Five Quick Tips for Managing Parental Stress Virginia Cooperative Extension

What stresses you?

Stress is a human reaction to change

What stresses you? Too much input (technology, texting, phone) Other people (children, mates, parents) Money (never enough) Schedule too packed Ongoing crisis Sudden crisis Other

Video scene – A typical day? One Fine Day http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9SZO5lkYGk Watch and discuss sources of stress (take notes if you like!)

Tip One Understand How Stress Works

Tip One Take Care of Yourself

How to Manage You can modify or change the stressor or your situation Change your perception of stressor Accept some things Look for the positives (the blessings) Practice forgiving self and others Seek resources or support Comfort place to be alone Talk through your feelings with someone Take care of yourself Exercise, movement, stretching good nutrition for energy

Tip Two – Money and Shopping Prepare before you leave the house List Expectations to children Well fed, well rested Hand toys, snacks Prepare before you leave the car Reminders Giving a job Tactile (Broccoli) Finding items in store, noting colors Worst case scenario Leave store, and cart

Tip Three – Getting out the Door Bedtime routine the night before Prepare the night before Laying out clothes, packing lunches List on door (concrete visual) Alarms, starting a bit earlier PJs to school

Tip Four - Take 10 to save Twenty Spend at least 10 minutes with your children right after you get home. They have missed you Spend the time on an activity that they choose Get down on the floor with them, and give them all of your attention. http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/fcs/Wellness/PricelessParenting.pdf

Tip Five – Having a Support System Whether you are a new parent or a caregiver of your parents, have a support system Call on friends, family, religious organizations Get help with your roles as caregiver, manager of finances, chauffeur Don’t be a martyr, seek support!

Questions Referrals for parents who may need a little extra support What additional information may be helpful?