- Shiela Portillo
Keeping a sense of calm is becoming a more challenging task for parents this Covid-19 season. With fear and uncertainty brought about by pandemic, it’s crucial that as parents, we learn to take care of ourselves and manage our emotions to help keep our children feel safe and build resilience while staying at home.
We have been in this pandemic for over a year now, and I have seen many children suffer from the effects of the pandemic. More and more kids spend most of their time in the cyberspace. This results to fewer interactions in the family. But like any other problem, there is always a solution.
Here’s a guide to help your family get through the stress of the pandemic. Just remember the acronym ICARE. This will remind you easily to apply it in your day-to-day life even after the pandemic.
INVOLVE
Get your kids involved in house chores. Even at the young age of 3, kids can contribute at home. This is also very helpful for those with special kids as this serves as their home therapy. This will help them develop the discipline they need to become responsible individuals. And it will empower your kids, especially the younger ones, when given the appreciation that they deserve.
COMMUNICATE
Building healthy family dynamics communication is very important. How we communicate our love language and allow the other family members to express their love language will help each one feel loved and supported the way they need to and want to. Another key to remember when communicating is to be clear and simple in the instructions you want to relay, especially with the kids. Also, follow up with feedback to be sure they really understood what you said. This way, miscommunications will be lessened if not prevented.
ATTENTION
Practice active listening. Pay attention to what your child is telling you. This will help you understand your child better. Observe the non-verbal cues he is showing you. This will help you check for red flags or concerns that need processing.
In giving attention to your kids, you need to practice mindfulness. This means being in the moment with your child. When you and your child are truly present in what you do together, it will strengthen your loving connection with each other. Practicing mindfulness builds more trust and security, especially for the child.
RELAX
Find ways to relax and recharge. All members of the family need this. Make a family schedule for the day to make sure they have a balanced time for play and sleep. Having consistency in the plan will help you and your kids develop good sleeping habits and a relaxation period. Sleep is essential in the brain development of each in the family. It helps prevent mental disorders and illnesses, thus promoting good health combined with proper diet and exercise.
EMPATHY
Empathy is the practice of putting yourself in the other person’s place. Practicing empathy at home develops well-rounded parents and kids. This will help each one to be more caring and understanding of each other. This also helps build compassion for others and oneself.
If we keep the ICARE guide in mind, this can help protect our emotional well-being, decrease stress, and develop a harmonious relationship in the family where everyone is celebrated and loved.
About The Author
Shiela Portillo
Shiela Portillo is a Certified Professional Life Coach, Certified Points of YOU Facilitator, and founder of Mindful MOMents. She is dedicated to empower family members and guide them through Mindfulness Coaching, Family Dynamics Techniques, and Phototherapy. Follow her on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/coachshiela
