Struggling with your child’s bad behavior/outbursts?
Have a teen with whom you are in a constant battle with?
Have a toddler who is pushing the limits and NOT listening or doing anything you ask?

This week I am breaking down the complexity and craziness of parenting into a few simple strategies. Today’s #lazyparentinghack is CATCH THEM DOING GOOD.

Yup-that’s it!

Simple right?

Well, while few things about parenting are actually simple, this one actually is. Take a moment and think honestly about your day. How do most of your conversations with your children go? If you are like most parents, you are probably spending a large part of your day telling your kids what to do. Asking them NOT to do this, or that. Criticizing what they do do. And well, probably, not saying many nice things at all. Life gets busy. There are a zillion and one things we have to manage in our households/families/lives. It’s A LOT. And if you are like me, managing the household and everyone in it is more than a full-time job.

So, my challenge to you is to step outside yourself and imagine what it is like to be on the receiving end of you. What orders/directions are you getting? What feeling do you get from being around you? What words are coming at you? Now, imagine your boss speaking to you that way. How would it feel? How much would you like/respect/care for your boss? So how do you imagine your kids feel?

Today’s challenge is to catch them doing something ‘right’. However small it might be.

“I see you made your bed this morning! That’s a great habit and must make you feel good!”

“I see you put your dishes away, I really appreciate you helping out and getting that done.“

“I just wanted to let you know that I saw how well you played with your sister. That was really kind of you. I’m sure she loved spending that time with you. I also really appreciated it. It allowed me to get some work done.“

Little things. That’s what you need to notice. Any effort that is made to be kind, helpful, non-argumentative, quiet, entertaining etc. can be recognized. Our children want to be seen. They want to be acknowledged. They want to know that you see their good parts. Tell them you do.

Remember, your children want to feel appreciated, valued and loved.

I promise it will make a HUGE difference in the atmosphere in your house and in your relationship.

Xoxo