On the Coast – Families Issue 92 | February / March 18 | Page 7

We are Australia’s leading sport program for 1.5–6 year olds! • Over 50 locations across NSW • Small class sizes • FREE trial available Ignite your child’s passion for sport and exercise It is so much easier to deal Franchise opportunities available readysteadygokids.com.au 1300 766 892 with problems as they arise if you have done the preparation, instead of hoping it doesn’t get worse. Talk openly and honestly with your child about how you feel – such as: “I’m tired of telling you this over and over again, it makes me feel...” Then add a situation where they were cross with a friend or sibling, that way you can remind them how they felt and link it into how you are feeling. Children need to be taught how their behaviour affects others, be it with friends or family. “I’m angry with you because.” Phrases like these teach your child about empathy and immediately takes the emotional charge out of your frustration. You are being a good role model for your child; it is ok to say ‘sorry’ I lost my temper and shouted. Swallowing your anger is an unhealthy response as it turns inwards and makes you feel unhappy, helpless, stuck, depressed and generally out of control of your life. Identifying that you are getting angry is the first step, and then you need to manage the feeling. Reading articles or books on parenting is always helpful, BUT unfortunately when you are in the middle of a crisis with the kids it’s hard to remember what the book said. Up to date research from the UK and USA tells us that parents can manage these difficult situations if they have discussed before how to manage them. Clearly you can’t practice a response to ALL the situations your children will put you in, but there are things that help. Laura Kiln has moved to the Central Coast from the UK where she worked in London at the Institute of Psychiatry and the National Specialist Centre for Child and Adolescent Mental Health. She has over 20 years experience of working with families and is internationally recognised as an expert in the field of Parenting. She has four children herself and is used to the dramas of family life. Her practice ‘Laura’s Place’, is open for self or GP referral. Tel: [phone] www.laurasplace.com.au. Laura has appeared on Channel 9 TODAY show as a parenting expert. Australia’s only indoor adrenaline pumping drift karting arena 35 Ace Crescent Tuggerah Ph 4351 5929 [email protected] 30 Renwick Street, Wyoming Phone: [phone] Vasectomies are a permanent and very effective way to stop unwanted pregnancies. They are performed under local anaesthetic and have a quick recovery time. For more information regarding the procedure, fees or any other issues of concern please visit our website or contact our friendly staff. IS YOUR FAMILY COMPLETE? Have you thought of your options? Have you considered a vasectomy? www.cornerfamilysurgery.com.au Boost literacy skills! ® The I Can Read literacy system arose from research undertaken by Australian educational psychologists, it has now gained global success with over 50,000 students in seven countries. I Can Read centres are total literacy centres, covering all aspects of literacy including: • • • • reading • spelling • vocabulary • comprehension grammar • written composition • public speaking drama • preparation for kindergarten preparation for selective schools Book in for a free assessment at Erina Fair with Clare Egan – MSpeEd (Newcastle) by calling 0438 284 739 ® For excellence in literacy, always consult professionals. Designed and supported by educational psychologists. www.icanreadsystem.com FEBRUARY/MARCH – ISSUE 92 7