April 10, 2020, Kathmandu, Nepal
Staying in your house with your children for more than ten days with no outlets can be hectic. All the parents may not feel it. But for those parents who feel like they need guidance in their crisis, which shared some practical parenting tips. It will help to keep your relationship with your children healthy. Hence, you stay home and protect yourselves and your family from COVID-19.
- One-on-One Time
One-on-one time is essential for your children. You can talk to them about their interests and hobbies and share related stories. Or you can simply play with them or help them when they are studying. This will also show them that they’re essential to you.
- Be positive
WHO advises you to praise your child when they’re behaving well. It will assure them that you notice and care. This will make them feel that they are doing right. It will also encourage them to repeat the extraordinary thing that they’ve done.
- Create and follow a structure
WHO says that you should try creating a schedule with your children. This is a good habit that will also teach them time management. It’s also essential to make frequent hand washing and physical distancing a part of their new daily routine, so you can keep them safe from COVID-19.
- What to do when your children misbehave?
So, what should you do when your kids exhibit lousy behavior? WHO advises you to redirect, use consequences, or take a pause.
If possible, curb the bad behavior even before it starts. This can be done by redirecting their attention to something positive.
- Keep calm and manage stress
Parents should take time out for themselves during lockdown days. WHO advises them to take care of themselves so they can better take care of their families. Find support from other parents, or your friends and relatives.
More Tips for parents:
- The structure is essential, but nurture is critical.
- Teach your kids good hygiene and remind them that they are safe and will be taken care of.
- BREATHE – give yourself permission to put yourself in time out and nap time.
- Don’t micromanage your teens. Set expectations and be consistent.
- Take a walk and get out of the house every day for a reset.
(with inputs from WHO and Agencies)
