Self-Care
It is easy for parents to take care of their children and leave their own needs or the needs of their marriage or partnership for another day. But taking care of oneself and one’s primary relationships is part of taking care of one’s children. By supporting one another and by getting the support they need, parents are better able to confront the challenges of raising a family and avoid looking to their children as a means to getting their emotional needs met. Spending some time having fun and regularly checking in with one another or with friends and family will help parents return to their children with energy. By respecting one’s own needs, as well of the needs of others in the family, parents also model their values in relationship.
At times finding support as a parent can be difficult. Ideally, you can find it within your primary relationship, with immediate family, or with friends. But sometimes this is not enough, or you are looking for help concerning those relationships. Meeting with other parents to take classes and workshops or seeking professional help from a psychotherapist can offer additional support.
See also:
Mindful Parenting
Reflective Parenting Workshops
For further reading:
Forum