids self esteem. Between a critical, media focused society, absent parents and bullies at school, many kids seem to have such low self-esteem. While it is impossible to control what happens at school or what they see and read in the media, we have control over the most important place of influence: their home! Create an atmosphere of safety, praise, support, affection and happiness.
In 2020, my overall goal of these Parenting Resolutions is to make my children feel important and loved – this will create the Happiest of New Years!