When you’re caregiving for children, one of the most important things to do is stay positive.
Why? Because where a child learns is almost just as important as what they learn.
Children need safe and positive environments to develop and thrive. It’s what helps them to stay emotionally and mentally healthy.
In fact, children can sense when you’re upset, anxious, or annoyed. And if they link your negativity to being a result of having to care for them, it can cause extreme emotional distress. Which means, that being negative may not only stunt child development but also have inverse negative effects.
So, here are some easy tricks to keep you in a positive frame of mind as your caregiver for your child.
What are some tricks you can use to keep positive?
Take deep breaths
It’s strange to think, but most of us actually breathe wrong. As we get older, we start to breathe through our chest. But, the best way to breath is actually from our bellies. Chest breathing is really meant for fight or flight scenarios, which induces anxiety and stress.
If you find yourself feeling nervous for no reason, take a moment to check your breathing control. Place one hand on your stomach and watch to make sure you’re breathing through your belly.
We want nice deeps breaths.
Remember why you’re caregiving
Sometimes we can get a little negative about our lives when we get stuck in the routine of things. Which is why it’s important to take a few moments every now and then to remember why you’re doing what you’re doing.
Remember: caring for someone else is extraordinary work. And if you’re caring for a child, you’re doing something wonderful that deserves so much respect and gratitude.
You are a savior.
Connect with other caregivers
Sometimes staying positive is just a matter of having someone with whom to speak what’s on your mind. Sometimes, you just need someone to hear you out and relate.
If you think this could help you, try connecting with other caregivers.
You can do this by joining caregiving groups or organizations. Places like these are great because they give you somewhere to turn when you’re stressed out about a caregiving struggle. They give you a safe space to bounce ideas around and learn. And, they give you an outlet to socialize and meet people traveling the same journey as you.
Having a support group can really make a huge impact on your attitude.
What if the tricks aren’t working?
If you’re still finding yourself in a negative headspace, the next best thing is to get some extra help to distribute the responsibility.
It’s hard going at things alone. Especially when that thing involves long hours and extensive attention. That’s why, we highly recommend hiring a professional caregiver.
Having a professional caregiver come to your home can be a lifesaver, both for you and your child. Because, a professional caregiver will give you the time you need to relax and rejuvenate.
Which in turn, allows you to go back to your child with even more energy and joy than before.
