Monday, March 18, 2019

SEL for Parents

This week, we will focus on letting go. Letting go is not easy for parents. Our fears often get in the way of allowing children to grow through normal developmental stages. Trying to stop a preadolescent from hanging out with friends, or a teenager from talking on the phone too much, is similar to trying to stop a toddler from walking because he/she might hurt him/herself. If our goal is to empower our kids and help them grown, these "Five Steps to Letting Go" can help. Note: Letting go is not something you need to tell your child you are doing. This is a process you can continue to work on in your own quiet moments. 

1. Think of an area where you are having a hard time letting go with one of your kids (an area where you know in your heart you are holding on too tight)
2. What are the issues?
a. Yours (usually your fears)
b. Theirs (usually what they want)
3. Are you willing to let go? There is not point in going on to the next two steps if you are not willing to let go.
4. What is a small step you could take to let go? Be specific.
5. When would you be willing to start your small step of letting go, and how long are you willing to do it even though it may be a little uncomfortable for you?

Dreikur's words can help "A bruised knee can mend, but bruised courage lasts a lifetime"