Not found
What is Reparenting and How to Begin
Our childhood is where the subconscious mind is formed.
Itâs also where we learn how we process emotions, what relationships look like, how to hold boundaries, and countless other habits and behaviours.
Ideally, our parents are two different people brought up in different situations who allow their children to be seen and heard as the unique individual they are. The reality is that we live in a culture that does not teach conscious awareness, so most of us are born to unconscious parents.
Unconscious parents are repeating the same habits and patterns theyâve learned. Theyâre operating from a wounded space because of their own unprocessed emotions.
Itâs important to understand that parents can only parent from their own level of awareness.
We can only give others what we have practiced giving ourselves.
Some of you reading this might be thinking âMy childhood is over, thereâs no reason to go back there.â Or âIf my childhood is where I learned most of my coping mechanisms, Iâm screwed.â
We tend to be protective and defensive around our childhood experience, but the truth is we have a unique opportunity to heal and consciously choose different behaviour as adults. Regardless of what we have experienced in our past.
This process is called reparenting.
Reparenting is the act of giving yourself what you didnât receive as a child.
Now, it is time for us to do the best we could with our own evolved level of awareness.
Reparenting is our personal responsibility. Anyone can begin the process of reparenting themselves. It takes time, commitment, and patience. There is no quick fix. It will require you to show up every day. But it will allow you to heal and forgive.
The 4 Pillars of reparenting are:
Discipline, Joy, Emotional Regulation, and Self-care.
Depending on your unique childhood experience, some of these will be more difficult than others. Discipline was the most difficult part when there are unspoken and unresolved tantrums. For example, there was no part of you that wanted to wake up early, or really do anything âplanned.â It was a process of grieving for past self as well as self-compassion to allow you to view discipline in another way.
Another major struggle for one would be finding joy. Joy is an emotional experience. Itâs the product of spontaneity, play, creativity, and pure presence. Part of discovering joy is learning your own unique passions and interests. This is something I had to spend time connecting to. I had to relearn âme.â
Emotional regulation will take lots of effort when you do parent your kids along with reparenting yourselves. With days and months and years of effort you can achieve it and with consistency it can be carried forward in the life journey.
Self-care starts with loving and accepting ourselves in everything we do and whatever we do. When there is a feel of oneness within oneself this can be felt magical.
Reparenting will bring us so much more confidence, empathy, and creative energy.
Here are 5 Steps to Begin:
- Breathe consciously:
Itâs easy to become overwhelmed. Reparenting is a process. Itâs not something that happens overnight. Itâs not something that happens over a couple of months. If you try to do too much of this work at once, youâll become overwhelmed and fall back into old patterns. Follow the steps, do not try to do too much at once.
- Keep one small promise to your yourself every day:
This step should be so small that itâs seemingly insignificant. You need to choose something that sets you into a situation where youâll succeed. Some good examples are: meditate for 2 minutes, go for a 5-minute walk around the block each morning, cook one meal at home every day, future self-journal each night before bed. Time is important here: do not choose any promise that takes more than 10 minutes in total.
- Tell someone you trust (other than your parents) that youâre beginning the process:
do not share that youâre doing this with your parents. Itâs not necessary, and can be hurtful to them. Remember, they did the best they could with their level of awareness and will likely become defensive if you talk about this. Reparenting is for you. If you have a partner or a close friend, let them know youâre working on this. Support will be helpful.
- Use this Mantra:
âWhat can I give myself right now?â This is a mantra I use often. As children, we werenât always given what we needed. As adults we have an opportunity to give what we need to ourselves. When you feel yourself having strong emotions, ask this question. Sometimes the answer for me is to disconnect with social media, or a need to get into the sun for 15 minutes. Itâs ok if when you begin asking this question you feel confused or like there is no answer. Just continue asking. Itâs a practice of connecting with intuition. If you stay committed, youâll begin to get answers.
- Celebrate when you show up:
if we were not recognized, celebrated, and seen for the unique individual of who we are, we will quickly disregard the reality that we are showing up. Reparenting is difficult. Its soul work. Acknowledge the courage it takes. Own your progress. Celebrate the person youâre becoming.
In the journey of reparenting I am happy that I am becoming a different person and I am happy that I discovered it in the process of parenting. Thanks to my wonderful kid for giving me such a golden opportunity of being a parent.
Navigating Peer Pressure in Middle School: Parenting Strategies
Middle school is a time of exciting growth, change and new experiences. However, it also presents its own unique set of struggles. One such hurdle that our kids have to face during these years is peer pressure. Yes, we all know about peer pressure, but as parents, it can be really tough to figure out how to help our kids handle it on their own.
Now, you might be wondering, do we have any tools or strategies to help our kids navigate this challenge at school more easily? The answer is yes, we do. We all know these tools, even if we might not be fully aware of them. As parents, we can give our kids the support they need to handle these situations with confidence and independence.
Before we dive into the topic, let’s first define ‘Peer Pressure’.
Peer pressure is when our peers or those around us try to persuade us into doing something that goes against our beliefs, morals, and values. While it can be a great motivator for kids to engage in new activities, academic studies, or even pick up a few success skills or habits along the way, more often than not, competition among children is fairly unhealthy.
But then why does it seem so much worse in Middle School? Now, you might be thinking, I’m talking about middle school, but we know that peer pressure can happen in high school, among friends in the community, and beyond.
Middle schoolers are typically between the ages of 11 and 14, covering grades 6 through 8. They are at an age where they are developing their sense of self, making them particularly vulnerable to peer influence. The desire to conform and be accepted often clouds their judgment.
Now that we understand what peer pressure is and why middle schoolers are especially vulnerable, let’s explore a few ways we, as parents, can empower our children to face this challenge head-on.
- Communication is the key: This is the most vital point in whatever challenges we face as parents on our parenting journey. Little do we realize that this powerful tool is the first solution to many parenting problems. Now, letâs face it, we just donât know how to communicate with our children the right way. We think we do, but in reality, most of us fail here. We often fail to create a safe space for a conversation to take place. So, first of all, we need to create that space for our children to talk about their day, friends, and any pressures they feel This doesn’t mean we should bombard them with questions. Instead, gauge their mood and temperament, and approach them gently, not like an interviewer. Most importantly, we need to listen to them without immediate judgment or solutions. They need to know that they can approach us with any problem. Once this realization sets in, half the problem is resolved. If you havenât tried it yet, go ahead and give it a shot.
- Teach them the ability to make decisions: Next, we need to help our children understand the importance of making their own decisions. This not only helps them feel more confident but also encourages independence. Trust me, I’ve tried it with my son, and it truly makes a difference. Here’s what we can do: engage them in discussions about various real-life scenarios they may encounter, and then role-play responses to peer pressure.
- Encourage them to think critically: First, letâs understand what critical thinking is about. The ability to analyse, evaluate, and interpret information effectively is critical thinking. Now, you might be wondering, do middle schoolers possess the ability to think critically? Certainly, middle schoolers can indeed develop critical thinking abilities. However, the degree to which they showcase this skill may differ based on their unique levels of maturity and experiences. As parents, we need to encourage our children to think about the consequences of their actions. You can ask questions like, âWhat do you think will happen if you do that? Or What would you do in this situation?â This will help them to reflect and respond. Most of the time, they come up with great responses.
- Build their self-esteem: Now how do we do this? Isnât it an inborn trait? Well, you see, we can always nurture confidence in our children. We need to support their interests and strengths. When we do that, it automatically builds their self-esteem. Remember, a confident child is more resilient against negative peer pressure.
- Lay down your expectations clearly: Often, we donât set our expectations clearly with our children. This often leads to confusion and frustration, not just for them but also for us. Setting the right expectations always helps. When we establish and communicate our familyâs values and expectations to our children, they are clear and understand what is expected of them. There is no room for confusion there. When they know our stance on certain behaviours, it helps them make better choices.
- Do what you want them to do: How can we expect our children to behave and act in a certain way when most of the time we fail to show them as parents? Children learn a great deal by observing their parents. Therefore, it’s important for us to model how to handle peer pressure in our own lives. Let’s refrain from discussing situations where others have something we don’t and how we desire it. Instead, let’s exhibit resilience and contentment in front of our children.
- Teach them the importance of choosing the right company: âA man is known by the company he keepsâ. Letâs teach our children to build friendships with peers who share similar values and interests. Positive peer groups can provide support and reduce the impact of negative pressure.
- Teach them the art of saying âNoâ: This is extremely important. Letâs equip our children with simple, assertive ways to say no. Phrases like, âNo, thanks, Iâm not into that,â or âIâd rather not,â can be very effective.
As parents, it’s important that we empower our children to manage peer pressure. Our goal isn’t to shield them from it, but to arm them with confidence so that they can face it head-on. By implementing these simple strategies, like open communication, encouraging independence, and modelling positive behaviour, we can guide our children through these critical years with success.
NEVER DO THIS DURING EXAMS
NEVER DO THIS DURING EXAMS
Exams are times when everyone is scared.
Exams are times when all parents are stressed.
Exams are times when we want results and nothing else matters.
But what you say and do makes a big difference. So! Here are things you should never do during exams.
Never do this during exams
1. Never Demoralise
EFFECT: It will build their confidence and take their fear away
As parents, we unconsciously put our children down especially in front of others. Oh! He/she is useless and lazy and does not want to work at all. Demoralizing children before their exams puts doubts in their minds about their capabilities. They will not have faith in themselves. Instead say they he is really working hard, and I have faith in my child. Compliment when they are listening but watching.
2. Never talk about past failures
EFFECT- Will have faith in changing their future.
a. Most children work hard during exams because they that these exams are important. They buck up and work harder on their grades. Instead, tell them that you have faith in what they are going to do and achieve in this exam. You need to boost their ego and appreciate their efforts. Talk about things they have done well in the past.
3. Never discuss how was the exam paper.
EFFECT- Eases the mind and puts less pressure on the next exams.
a. Whatâs done cannot be undone what is written cannot be changed. This could pull down the child and make him get more worried about how the next paper will go. Reduce fear and inculcate happiness.
To know how to be happy you can check my article on the Happiness Dose.
4. Never Demotivate
EFFECT: It will make them believe in themselves that they can change things if they put their mind to it
a. Motivation can even make a lame man walk but if you keep telling your child he/she is useless, fit for nothing, dumb, stupid, looser, irresponsible, or a failure because you are putting thoughts of failure in your child. You are manifesting your thoughts. You are pushing your child to not achieve. Reverse psychology does not work and may backfire. It leads to self-doubt. Motivation is the only way forward for success.
5. Never be away.
EFFECT: They know you will be there with them and they can always count on you for anything
a. At least one parent should be there with the child during exams to make sure everything is going well. In case of an emergency, you are there for the child. Be there so they know that if they need any help, you are easily available and that they mean the world to you during this time. Your work, your social life, and your work should take a break. Being there for them will help build a trusting relationship. Teens like to show they are independent but deep down they need you no matter what, so be there for them. Do not make it look like a forced sacrifice or make them feel guilty that you are there for them. It will not serve the purpose. Be genuinely for them.
It is the simple things we do for our children that make them know that we love them. Be there for them because they need you always. Love them unconditionally. Let them know they are important and special. Treat them with love and affection because exams are difficult times for them, so you must go easy on them.
#bossyourmind #sandhyalalwellnesscoach #sandhyalal #sandhyalalchallapalli #sandhyalalparentalcoach #Parenteen #examtime #betterparenting #deepparenting
Manish Sharmaa DEEP Parenting Sandhya Lal Parental Coach Maadhyam
To know more and want to attend workshops on DEEP Parenting
email us at parentalcoach.sandhyalal@gmail.com
The Tale of a Child, a Bicycle, and a Rooster’s Comical Journey
In a quaint village where the air buzzed with the thrill of endless possibilities, a spirited child embarked on an amusing adventure. Blissfully unaware of the conventional boundaries that confined the minds of others, this daring youngster set out to create a spectacle that would leave the village in stitches â placing a rooster on the bicycle’s passenger seat.
The story unfolds in a world unburdened by skepticism, where the absence of cynics allowed creativity to flourish. Armed with boundless enthusiasm and an unwavering belief in the whimsical, the child approached the peculiar task.Undaunted by the sheer absurdity of the mission, the child began the delightful experiment by introducing the rooster to the comfortable perch of the bicycle’s passenger seat. Through a series of comical encounters and mishaps, the unlikely pair developed a peculiar camaraderie.
As the child nurtured the rooster’s newfound appreciation for the bicycle’s passenger seat, the village found themselves charmed by the sheer absurdity of the scene. Laughter echoed through the air as the rooster sat regally, surveying the surroundings from its peculiar vantage point.The tale of the rooster on the bicycle’s passenger seat becomes a celebration of the child’s imagination and the laughter that can be born from the most unconventional ideas. The village, initially puzzled, soon embraced the hilarity of the situation, realizing that sometimes the most memorable journeys are the ones that defy logic.This story speaks of the joy that emerges when one dares to push the boundaries of the ordinary, creating laughter merriment in a world that sometimes takes itself too seriously.
In a world where limitations are frequently dictated by the perceived boundaries of reality, this story celebrates the magic that unfolds when one dares to dream without restraint. It underscores the importance of fostering an environment where creativity can thrive, unencumbered by the shackles of doubt.Ultimately, the child’s triumph extends beyond the realm of the improbable. It becomes a testament to the limitless potential that resides within each of us, waiting to be unlocked by the key of self-belief. The rooster on the bicycle is not just a whimsical anecdote but a profound lesson in embracing the unknown, defying skepticism, and proving that, indeed, nothing is impossible when one believes in the power of their dreams.
Nurturing Tomorrow: A Guide to Effective Parenting
In the ever-evolving landscape of parenting, the pursuit of effective strategies becomes more crucial than ever. As parents, we aspire to provide a nurturing environment that fosters growth, resilience, and happiness for our children. Let’s explore some key principles and practical tips for effective parenting.
1.Communication is Key: Effective parenting begins with open and honest communication. Create a safe space where your child feels comfortable expressing thoughts and feelings. Listen actively, validate their emotions, and engage in meaningful conversations to build a strong parent-child bond.
2.Set Clear Boundaries: Establishing clear and consistent boundaries helps children understand expectations and develop a sense of security. Balance between being firm and flexible, providing a framework that guides behavior while allowing room for exploration and growth.
3.Lead by Example: Children learn by observing. Be a positive role model by demonstrating the values and behaviors you wish to instill in them. Show kindness, empathy, resilience, and a commitment to continuous learning. Your actions speak louder than words.
4.Encourage Independence: Foster independence by allowing age-appropriate decision-making. Encourage them to take on responsibilities and learn from their experiences. This not only builds confidence but also teaches valuable life skills.
5.Quality Time Over Quantity: In our busy lives, it’s essential to prioritize quality time with your child. Create special moments for bonding, whether it’s through shared activities, family outings, or simply spending time together. These moments create lasting memories and strengthen your connection.
6.Embrace Positive Discipline: Discipline is about teaching, not punishing. Focus on positive reinforcement, guiding your child towards making better choices. Encourage problem-solving and emphasize the consequences of actions, fostering a sense of responsibility.
7.Stay Informed and Adaptable: Parenting evolves as children grow. Stay informed about their developmental stages, educational needs, and emotional well-being. Be adaptable in your parenting approach, recognizing that what works for one child may not work for another.
8.Promote a Love for Learning: Cultivate a love for learning by making education enjoyable. Support their curiosity, explore diverse interests, and create a learning-friendly environment at home. Show enthusiasm for their achievements and encourage a growth mindset.
Effective parenting is a continuous journey of learning, adapting, and embracing the unique qualities of each child. By fostering open communication, setting boundaries, leading by example, and promoting a love for learning, we can create a foundation for our children to thrive emotionally, socially, and academically. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach, so be patient, stay engaged, and enjoy the rewarding experience of guiding your child towards a bright and fulfilling future.
Maintaining Harmony at Home
Do Daily Struggles Affect Our Home Life?
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s not uncommon for our patience levels to dwindle by evening. We find ourselves venting anger and frustration at home, even over trivial matters involving our loved ones. But why does this happen? Could it be linked to our daily commute or work-related stress?
The Toll of Daily Commutes
Long commutes to work can sap our energy and patience. It’s possible that we haven’t achieved our work targets, faced criticism from superiors, or dealt with underperforming subordinates. Perhaps it’s the pressure of unfulfilled business ideas or arguments with fellow commuters. Whatever the reason, should our family members bear the brunt of our negative emotions? Should our relationships suffer due to a bad day at the office or a stressful business meeting?
A Cobbler’s Wisdom
Consider the story of a humble cobbler. Every evening, before entering his home, he would hammer a nail into the wall. Intrigued, someone asked him why he did this. The cobbler explained that his job wasn’t highly esteemed, and he often felt upset or angry. He didn’t want to bring these negative emotions home. When he walked through the door, he wanted to be greeted by the happiness of his children and spouse. He believed he deserved that moment of joy at home. So, he hammered that nail daily, leaving his anger and irritation outside.
Lessons for All
This simple tale imparts valuable lessons. We all experience stress and anxiety from time to time, but should our families suffer alongside us? Surely, we all desire happy and healthy households. That’s why we propose a metaphorical “nail in the wall” for everyone.
Preserve Happiness at Home
Let your home be a sanctuary of joy and tranquility. As you approach your door, leave the baggage of the day’s frustrations outside. Maintain a happy and healthy family by ensuring that your loved ones don’t bear the weight of your daily struggles.
In conclusion, by metaphorically hammering a nail in the wall before entering your home, you can keep negativity at bay and preserve the happiness and well-being of your family. A happy family is a healthy family, and this small act can make a big difference in your daily life.
Teach your children kindness when interacting with neurodivergent kids.
âLearning to stand in somebody elseâs shoes, to see through their eyes, thatâs how peace begins. And itâs up to you to make that happen. Empathy is a quality of character that can change the world.â Quote by Barack Obama.
Empathy is a key ingredient in positive friendships and relationships. It reduces conflict and misunderstandings and leads to helping Behaviour, kindness, and even greater success in life in general.
We all have been taught to be kind and compassionate for one and all but are we really implementing it? There are several questions that hits my mind when I see children now a days not being empathetic towards neurodivergent kids. Is it because of lack of understanding, lack of compassion or fear. I realize it is our responsibility to teach our younger ones how to be kind and understanding towards other kids with disabilities or disorders.
Child learn what they see. Letâs pledge to teach our kids kindness and compassion for kids with special needs. Below I have mentioned a few strategies to teach our kids empathy towards neurodivergent kids: –
- Preach what you teach- Sometimes unknowingly we use abusive words in front of our children ignoring the fact that Children are like sponges soaking up all that they see, hear, read and feel around them. Instead display the act of kindness choose your words correctly, avoid labelling any human on the basis of their disabilities or disorder.
- Monitor and educate- Since this generation is too much tech savvy there are several mediums of media that they follow, all we need is to ensure they must listen to positive messaging. Read stories with moral values of kindness, empathy and positivity.
- Duty and responsibility towards society- On Birthdays and other special days encourage them to visit orphanage, old age home or any community service centers. Where they will learn the act of kindness.
- Stop name calling and labelling- It is never appropriate to label anyone on the basis of their body, colour, religion or cast. We need to ensure not to do same in front of our children and correct them when observed doing same.
- Praise their empathetic Behaviour- As many times your child showing act of kindness and empathetic Behaviour do not miss a chance to acknowledge and appreciate them. This may encourage such acts in future as well.
Counsel your child often and encourage them doing community work. Raising children and instilling good ethical, mental, personal and physical attitudes in children is necessary and so is finding some inspiration to excel at this incredibly difficult task in the best possible way, to swap lows with highs. This selfless, unconditional love and nurturing is what turns a bud into a blossoming flower.
Help your child do better in studies.
Help your child do better in studies
Educationists always wonder about the percentage of the pupils who are not regular in their work and often miss homework. There is no magic wand that can be used by either the parents or the teachers. So what is it that creates such a huge gap between performers and non performers even though there is not much difference in the potential of both the categories?
The answer is motivation, discipline and punctuality. Helping your child to excel in studies doesnât need complicated theories or deluxe teaching aids. All it requires is a structure and conscious adherence to it on the part of both the parents and the children.Â
- Be an involved parent and cultivate trust with your child-Â When it comes to studies, teachers opine that the involved parents are like the backbone providing support to the children. When children understand that their parentsâ value education, it conditions their mind to follow that path.Â
     Children who trust their parents and enjoy good relationships with them have more confidence and are able to succeed.
- Be a role model-Â Children learn and imitate behaviors by observing and listening. They do what they âseeâ, not what they are âtoldâ. If parents model good reading habits and culture at home, children are surely going to follow.
- Help your children cultivate self-discipline- When children are exposed to following routines and instructions, they are more aware and open to cultivate self discipline.
- Create a schedule- Creating a schedule is like providing a structure, setting the boundaries and expectations before the mind goes stray. Whatever the age, a child should be involved in the making of the schedule and it should be realistic.
- Regular monitoring- Monitoring will keep the parent and child in loop about the homework, revisions and new learnings.
-  Avoid absenteeism– A child is not burdened with pending assignments and submissions if he/she is regular to school and punctual in homework. By following this they get ample rest and play time.
- Praise the effort- Celebrate all aspects of school achievements and efforts equally. When the parent is involved in studies, they understand the childâs effort in each step. Do not wait for the year end result. Award the efforts which in turn motivates the child to continue the efforts and achieve desired success at the end of the year.
- Talk beyond the books– Study time need not be restricted to books and school work only. Engage your children in conversations pertaining to books, Movies, TV Programs, current affairs etc. It broadens their outlook and elevates self confidence. Knowledge is power.
- Â Attend parent teacher meetings- Make it a priority to attend all meetings and discuss your wardâs studies, activities and areas of improvement.
- Â Spend time with your children- Consciously spend quality time with your children.Â
- Have meals with them.
- Have one on one time with them, without any gadgets or other distraction.
- Talk about and get involved in their interests and activities.Â
- Have positive talk about teachers and school authorities-Â Express respect, confidence and trust in school teachers and the administration. Talk about them in a positive tone. Children look up to their teachers with respect and admiration which encourages them to perform well . If you have any concerns, use your wisdom whether to discuss it in front of the child or it can be avoided.
- I hope this article helps in providing a structure and flow to both the parents as well as children and they achieve their full potential.              ‘ Either you run the day, or the day runs you’ —– Jim Rohan
Author
Meenakshi Agrawal
Follow on Instagram @parentingwithmeenakshi
Lets support our kid’s to know their resources!
How to balance work and parenting
How to balance work and parenting
A healthy work-life balance is good for your children, your family relationships and you. When you become a parent it brings along a lot of responsibilities. Now a days both the parents are working. And parenting itself is a full- time job. It becomes difficult sometimes for the new parents to adjust and adapt the new job of parenting. Working parents have the pressure to be perfect at work and also as a parent and spouse. Sometimes they feel overworked, stressed and low. Parenting is not easy. But you can make it easier by following these tips: –
- Take time and evaluate-
Take your time and understand how different parts of life are impacting one another and what necessary steps you need to take in order to balance your life happily.
- Time efficiency-
Donât be distracted by work responsibility and child responsibility. When at work be efficient with your work and donât stay away from home for overtime. Likewise at home spend quality time with your child avoiding cell phones and other work distractions.
- Plan your weekly schedule-
Scheduling your time helps you to complete your task more efficiently. Map your parenting time with kidâs activities.
- Have time for yourself-
Food and sleep are the basic requirements which need to be fulfilled. Eat well and get enough sleep to be healthy and active to manage everything.
- Let go the guilt-
There are some good days and bad days. May be in some important milestone of your child you may not be there to support and cheer them. Donât ever have the guilt of it rather than think about the support you are giving to your family.
- Organizing at night-
Get all the necessary things like, arranging bags, clothes to be worn, groceries required in the morning etc. ready at night itself. It will make morning easier.
- Share responsibilities-
Share your daily responsibilities or household chores youâre your partner or other family members. Co-ordinate your schedules and child care arrangements, and divide up household chores.
- Work place support-
Be open with your employer about your parenting. Talk in advance about the leaves and childcare policies at your organization. Have an honest relationship with your employer.
- Dinner table rules-
This should be the time when the whole family sits together. Make sure you donât watch TV and mobile phone should also be kept away at this time. Talk about your day and share things with kids too.
When you have a good work-life balance, youâre more likely to have the mental and emotional energy to give your children the loving attention they need to develop, learn and thrive.
There is no such thing as perfect parenting so just be the real one. â Sue Atkins