Try not to impose consequences when you are angry. It is OK to tell your child that you need time to calm down or think about something before responding to your child. I remember not too long ago I set myself on the stairs and shut the door. The kids opened the door and asked, “What are you doing?” I responded, “I need to be on the stairs because I don’t have a happy heart.” Then, under my breath as they shut the door I said, “Check back in about a week.” It wasn’t a good day. You’re going to have those days. I never knew how incredibly frustrated I would become with my kids. Nothing like having children to bring out all the ugliness you were hoping wasn’t really there. It’s fine to tell children you are really angry and then remove yourself to gain control. It’s actually great modeling for them to deal with moments where they feel angry too. I tell my kids, it’s OK to feel angry, but it’s important to respond to that anger correctly. You’ll need to model exactly that. It is important to learn to apologize when you don’t handle the situation in the most ideal way.
Oh my goodness, Jodi! Are you living in my house this morning?! I just “lost my cool” with my kiddos and then realized what I had done and apologized for yelling and said, “Mommy, needs a time out.” I quickly prayed and regained my composure. I am getting a hair cut tonight and think I need to pair it with coffee alone.
Time out for Mommy!
I’m so comforted to know that other good moms do it too. Thanks so much!
I’m new to your blog & I am loving all your posts! Especially this one…it’s nice to know other people have bad days like I do. If only I had read it earlier today before responding horribly to my kids. O-well, tomorrow is another day, right?
Tomorrow is always another day. I’m always encouraged by other parents who have “those days” too. I’m so glad you are enjoying the blog. I’ve been so humbled by my parenting experience, and I have just wanted to pass on some wisdom and inspiration that I’ve been given along the road. Thanks for taking an interest.