Parenting with patience

Parenting can be difficult at the best of times, let alone if you’re parenting a spirited child. On Friday, January 18, author Judy Arnall held a presentation titled, “Parenting with Patience” based on her book. Arnall provided an interactive and welcoming experience for all those in attendance. The multi-media approach to the event allowed attendees to learn through PowerPoint, images, charts, and lecture which allowed for a well-rounded education.

Judy Arnall believes that, “To create a healthy relationship between discipline and trust is understanding the brain and cognitive development of your child. This is where most parents overestimate their children’s capabilities. I have five children of my own, three of which were quite spirited. I accumulated tips and tricks that helped me and could potentially help others. If I had to give one piece of advice to a new parent, it would be to take your own time out when you need it.”

Understanding how a child’s personality develops over time is a crucial tool to have as a parent. If a parent can understand how their child’s mind works, they can reason and work with the child to better navigate the rocky waters of parenting.

When asked about how the course will affect her parenting, Tegan Davidson said, “I think the course gave me different strategies on how to deal with my children when they are misbehaving. It has also made me rethink some of my disciplinary tactics. Since the presentation, I have already found that my parenting has changed. I try to take a second to calm myself down before I discipline my son. I also try to think more about what I’m saying and how I can make things into a teaching moment for him.”

Parenting is often a ‘learn as you go’ situation and, as parents, we often don’t have the answers we are seeking. Judy Arnall said, “You won’t have all the answers; sometimes you just have to wing it to figure out what works for you. Negotiation is your friend. Give your children choices so they feel as if they have more control in a situation.”

Your child craves the ability to be heard and understood. As parents, it is easy to get caught up in the fact that your two-year-old took a sharpie to your bedframe. Understanding that impulse control isn’t developed until the age of six can adjust how you react to the situation. Your child does not know better, yet. By demonstrating patience and understanding, he or she will get there.

In case no-one told you today… don’t forget to breathe. You are doing a fantastic job. There is no manual on how to parent. We are all out here winging it. The mother who is struggling with groceries and her children might need help. You can always offer but don’t take it personally if she tells you, “I’ve got this.” Sometimes we need help, and sometimes help could escalate the situation. Don’t be afraid to ask for help; it doesn’t make you less of a parent.

You can purchase Parenting with Patience online at amazon.ca and google.ca. I would highly recommend this book to any parent no matter the situation. Happy parenting.