GROCERY STORE SURVIVAL SKILLS

Davi Nabors — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:55:43 +0000

Shopping with a curious toddler or squirmy preschooler can actually be fun. But, as you well know, it can also become a nightmare. PREVENTION is the key, and we will talk about that later. But for now, let’s assume the meltdown is already in full swing, and you need tools NOW!

In the heat of a volcanic eruption, your goal is Damage Control. Once an outburst begins, it is usually too late to completely restore law and order, as your child has reached her breaking point and is communicating this quite clearly. My suggestion for surviving this traumatic moment is to: 1) STAY CALM, 2) SHOW EMPATHY, and 3) FINISH YOUR SHOPPING (though quicken your pace). First, if you do not lose your cool, drive-by shoppers will be less interested in watching you. Second, admit to your child that this is boring, and praise her for her patience so far. Try to soothe her in a productive way. Is there a healthy snack you can give her to curb her hungries? “I bet you are hungry. It’s past snack time. Would you like some Cheerios or some GoldFish crackers right now?” (CAUTION: Do NOT fall into the trap of offering a bribe. Promising to buy a candy bar or toy if your child quiets down will open Pandora’s Box of Manipulative Battles for shopping trips to come!!!) However, another safe response is to distract your little trooper by talking about the fun you will have together when you get home.

Lastly, if these tactics do not work and the howling continues, simply finish your shopping as quickly as possible and be prepared for a possibly loud ride home. Chances are, you overdid the morning and that ought to motivate ya to prepare differently next time. (See tips for Meltown Prevention). The good news is, thunderous meltdowns are often followed by a priceless, peaceful nap!

Relationship Matters

Davi Nabors — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:58:06 +0000

When it comes right down to it, parenting is ALL about relationship!!! Creating and maintaining a healthy and loving relationship with our kids is essential to being an effective parent. We can look at how God parents us as our ideal parenting example. Our Heavenly Father sets boundaries and rules for us while allowing us free will to grow and develop. He is neither too strict, nor is He too permissive. When we (as adults) make mistakes or bad choices, our Heavenly Father never ceases to love us as He ALLOWS the natural consequences of our actions to teach us even the most painful lessons. This is how we grow, mature and become responsible people.

Likewise, when we show our children unconditional love and empathy while allowing them to make age-appropriate mistakes and face age-appropriate consequences, the consequences become the piece they fear…not the Wrath of Mommy or Dad. If they learn to fear US, they will be tempted to avoid us, sneak around us, and rebel against words. that’s really not what we intend, is it?

The Bible is there to put us on the right course. For starters, pray each day for God to fill you with the fruits of the spirit (Galatians 5:29) so that you can be a disciple to your child. And memorize a few encouraging Bible verses (like John 15:7-8, Ephesians 4:29, and 1 Thessalonians 5:16). Try to say them out loud when you hit an ugly spot in your day. Or, for visual learners (like me) write them on sticky notes and stick them to your bathroom mirror. When you are able to escape for a few moments of alone time, those encouraging words will be right there to greet you.

Triathlon Parenting » Parenting

GROCERY STORE SURVIVAL SKILLS

Relationship Matters