Our children are missing out on so much at the minute. Not only are their studies taking a knock because the schools are closed, they are also being denied all the fun that being in school entails; sports, hanging out with friends and the butterflies when they pass their ‘crush’ in the corridor.
This Valentine’s Day they are also potentially missing out on the excitement of sending and receiving their anonymous messages of “true love.”
Whilst it is important – now more than ever – to show our children how much we love and appreciate them, perhaps the best Valentine’s gift we can give them, is teaching the art of self love.
“To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.”
~~~ Oscar Wilde ~~~
Now, self-love isn’t just about giving yourself a bubble bath when you’re stressed, or winding down in front of a good movie. Self-love is all about what you are saying to yourself. Self-love is treating yourself with kindness and compassion.
What we say to ourselves really matters.
“You aren’t being selfish when you stop and recharge.”
“You are more than enough just the way you are.”
“Not knowing what’s happening next doesn’t mean you are a failure.”
Kids feel under so much pressure to perform at their best all the time. Sometimes it’s just okay to get off the merry-go-round of achievement and success and just BE.
A parent is their child’s role model. So whilst children, of whatever age, might listen to your words of encouragement, they are more likely to observe and mirror your own behaviour.
When was the last time you allowed yourself to slow down and recharge your own batteries? To have that bubble bath or light a candle and read a good book? You need to teach your child that it’s okay to fill up your own cup, even if it’s having a kitchen disco!
So remember, what we say to others is so important; but what we say to ourselves matters more.
Happy Valentines 💝
This comes, as always with Much Love 💕
Bringing Families Together – By Parenting Less 💞
