6 Tips for Less Stress Parenting

Are the kids driving you bonkers? Do you feel stressed out all the time and in need of some help? Whether you are a new parent, or you have a toddler, school age, or teenager, parenting can be hard, especially if the other parent isn’t able to be involved. Let’s take a closer look at what stress can do to you and tips to help relieve some of it too.

Side Effects Of Too Much Stress

Many times, especially as a parent you shrug off the amount of stress you are under, maybe you think it’s just a part of life. Reality is, stress can cause many issues with your body and your mind. These side effects of stress include, but are not limited to:

• Headaches
• Increased depression
• Heartburn
• Insomnia
• Receding hairline for some women
• Fertility issues
• Tense muscles
• Low sex drive
• Stomach aches
• Missed periods

With all of those possible side effects it's time you got rid of some of that stress. Don’t worry! We have several parenting tips to help you!

Parenting Tip #1: Join Mom Groups

Mom groups are just groups of moms, usually they have children that are close in age, who get together to chat while the kids have a playdate. This is great for you so you can discuss things with other moms and get feedback on certain situations. It’s also great for your child to interact with other kids who are similar in age. It’s a stress reliever for both of you.

Parenting Tip #2: Ask For Help

Being a parent can be hard, especially if you don’t have a lot of regular help. Don’t be afraid to call up a family member or a close friend and ask for help. Maybe you need help cleaning or just need someone to watch a very active toddler while you take a nice bath. Reach out to other parents too, they may need help too and you could both benefit from each other.

Parenting Tip #3: Time Out Really Is A Thing

Don’t be afraid to take command and be the parent. If your child is acting out, time out really is a thing. Maybe you both need a few minutes to cool off before moving forward. By giving your child a place to sit and calm down, it gives you the chance to walk away. Sometimes we all need a few minutes to get out heads together and our tempers in check.

Parenting Tip #4: Be Consistent

It has been proven that humans thrive when their life is consistent, this includes your kids. Make sure they are going to bed and getting up at about the same time every day. Set rules and stick to them so you both know there are clear boundaries in place. Also, discuss both rewards and disciplinary actions with your child. Giving them a voice, makes them feel included and more likely to accept responsibility and want to do better.

Parenting Tip #5: Talk To Them And Show Them Respect

We all want to be heard, kids are no different. Take the time to have discussions with them not just about important family issues, but also about things that matter to them. Be open to discussing any topic, even those that are difficult or uncomfortable. When your kids know they can talk to you, there will be more chats and fewer arguments, thus less stress.

Parenting Tip #6: Share Your Hobbies

Do you love to cook, paint, plant a garden, or even just enjoy reading? Whatever hobbies you have, include your children in them. Hobbies lower your stress level and sharing them with the ones you love will help even more. Also, don’t be afraid to try out a hobby that your child loves. You never know, you might end up loving it too. Life is stressful, but parenting doesn’t have to be. With these tips, you’ll be less stressed out and enjoying life a little more!