Ahh! Parenting! It is never a dull moment. And definitely not for the faint of heart. Being a parent is filled with joy, confusion, laughter, monotony, surprises, and frustration. So, we decided to ask our Thrive team of therapists to share their favorite parenting tips or recommendations. Come learn a little more about parenting and our therapists.
Abbey Stewart, AMFT: My favorite parenting tip is not usually my most popular: less is more. I mean that parents are quick to believe that if they don’t offer solutions or instant comfort, their child will experience unreasonable distress. I like to support children in finding their inner strengths by increasing their understanding that they can navigate challenges autonomously. If folks have questions, I am happy to expand!
Dr Andrea Seldomridge:
Less is more! Often, seeing kids and teens about to make mistakes can be hard. Instead of stepping in each time, allowing them to make mistakes can be a great way to help them grow, mature, and build confidence.
Less is more! Often, seeing kids and teens about to make mistakes can be hard. Instead of stepping in each time, allowing them to make mistakes can be a great way to help them grow, mature, and build confidence.
Kim Macias, APCC:
I always recommend that parents spend time one-on-one with their children where the child gets to pick the activity. You may be surprised by what they choose! And it’s a great way to show how special they and their interests are to you.
I always recommend that parents spend time one-on-one with their children where the child gets to pick the activity. You may be surprised by what they choose! And it’s a great way to show how special they and their interests are to you.
Jennifer Gonzalez, LMFT:
Although not the only form of communication, words matter. Even when you think that your child is not listening, they are. The best way to teach your child positive behaviors is by role modeling, but you are also human, and you might not get it right every time. You are also learning with your child, so if you notice that your emotions are intensifying and might dictate your reaction, take some space and walk away rather than saying things you may not mean or want to say.
Although not the only form of communication, words matter. Even when you think that your child is not listening, they are. The best way to teach your child positive behaviors is by role modeling, but you are also human, and you might not get it right every time. You are also learning with your child, so if you notice that your emotions are intensifying and might dictate your reaction, take some space and walk away rather than saying things you may not mean or want to say.
Dr Maria Fowlks:
That your child is a whole person with the same feelings we have, but with developing brains and very limited experience with these emotions. So remember your child is having a hard time, not giving you a hard time.
That your child is a whole person with the same feelings we have, but with developing brains and very limited experience with these emotions. So remember your child is having a hard time, not giving you a hard time.
Molly Llamas, AMFT:
Less is more! Parents often feel pulled to make decisions and choices for their children to prevent them from making mistakes or getting hurt. I love experiences where I can work with parents to normalize these worries/ concerns while also empowering them to welcome opportunities to see their children succeed and learn from their mistakes/ choices.
Less is more! Parents often feel pulled to make decisions and choices for their children to prevent them from making mistakes or getting hurt. I love experiences where I can work with parents to normalize these worries/ concerns while also empowering them to welcome opportunities to see their children succeed and learn from their mistakes/ choices.
Ying Ying Shiue, LPCC:
Foster connection and hold your boundaries. While you may think it’s an oxymoron, you can do both by fostering a connection with your kids and holding them accountable.
Foster connection and hold your boundaries. While you may think it’s an oxymoron, you can do both by fostering a connection with your kids and holding them accountable.
Being present in the moment to love and support your child is key. At Thrive, we are here for you. We take a positive, client-centered therapy approach focused on creating a genuine connection with our clients. If you want to talk with one of our therapists about yourself, your child, or your teen about attending therapy, call us at 858-342-1304. We offer in-person and video sessions, and all of us LOVE supporting parents!
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