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Aim to make your kids laugh until they can’t breathe at least once each day. Laughter is the best medicine, after all!
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Bust out those morning tunes! Singing can brighten the mood and is a surefire way to combat a grumpy attitude—especially since my singing skills are questionable, much to my kids’ amusement!
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Prioritize your sleep. Late-night peace might seem tempting, but those early mornings come around fast.
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Get a jumpstart on the day by waking up before your kids. I found that waking up just half an hour earlier allows me to gather my thoughts, check emails, and pack bags in peace before the morning chaos begins. It’s tough, but it’s totally worth it!
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I’ve been learning about the hedonic treadmill: people quickly adapt to new joys. So, to keep excitement alive, I’ve limited treats and impulse buys for my kids. An ice cream sandwich is way more special when it’s not an everyday occurrence!
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Kids often hear “no” more than they hear “yes.” I’ve been working on phrasing my responses positively: “Yes, we can go as soon as you finish your meal,” instead of “We’re not leaving until you eat.” It takes practice, but it’s changing the game!
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Celebrate the little things! I recently started holiday-themed breakfasts, and they’ve become a delightful tradition. Quick and joyful, they bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
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Repetition is key. A friend of mine focused on four main rules for his kids: “keep your hands to yourself,” “listen the first time,” “ask first,” and “stay close.” You can also use school mantras like “sit properly” and “accidents happen.”
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Reserve “no” for truly important matters. Bright red shirt with orange shorts? Fine by me! Water in the toy tea set? Sure! As Samuel Johnson wisely said, “All severity that does not tend to increase good, or prevent evil, is idle.”
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When I catch myself thinking, “Yay, no more stroller!” I remind myself how swift this phase is. Soon, the days of Cheerios and the Tooth Fairy will be memories. The days may seem long, but the years fly by.
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In summary, being a lighthearted parent involves laughter, positivity, and a sprinkle of celebration. By adjusting our approach to parenting and embracing the little moments, we can create a joyful atmosphere for our kids.