HealthyLife Articles

Tag: Parenting

  • 6 Ways To Help New Parents

    FAMILY LIFE

    Young couple holding newborn.

    New parents need the support to weather all the challenges & changes. Try these practical ways to help the new parents in your life.

    1.  Drop off freezer meals. A fresh meal is greatly appreciated, but having a stash of freezer meals is extra insurance for future tough days.

    2.  Clean the house. Whether you roll up your sleeves yourself or hire a service, a clean, tidy home can be a big load off a new parent’s mind.

    3.  Help with yard work. Rake, mow, prune, mulch, water, and weed so mom and dad can focus on the baby.

    4.  Hold the baby. Sometimes, all new parents need is someone else to snuggle and comfort the baby while they take a nap.

    5.  Give them a night out. Once the baby is old enough, the greatest gift you can give new parents is a chance to get away on their own and reconnect.

    6.  Provide a listening ear. New parents spend all day engaging with their baby. They need time to relax and chat with adults too!

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Parenting A Teen

    FAMILY LIFE

    Image of mother and daughter talking.

    It’s not easy parenting a teen. Your teen’s brain is still developing until about age 25, according to the National Institutes of Health. These are areas that control judgment, decision making, and impulse control. What’s a frustrated parent to do? NIH News in Health suggests these actions:

    *  Respect your teen’s opinions. Nonjudgmental communication shows your love.

    *  Be honest and direct with your teen when talking about sensitive subjects such as drugs, drinking, smoking, and sex.

    *  Respect your teen’s privacy.

    *  Have meals together.

    *  Help your teen make healthy choices and plan ahead for difficult situations.

    *  Meet and get to know your teen’s friends.

    *  Compliment your teen and celebrate your child’s efforts and accomplishments.

    *  Limit time your teen uses video games, texting, and instant messaging.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Back-To-School Stress Busters

    FAMILY LIFE

    Smiling child with backpack on.

    Going back to school is a big transition for kids. Providing extra support and understanding can ensure a smooth start to the school year and a positive school experience.

    Ease into a daily routine

    A week or two before school starts, gradually establish an appropriate sleep and meal schedule. A tired or hungry child will struggle to manage their feelings. Set them up for success.

    Plan a daily chat time

    It doesn’t have to be long, but set aside ten or fifteen minutes to check in with your child. Ask questions and let them share their thoughts and feelings about their day.

    Make time for play

    Play is how kids relax and make sense of the world around them. Unstructured play should be a non-negotiable part of your child’s day.

    If your child is struggling, it helps to talk to your pediatrician. Your healthcare provider can recommend stress management techniques or address any other needs your child may have.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine