What To Do When Peaceful Parenting Doesn’t Work: How To Keep Your Sanity
Understanding the journey of peaceful parenting
Hey mama, are you feeling overwhelmed and frustrated with your peaceful parenting techniques? Trust me, I get it. As a mom of four boys (including a teenager and a toddler), I know how hard it can be to stay calm and patient in the face of tantrums, meltdowns, and all the other challenges that come with raising kids. But just because peaceful parenting isn’t working for you right now doesn’t mean it’s a lost cause. There are steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue and find a solution that works for you and your family.
Adjusting your approach: When peaceful parenting isn’t enough
First of all, it’s important to recognize that peaceful parenting isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. What works for one family may not work for another, especially if you have neurodivergent children or multiple kids with different needs and personalities. So, if you’re feeling like peaceful parenting isn’t working, it could be because it’s not the right fit for your family at this time. That’s okay! It’s important to find what works best for you and your kids, regardless of what anyone else is doing. It can be tempting to throw in the towel and resort to more traditional, authoritarian methods, but there are other options.
That being said, there are a few things you can try if you’re feeling like peaceful parenting isn’t working for you. Here are some tips to help you troubleshoot the issue and find a solution that works for your family:
Reflecting on your expectations
It’s important to remember that peaceful parenting is a journey, not a destination. It’s a process of continuous learning and self-improvement, and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way. With that in mind, it might be helpful to take a step back and reflect on your expectations for peaceful parenting. Are you setting yourself up for failure by expecting perfection? Remember that nobody’s perfect, and it’s okay to give yourself some grace.
Identifying triggers and finding solutions
Sometimes, there are specific triggers that can set off a tantrum or meltdown. It could be something as simple as hunger or fatigue, or it could be something more complex like a sensory issue or a developmental delay. By identifying these triggers, you can take steps to prevent them from occurring in the future. For example, if your child gets cranky when they’re hungry, try packing some snacks for on-the-go. If they have a hard time with sensory overload, try providing some calming tools like a weighted blanket or noise-cancelling headphones.
Seeking support and guidance
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and like you’re not making progress with peaceful parenting, it might be helpful to seek support from others. This could be through a parenting group, a therapist, or even just talking to a trusted friend or family member. Sometimes, just having someone to listen and offer guidance can make a world of difference.
Practicing self-care
As a mom, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of parenting and forget to take care of yourself. But self-care is crucial for your well-being and the well-being of your family. Make sure to prioritize self-care, whether it’s through exercise, meditation, or just taking some time for yourself. By taking care of yourself, you’ll be better able to handle the challenges of peaceful parenting and be a more present and effective parent.
Seeking out resources and education
There are plenty of resources and education out there to help you with peaceful parenting. Whether it’s books, online courses, or local parenting groups, there are plenty of ways to learn more about this approach and get the support you need. Don’t be afraid to seek out these resources and learn from others who have gone through similar challenges.
The role of faith in peaceful parenting
One more thing I want to mention is the role of faith in peaceful parenting. As a mom who is also a follower of the Lord, I’ve found that my faith has been an invaluable source of strength and guidance during the difficult times of parenting. When I’m feeling overwhelmed, or I’m not making progress with peaceful parenting, I turn to the Lord for guidance and strength.
Troubleshooting common challenges with peaceful parenting
Prayer has been a powerful tool for me in finding peace and calm in the midst of chaos. Whether it’s a quick prayer for patience in the face of a tantrum or a longer prayer for wisdom in handling a difficult situation, prayer has been a lifeline for me as a parent. I’ve also found that reading the Bible and meditating on the Word of God has provided me with the perspective and guidance I need to approach parenting with grace and love.
Finding the right fit for your family
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and peaceful parenting isn’t working, I encourage you to turn to the Lord for guidance and strength. You may be surprised at the peace and clarity that comes from seeking Him in your parenting journey.
Remembering to give yourself grace
In conclusion, peaceful parenting isn’t always easy, and it may not work for everyone. But that doesn’t mean you should give up on it entirely. By reflecting on your expectations, identifying any triggers, seeking support, practicing self-care, and seeking out resources and education, you can troubleshoot any issues and find a solution that works for your family. Remember, peaceful parenting is a journey, not a destination, and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way. Keep at it, mama, and you’ll find a way to make it work for you and your family.
