Joyful car ride!

Since I've been divorced, I feel extremely challenged learning how to take care of three young children by myself. Before, my wife would take care of the daily details while I was "the dad." Now the "simple" task of picking them up from school had turned into a nightmare. They are struggling emotionally with the breakup and it shows in their behavior. I came to Cynthia feeling like I can't take care of them. I'd like to share a short story of how she helped me.

Cynthia first taught me about listening to my youngest son's intense emotions and about connecting with him. My new viewpoint has given me the ability to manage my anger better and my kids even tell me I'm nicer.

Getting the three into the car was a big problem. So instead of trying to control them after their behavior was off-track, Cynthia suggested I try winning their cooperation as soon as they enter the car. This is a proactive rather than reactive approach.  

Now when I have all three in the car, we immediately start playing a game. Cynthia suggested a game where I say, "I'm going to the beach and I'm bringing a beach ball." Then one child repeats what I'm bringing and adds what they are bringing. Each child has a turn. It brought laughter into the ride home rather than fighting and kicking.

I created another game where I say to my kids "which would you rather do (fill in the blank) or (fill in the blank)?" Each of the kids gets to answer this question. This game allows for a lot of very interesting and funny choices and the kids laugh a lot. Receiving parent coaching from Cynthia has given me the confidence that I can learn successful parenting skills so I can have many good times with my children and become the dad I want to be.  

A thankful dad of three young children.