Being Present: Parenting goal for 2022

Happy New Year!  Time to set those New Year's resolutions or goals...?  Maybe that makes you think about the fitness goals that may or may not get done every year, but have you ever set a parenting goal?  What would it look like to commit to "Being Present" for our kids?

As parents, we are all busy!  There are many times I find myself multi-tasking and only half listening to one of my kiddos, but with practice we can make positive changes.  Being present isn't hard... but it takes some intentionality.  Here are a few first steps to be present in those daily moments, like when your child comes home from school, or just wakes up.
1. Be mindful of the moment.  This means trying to be in the present, not worrying about the future plans or past mistakes, but just sitting in the present.  
2. Make loving eye contact, let your facial and body expression radiate interest and care.
3. Put down distractions... yup, the cell phone.  Put it down and listen to what your kid wants to share. 
4. Ask a question or two about what your child is telling you.

Challenging behavior is always more than what we see.  Behavior is all about communication.  If we can train ourselves as parents to be more present for our kids, we will decrease challenging behaviors.  

If you're struggling with persistent challenging behaviors in your home, reach out to me.  Set up your free S.O.S (Save Our Sanity) Consult.  
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