As we’re waiting for the spring thaw, the dark days of winter can take their toll on our patience. Cold temperatures and the decrease in natural sunlight not only limit playtime options, but can also zap the energy and tolerance level of parents.
The Children’s Regional Hospital at Cooper offers parents these ideas to help deal with the winter doldrums:
- Drinking hot chocolateMake plans to spend time alone with your young children or teens doing something they enjoy.
- Mark family game nights on your calendar so the entire family can be together. Put a different family member’s name under each date and have that person choose which game will be played that evening.
- When your children are angry, argumentative or in a bad mood, give them a hug, cuddle, pat, secret sign, or other gesture of affection that your children favor, and talk with them about their feelings.
- Encourage your children to cook with you. Let them get involved in the entire process, from planning the menus to shopping for ingredients to the actual food preparation and serving. It’s a good way to familiarize your children with good food choices and another way to have fun together.
- Don’t forget to say “I love you” to your children, no matter what their age.