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Contact
Parenting Solutions:
www.parenting-solutions.com
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Do you have a parenting question for Meg? A topic you would like her to address in a future newsletter? |
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Dear Friends,
I hope all you moms out there had a relaxing and meaningful Mother's Day - a day in which you were not only celebrated for all you do, but also a day that allowed you some private time to reflect on your own strengths and wonderful qualities as a mother.
Moms (and dads) deserve recognition every day just for performing all the duties that parenting entails; it truly is a full-time, twenty-four/seven, endeavor comparable to nothing else. I would like to suggest, however, that we take time to focus not so much on what we do as parents, but who we are as parents. I fear that many parents feel guilty for not being the model "supermom" or "superdad." Many of us feel pressure to live up to an ideal, but I think the guilt in this area is unnecessary and misguided, and I tell you why in this month's article below.
Speaking of parental duties, Seth and I are off to pick up our two oldest children from college this weekend. They will both be working in New York City and living at home this summer. That's definitely the best belated Mother's Day gift I could wish for! :)
Happy parenting and best wishes,
Meg Akabas
Parenting Solutions(TM)
meg@parenting-solutions.com
www.parenting-solutions.com
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| RE-DEFINING "SUPERMOM"
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Coined in the 1970's, the term "supermom" refers to a mother who seemingly can do it all - manage her kids, succeed at a full-time job, be head of the PTA, act as parent coordinator of the soccer team, sew costumes for the school play, and still find time to bake cupcakes for her child's birthday party.
No parent should have to live up to that standard, and, frankly, I don't really believe that one should be trying. Let's face reality - a parent may do all of the above and still not be a good parent, because none of those accomplishments gets to the heart of successful parenting.
It's time to redefine what it means to be a "supermom." I propose a definition that not only sets more realistic standards, but also puts the emphasis on what's truly important.
So, here it is, straight from Meg's tell-it-like-it-is dictionary of real parenting:
Whether she works full-time, part-time, or is a stay-at-home parent, a
supermom (or dad):
1) Understands her children - She knows what makes them tick and what floats their boat. This understanding enables her to introduce them to a world of possibilities and nurture and share their passions.
2) Knows what her children need - She is their teacher, and knows that they need structure and boundaries along with unconditional love, respect, support, and encouragement. By providing these from the start, she develops a relationship of trust and respect with her children.
3) Knows herself - She does not lose her own passions and desires when she becomes a mother. Balance allows her to nurture herself and take care of her body and her soul. Being a mother is integral to who she is, but she is a multi-faceted person.
4) Walks the walk - She recognizes that the best method of teaching is by example. She embodies the qualities of restraint, respect, and sensitivity towards others, inspiring her children to do the same.
5) Finds the joy in motherhood - She embraces the responsibilities and rewards of being a parent. Reaping gratification inspires her to do the hard work and maintain the consistency that is necessary to raise great kids who are a pleasure to be around.
So, maybe you are a supermom (or dad) after all! I encourage you to examine your strengths and weaknesses in each of the above areas. You may find that certain elements come naturally, and others need nurturing or a little tweaking. If you find that one of these realms is challenging for you, and you're not sure how to make improvements, I can help you become the supermom (or superdad) you want to be. Contact me at meg@parenting-solutions.com and we'll discuss how I can help you reach your full "super-parenting" potential!
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PARENTING SOLUTIONS QUICK TIP:
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Sit down with your child and browse through the season brochure from your local family theater. Discuss which events look interesting to him/her and then let your child choose a show he/she would like to attend. If you have more than one child, let each of them select a show to see alone with you, and then have them decide on a show they would all like to see together.
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PARENTING SOLUTIONS QUICK TIP:
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Make a list of "favorite things" you think your child most enjoys. The list might look something like this:
- Playing sports with friends
- Going on family ski vacations
- A funny storybook at bedtime
- Snow
- A hot fudge sundae with extra fudge.
Then, when you have a quiet moment with your child (e.g., while on a walk or driving in the car), ask your child to tell you the top five things that makes him/her happy? This will likely lead to an interesting discussion, but see if you can get your child to ultimately arrive at a list.
Is it what you expected?
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Stressed out about your child's birthday party? Need help planning a personalized, creative event that will be memorable for your child and his/her friends? Let me help you design a unique, age-appropriate, fun party, customized to embrace your child's interest, and give you great tips for making the party run smoothly. |
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Not sure you're picking the best toys and games as presents, or even for your own children?
Are you interested in games that enhance language development? Toys that encourage cooperation?
I will help you select just the right toys, games or books for any child.
Bring it on! Visit www.parenting-solutions.com and click on "Contact."
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