Parenting stories from Marissa Anastasi: Just being there for the tears, talking about feelings, letting them feel and express what they’re experiencing. What a big world to learn and navigate! Strong legs. I can bounce a grumpy baby for hours! Learning to communicate with my daughter through her tantrums. I can work out what’s wrong instead of getting frustrated with her attitude. I’ve found talking to her quietly and calmly like an adult, she responds better than if I get upset too.
Understand That the Parent-Child Bond Is a Relationship like All Others. “It takes work. Lots of it, so expect that there will be times when it feels hard to connect [with your child] or that you need to work through some issues,” says Kelly and Perren. “Meditation and reflection are really helpful tools for this, as is leaning on your mom friends as all mothers go through this with their kids,” they advise. “Sometimes, although you have it in you, you just need a little guidance to get back on track,” the founders add. Expect that there will be times when it feels hard to connect [with your child] or that you need to work through some issues.
Talk to them as if they are intelligent individuals. Talk to your children as if they are intelligent individuals. Don’t talk down to them. Ask their opinion on things. “Should we take Fido on our vacation with us or do you think he would be happier staying with grandma?” Make major purchases such as cars, homes and major appliances family decisions instead of just adult decisions. Encourage your children to offer input regarding family situations and ASK their opinion. When they give it to you, even if it sounds juvenile to you, don’t discount it, seriously consider it, ask questions and find the value in it. It is their opinion and input, there is always value in it. Read more info on Parenting blog.
My biggest challenge apart from sleep deprivation, is learning to trust myself. I may not always get it right but there is power in accepting that and allowing my children to see that we are human too. We can teach them values by being vulnerable in our humanity. Kids just need love and time with you. The rest will come. You absolutely lose yourself and you give your everything to your child.
Hey, my name is Marissa and I’m a mummy to 4. I’m 34 years old and live in the sunny Mediterranean island, Cyprus. Larnaca to be precise!. You can read more about me and a brief description of my journey so far on my introduction blog. 2020 is when I officially started blogging. I remember up until I met my husband at 16, I always used to write a daily diary of my day, my feelings and just whatever came to mind. Starting to write again is nice but at the same time, a little out my comfort zone knowing that people might read it! Since moving to Cyprus, I have pushed myself and have been given the confidence by my family into things I have never tried before but always wanted to do. Thanks for joining me on my journey and I hope you enjoy the blogs. Explore a few more details on www.marissaanastasi.com.