I really love my kids. There are days, though, when their boundless energy, constant chatter, and loud shrieking through the house just rubs me the wrong way. Even though I am having a bad day, my kids deserve a parent who treats them with gentleness and respect. They don’t need to worry that I’m going to blow my top unexpectedly.
Christi and I have three tricks we use to control our tempers on those rough days.
Tag Team
The other night Christi and I were reading quietly after dinner. We could hear the kid playing in the other room. Normally they play well together. This time, by the sound of it, playing had turned into fighting. After a rough day at work, I felt my temper rising. I knew I was the wrong person to bring peace to the war going on in my son’s bedroom. I looked at Christi, “I don’t think I can deal with that right now. Do you mind taking care of them?”
Without missing a beat, Christi answered, “Sure. Let me finish this paragraph.” A moment later she went back and quietly handled the problem.
I really appreciated her help that night. There are nights when I help her the same way.
Time Out
When they misbehave, I will put my children in ‘Time Out’ to give me a chance to cool down and consider an appropriate response to their poor behavior. When my temper cools, I work out an appropriate punishment with Christi, talk with my child about their poor choices, and help them understand the consequences of their choices.
Decompress
There are times when you just have to get away. I like to decompress at bookstores. Christi likes to soak in the tub with a good book. If Christi needs time to decompress, I explain to the kids that mommy needs some time to relax and instruct them to leave her alone. I run interference for her as long as she needs it. When I decompress, I usually get out of the house and walk around in a bookstore for a couple of hours. Christi is awesome and gives me that time when I need it.
What tricks do you use to avoid blowing up all over your kids? Single moms and dads, I completely respect the burden you bear, how do you do it?
