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| Being a Parent |
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“Children! I never thought I’d feel like giving them away!”  Parenting has been described as the Best Job in the World. It has also been described as frustrating, exhausting, disappointing and much more. Of course, being a parent comes with some or all of these feelings. Beginning The arrival of a baby is a time when tiredness can lead to exhaustion. You can help to cope with this by:  Sleeping when the baby sleeps – don’t worry if your house is untidy, or the ironing hasn’t been done. Going with the flow – don’t worry about having a strict routine Getting family or friends to help – for example by watching the baby while you have a bath Enjoying the baby – they are only little for a short time and they can be such fun! Middle and Teenage years Give your child reasonable, firm boundaries - and stick to them. Get out regularly with one or two friends – or just talk on the phone. Remember, if you can, your own experiences as a teenager. This can help you understand the turmoil and changes going on, physically and emotionally, as your child tries to establish his or her own identity. When you or your child is angry, leave the room, and control your Breathing. Arrange to discuss the current problem later. It takes about half an hour to calm down after an upset, so say to yourself “RELAX” or “CALM DOWN”, drop your shoulders and use the WASP technique. Exercise is a great way to relieve tension, so take a brisk walk if you can and practise the R for L exercises regularly.  Useful links The National Childbirth Trust Parentline Plus The Children’s Society NSPCC Homestart |