Silver and Gold Magazine Spring 2019 | Page 27

1. In a calm manner, say “I hear you, but I think we need to take a few deep breaths before talking this through.” 2. Hug your child. Affection always goes a long way (and not just for children). 3. Some children need a bit of time to “cry it out” before they can “sort it out”. Have your child sit on the couch and cry into a pillow (at this point you can rub their back) for two minutes, while you sit nearby (where they can see you is best). Then promptly return to talk with them. Remember a few key points: • YOU are your child’s most important person. They shouldn’t fear you (you want them to grow up knowing they can ALWAYS come to you!) • Crying is okay. Crying is good. Crying releases pressure and stress. There’s nothing wrong with crying and letting one’s feelings out. • When you’re both ready to talk, keep explanations simple. You don’t have to resolve everything in one sitting. This is the same for every single relationship we have with others. If at this point your child is not listening, not attentive to your words and body language, and throwing a fit, then: 92% of children say they would rather spend time with FRIENDS than watching TV. Research shows that simply having a phone or other device within your line of sight can negatively impact your experience of the quality of your interactions with others. Canadian children spend less than 20 minutes per day reading books. The average parent spends 2.2 hours a day with their children. 25% of INFANTS have televisions in their bedroom. • Don’t send your child away – to their room, a corner, the bathroom, etc. To be away from you, is punishment for a child. MAKE THE TIME. Work it out. • Halton Waldorf School Inspired Learning SM Celebrating over 30 years as an accredited, independent, non-profit school. • Early Childhood • Grades 1-8 • High School With an experiential approach to learning, and curriculum that integrates the arts, music and movement into daily practice, we create opportunities for students to engage in their own learning. OPEN HOUSE: Saturday, March 2nd ~ 10am-1pm Saturday, April 27th ~ 10am-1pm 905.331.4387 2193 Orchard Road, Burlington www.haltonwaldorf.com A non-profit organization. Established 1984. Silver & Gold Magazine ~ SPRING 2019 Lots more online: www.kidsnaturally.ca 27 27