Namita Das's Blog, page 50

How Positive Affirmations Help Me and My Son

Parenting, an inherently demanding journey, often presents challenges that overwhelm us, especially in today’s uncertain times. Amid the chaos, finding equilibrium and resilience becomes paramount. As I navigate this path, I find inspiration from an unexpected source—my son.

My child, a beacon of positivity, embodies qualities I admire. He effortlessly tackles challenges, exuding confidence and humour. His secret? Positive affirmations. His daily mantras like “I am awesome” or “I am a superhero” resonate with conviction, reflecting his unwavering self-belief.

Witnessing this, I realized the potential of affirmations for children and adults. These powerful statements foster self-esteem, emotional resilience, and problem-solving skills, shielding against stress and negativity. Intrigued, I incorporated affirmations into our routine, witnessing transformative results.

Here are effective strategies I’ve discovered for utilizing affirmations:

Crafting Empowering Affirmations: Tailor affirmations that resonate with reality and empowerment, such as “I am brave and capable of facing fears.”Consistent Practice: Repetition is key. Recite affirmations daily, preferably in front of a mirror, reinforcing confidence. Writing them down or using creative methods enhances engagement.Lead by Example: Model positive self-talk for your child. Show resilience in the face of challenges and openly share affirmations for personal growth.Encouragement and Support: Celebrate your child’s efforts and strengths, avoiding comparisons or harsh criticism. Validate their emotions and help reframe negative beliefs.

Since incorporating affirmations, our lives have undergone a positive shift. I feel more capable of navigating challenges and fostering a deeper connection with my son. He, in turn, feels supported and cherished, enhancing our collective happiness and optimism.

Resources like books and affirmation cards can benefit those interested in integrating affirmations into their routine. If you want to try them with your child, download a free printable PDF with affirmations for kids. Also, here are some recommended products:

I Am, I Can: 365 affirmations for kids (Mindfulness for Kids) A-Z Affirmation & Wellness Book for Kids (Age: 5 to 12 years) Happy Heads Positive Affirmation Cards for Kids

These resources facilitate engaging activities, making affirmations an enjoyable part of your child’s routine.

I invite you to share your experiences and thoughts on positive affirmations in the comments below. Let’s build a supportive community and embrace the transformative power of affirmations together.

For personalized guidance on nurturing your child’s skills or enhancing mental wellness, please contact me at namita@educateable.in or click here to book a consultation. Also, subscribe for updates on forthcoming sessions and workshops.

Together, let’s empower ourselves and our children through the profound impact of positive affirmations. Thank you for reading!

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Can We Expect Our Kids to Behave?

Being both a parent and a child development consultant, one of the most common questions I encounter is whether we can expect our children to behave. The simple answer is yes, but it’s not relatively that straightforward.

Children are not automatons programmed to obey our every command. They’re unique individuals with personalities, emotions, needs, and preferences. They’re on a constant journey of learning and growth, occasionally stumbling, just like adults.

So, what exactly do we mean by expecting our kids to behave? Is it an expectation that they unfailingly heed our instructions, never cause trouble, refrain from tears, whining, or tantrums, and remain constantly cheerful and cooperative? If so, this expectation sets us up for disappointment and frustration. Imperfection is a part of being human for both kids and adults alike.

Instead of aspiring for perfection, we should adjust our expectations based on their age, developmental stage, and circumstances. We should acknowledge that they’re children, not miniature adults. It’s reasonable to expect them to have emotions, opinions, and preferences and to express them appropriately. We should encourage them to learn from their experiences and grow with time.

Simultaneously, we must recognize that they will face challenges and may need our guidance and support. They’ll have bad days, fluctuating moods, and behaviours requiring patience and empathy. Understanding their humanity is essential.

Can we expect our kids to behave then? Certainly, but with an understanding that they’re not immune to age-related challenges, mood swings, hunger, fatigue, boredom, excitement, stress, or simply being human – in other words, as long as they’re not kids.

However, this is the beauty of parenting: embracing our children for who they are, not who we want them to be. It’s about celebrating their strengths, assisting them in overcoming weaknesses, enjoying their company, and being there for their journey.

Gratitude arises even amidst their occasional misbehaviour.

If you’re seeking resources to navigate the complexities of raising children, here are some recommendations:

For teens aspiring to cultivate positive habits and skills, explore 7 HABITS OF HIGHLY EFFECTIVE TEENAGERS by Sean Covey.Positive Discipline for Teenagers, Revised 3rd Edition by Jane Nelsen and Lynn Lott is ideal for parents aiming to improve communication and foster mutual respect with their teens.What’s Happening To Me?: The Classic Illustrated Children’s Book on Puberty by Peter Mayle is an informative guide for kids curious about bodily changes.Amazing You!: Getting Smart About Your Private Parts by Gail Saltz and Lynne Avril Cravath is a valuable resource for younger children learning about their bodies.

These books offer engaging and informative content.

For personalized guidance on mental wellness, parenting, or nurturing your child’s skills, contact me at namita@educateable.in or schedule a consultation with me. Subscribe for updates on forthcoming sessions and workshops.

May your parenting journey be enriching and rewarding! Feel free to share these insights with others who may benefit from them.

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Celebrating Uniqueness: ‘Am I Your Favorite?’ Book Review

Embark on a delightful journey through “Am I Your Favorite?” – a heartwarming exploration of every child’s curiosity about where they stand in their family’s affection. Gretchen Kadillak weaves an enchanting narrative filled with playful and rhythmic rhymes that effortlessly captivate young readers and the young at heart. This book is a treasure trove of joy, perfect for shared readings that bring smiles and laughter.

Complemented by Susan Crum’s vibrant illustrations, the book comes alive with bursts of colour and endearing characters. The adorable little dog, cherished by the mom, adds charm to the already captivating visuals. Each page turn reveals a beautiful world in which children will eagerly immerse themselves, enhancing the reading experience.

At its core, “Am I Your Favorite?” carries a poignant and reassuring message: every child holds a unique place in their family’s heart. It beautifully emphasizes the importance of individuality and the unconditional love surrounding each family member. Kadillak masterfully encapsulates this sentiment, making it a touching and meaningful read for children and adults alike.

This book transcends a story; it’s a snuggle of a mother’s infinite love, making it an excellent choice for anyone who hopes to share a heartwarming and delightful narrative with their adorable little ones. “Am I Your Favorite?” is a timeless addition to any bookshelf, promising precious moments and valuable lessons with each reading session.

Click here to check out – Am I Your Favorite?

Parenting Expectations: The Struggle Is Real

Parenting comes with expectations we often hold for our children, rooted in the desire for them to be well-behaved and happy individuals. However, the daily reality might feel like an uphill battle, replete with tantrums and chaos, leaving us questioning our abilities. But here’s the truth: this struggle is universal, shared by many parents. It’s crucial to recognize that our children are still learning; as parents, we are continually growing too.

Here are valuable strategies I’ve discovered to bridge the gap between expectations and reality while acknowledging the challenges:

Realistic Expectations: Rather than expecting adult-like behaviour, we must tailor expectations to our children’s developmental stages. Emphasize their strengths and progress. Consider resources like The Whole-Brain Child, which delves into nurturing emotional, social, and intellectual growth.Flexibility: Rigid rules might not suit your child’s unique needs. Embrace adaptability and encourage creativity and problem-solving. Toys like Magna-Tiles stimulate creativity, imagination, and critical thinking.Empathy: Listen to your child, validate their feelings, and strive to understand their perspective. Tools like The Feelings Game assist children in expressing and managing their emotions effectively.Positivity: Focus on positives, celebrate efforts, and avoid dwelling on negatives. The Happy Journal encourages acknowledging daily moments of joy and gratitude.Support System: Seek advice and join communities with shared experiences. Platforms like Parents.com offer invaluable tips and support for parents navigating various stages of parenthood.

Parenting is challenging yet immensely rewarding. Embrace your children for who they are, unconditionally guiding them toward becoming confident individuals. Remember, the key is to balance expectations with acceptance.

For personalized support on mental wellness, parenting, or nurturing your child’s skills, contact me at namita@educateable.in or book a consultation with me. Subscribe for updates on upcoming sessions and workshops.

May your parenting journey be a fulfilling one! Feel free to share these tips with others who might find them beneficial.

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Unicorns In The City – Exploring Mysteries, Humor, and Eco-Conscious Thrills: A Review

Unicorns In The City – Suspense and Mystery: An Ecothriller by Deepti L. Sharma is an enthralling journey through a tapestry of suspense and intrigue that captivates readers from start to finish. Within this engaging narrative, the author constructs a vivid realm of urban enigmas, eccentric characters, and poignant environmental issues that provoke contemplation.

At the heart of the tale lies Mrs Karishma Singh, a resident of Mumbai, whose world is rattled when her daughter Gullu’s closest companion becomes a witness to a shocking murder. Despite Gullu’s silence regarding the victim and the perpetrator, citing it as her friend’s secret, Mrs Singh joins the spirited Veera Shivaraman, a toxicologist and amateur sleuth, to unravel the mystery. Their path is strewn with a colourful array of suspects, from the enigmatic Fake Yogini and the Toxic Boss to the enigmatically named Mrs Pseudo and Mrs Roark, each harbouring their hidden truths. Alongside, they chance upon a mysterious elderly lady embroiled in a hit-and-run incident, potentially holding the elusive key to the puzzle.

Sharma’s narrative unfolds as a delightful rollercoaster, deftly weaving humour with spine-tingling suspense and expertly dropping unforeseen plot twists. The characters are meticulously crafted, exuding a lifelike essence, while the dialogues brim with wit and engrossing banter. Beyond the thrilling storyline, the book delves into pressing themes such as the repercussions of urbanization, pollution, and climate change on our ecosystem and wildlife. It introduces the concept of ecothrillers, seamlessly intertwining ecological concerns with thrilling narratives.

This book is an absolute must-read for enthusiasts of mystery, humour, and astute social commentary. As the third instalment in the Veera Shivaraman Mystery series, it leaves one eagerly anticipating the next chapter. Without hesitation, I award this book a perfect 5 out of 5 stars and wholeheartedly recommend it to all avid readers.

Click here to check out – Unicorns In The City

The Art of Asking Open-Ended Questions to Your Kids

Parenting is an intricate dance of communication, especially when our children traverse various phases of growth and development. Often, it feels like deciphering a foreign language or navigating through silence. In my quest to bridge this gap, I stumbled upon the power of asking open-ended questions. These queries go beyond a simple yes or no, nurturing our kids’ curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking while fostering a deeper bond and unveiling their thoughts and emotions.

Yet, as enticing as open-ended questions are, they occasionally lead to unexpected and amusing situations. Allow me to share a few instances where I asked my child such questions, and the responses I received brought laughter, astonishment, and sometimes a facepalm.

Why did you put glue in your hair?

Because I wanted a mohawk like the cool kids at school.I was bored and curious about the outcome.I mistook it for shampoo; I didn’t read the label.To play a prank and see you laugh.

How did you manage to break the TV with a banana?

I mimicked a ninja and hurled the banana like a boomerang.I aimed to peel it, but it slipped and hit the TV.Curiosity struck; I wondered if the banana would fit the USB port.Out of frustration, the TV thwarted my favourite show.

What were you trying to do with the toaster in the bathroom?

I thought to make toast while taking a bath.Wondered if the toaster would float.An experiment involving electricity and water.To warm up the bathroom!

Then, there are moments of sincerity amidst the amusement:

What are some things that make you happy? (Besides driving me crazy).

Playing with friends and toys.Indulging in ice cream and candy.Watching cartoons and movies.Seeing you smile and hug me.

How do you cope when you feel angry or sad? (Please don’t say by throwing tantrums).

Deep breaths and counting to ten.Talking to you or a trusted person.Expressing through drawings or writing.Listening to music or reading.

Open-ended questions unravel layers of your child’s personality, interests, and emotions. They are a window into their world, often leading to laughter or reflection. But above all, they foster a profound connection and understanding between parent and child.

So, the next time you desire a meaningful conversation with your child, delve into open-ended questions. Prepare to be amazed by their unique responses.

For further insights into effective communication with your kids, here are some insightful books I found beneficial:

7 Habits of Highly Effective Teenagers by Sean Covey: Practical advice aiding teenagers in navigating adolescence, covering self-image, relationships, goals, and time management. Enhance understanding and communication between you and your child.Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More Than Peers by Gordon Neufeld and Gabor Maté Emphasizes parental influence over peer relationships, providing strategies to reconnect with your child and mitigate the impact of social pressures.Positive Discipline for Teenagers, Revised 3rd Edition by Jane Nelsen and Lynn Lott: A comprehensive guide promoting collaborative and respectful parenting, fostering responsibility and independence in teenagers.

For tailored guidance on mental wellness, parenting, or nurturing your child’s skills, contact me at namita@educateable.in or click here to book a consultation. Subscribe for updates on upcoming sessions and workshops.

May your parenting journey be enriching! Feel free to share these tips with others who could benefit from them.

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How to Be a Reasonable Parent (and Have More Fun)

Parenting is an undeniably challenging journey. As parents, we strive to foster our children’s well-being and success. However, amidst these aspirations, we often forget to relish the joys along this path.

In my quest for a more fulfilling parenting experience, I’ve adopted a guiding principle: to be a reasonable parent. But what exactly does this entail? Here are the core principles that form the foundation of my approach:

1. Embrace Uniqueness:

Each child is an individual with their own set of strengths and weaknesses. Measuring them against others or demanding too much from them results in injustice and unhappiness. Instead, I celebrate my child’s unique abilities and encourage their personal interests.

2. Respect Limits:

Understanding that children aren’t miniature versions of adults is crucial. They possess distinct needs, emotions, and capacities. Acknowledging and respecting these differences helps me avoid pushing my child beyond their capabilities. Empathy towards their feelings and perspectives is critical.

3. Value Effort Over Outcome:

Encouraging effort over mere results nurtures resilience and curiosity in children. I emphasize the importance of trying rather than focusing solely on achievements. I aim to cultivate intrinsic motivation, allowing my child to learn from mistakes and persist in their endeavours.

4. Maintain Composure:

Keeping a calm demeanour, even in challenging situations, is essential. Yelling or resorting to lectures tends to exacerbate problems. I strive to model the behaviour I wish to see in my child and prefer positive reinforcement and natural consequences over punitive measures.

5. Embrace Individuality:

Children are delightfully peculiar in their actions and preferences. Recognizing and accepting these quirks while ensuring they don’t transgress boundaries or harm others is paramount. Encouraging their unique personality and style is part of fostering their self-expression.

By adhering to these principles, I’ve discovered that parenting becomes less stressful and more enjoyable. There’s no need to strive for unattainable perfection; instead, I relish being myself while appreciating my child for who he is.

If you’re seeking tools to assist you on your reasonable parenting journey, here are some of my personal recommendations:

Books for Insight:

Explore practical advice and inspiring stories in books like The Whole-Brain Child, How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk, and The Power of Showing Up.

Baby Essentials:

Products like Pampers diapers, Himalaya baby lotion, and Fisher-Price toys can significantly simplify life with a baby.

Parenting Gear:

Consider items such as the LuvLap baby carrier, R for Rabbit stroller, and Mee Mee car seat for ease and flexibility while on the move.

Humorous Respite:

Laugh off the challenges with products like the World’s Okayest Mom mug, a Dad Jokes t-shirt, or a Parenting Bingo magnet.

Your time spent reading this post is appreciated. I hope you’ve found valuable insights and perhaps some helpful products. For inquiries, thoughts, or suggestions, please leave a comment below. Thank you for engaging, and here’s to joyful and fulfilling parenting!

Additionally, for personalized guidance on mental wellness, parenting, or nurturing your child’s skills, you can reach me at namita@educateable.in or book a consultation. Subscribe for updates on upcoming sessions and workshops.

Wishing you an enriching journey in parenting! Feel free to share these tips with others who might benefit from them.

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How to Deal with Your Kid’s Bad Day Without Ice Cream

Parenting can be an uphill journey, especially when our kids face tough days, leaving us feeling helpless about how to support them. The immediate inclination might often be to coax them into feeling better or offer an easy fix like ice cream. Still, these band-aid solutions seldom address the underlying issues and can sometimes exacerbate their feelings.

Recently, I stumbled upon a transformative technique and shared this invaluable parenting tip on my Twitter profile.

Parenting Tip: Instead of asking your child to cheer up or resorting to treats, try these four steps:

1. Validate: Acknowledge their Emotions

The first step involves acknowledging and validating your child’s feelings without dismissal. Offering empathetic statements such as “You seem really upset about that” or “I can see how disappointed you are” fosters a sense of being heard and respected. This, in turn, assists in calming their emotions.

2. Label: Identifying “Mean Brain” Thoughts

Introduce the concept of “Mean Brain” thoughts – those negative, self-critical notions that often plague us. Labelling these thoughts as such helps your child recognize that these thoughts are not facts but perceptions that can be challenged. Phrases like “That sounds like a Mean Brain thought” or “Your Mean Brain is trying to make you feel bad, but you don’t have to listen” can be powerful tools in this step.

3. Reframe: Shifting Perspectives

Guide your child towards reframing these negative thoughts into positive, realistic ones. Encourage them to consider alternative perspectives and evidence that contradicts their opposing beliefs. For instance, steering away from “You are stupid” towards “You are smart; this was just a challenging day” redirects the focus towards growth and learning.

4. Praise: Encouraging Positive Change

Finally, praise your child for their effort in challenging and changing negative thoughts. Show appreciation for their resilience with affirmations like “You did a great job of changing that thought!” or “I’m proud of your positivity and resilience.”

Experience the Results

Having personally tried this approach, I was astounded by its effectiveness. This method not only aids in immediate relief but also equips children with invaluable skills for navigating life’s challenges.

Further Steps and Resources:

Educational Books: I highly recommend exploring these insightful books to further support your child’s growth and development: 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teenagers by Sean Covey: An invaluable guide teaching teenagers life-enriching habits covering self-image, goal-setting, relationships, time management, and more. Unselfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me World by Michele Borba: This book sheds light on the significance of empathy in children’s lives, offering practical strategies for parents to nurture compassion and empathy in their kids. Pregnancy Notes: Before, During, & After by Rujuta Diwekar: A comprehensive guide based on Ayurvedic principles and Indian traditions, covering pregnancy, nutrition, exercise, and postpartum care.

Remember, parenthood is a shared journey where we learn and grow together. Feel free to connect if you have other valuable parenting tips to share or seek personalized guidance. Your experiences and insights can make a difference.

Thank you for taking the time to read this post. Feel free to spread the word and share these tips with others who might benefit from them. For tailored guidance on mental wellness, parenting, or nurturing your child’s skills, contact me at namita@educateable.in or click here to book a consultation. Subscribe for updates on upcoming sessions and workshops.

Wishing you a wonderful and fulfilling parenting journey!

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Parenting Without a Manual

Parenting, an endeavour without a manual, often leaves us pondering how to cultivate the best qualities in our children. We strive for honesty, self-confidence, courage, creativity, and compassion within them. Yet, navigating this terrain without leaning too heavily towards strictness or leniency, control or permissiveness, demand or indulgence is daunting.

The truth is many parents grapple with similar challenges daily. While we seek parenting advice through books, articles, podcasts, and expert opinions, the uncertainty persists. Doubt sometimes creeps in, making us question our parental capabilities.

However, perhaps the elusive manual isn’t the solution. Maybe we must trust our instincts and profound love for our children. It could be about being present, attentive, listening actively, understanding deeply, supporting, encouraging, guiding, and inspiring. It might entail being ourselves and allowing our kids to be themselves.

Parenting is an art, not a science. It’s a dynamic process, not a strict formula. It’s an ongoing journey, not a finite destination. And in this journey, we accompany our children, who are also evolving and learning.

Let’s embrace the uncertainties and adventures of parenting. Let’s cherish the triumphs and the stumbling blocks, the victories and the defeats, the moments of laughter and those of tears. Let’s practice kindness and compassion towards ourselves and our children. Let’s embody honesty, self-confidence, courage, creativity, and understanding.

Instead of seeking a manual, let’s become the guide our children need.

Here are some resources that might assist you in this journey:

“The Whole-Brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind“: This book offers practical approaches to nurture emotional intelligence, resilience, and empathy in your children by understanding how their brains function.“Parenting with Love and Logic: Teaching Children Responsibility“: This book provides insights into raising self-assured, motivated children equipped for the real world. It uses love and logical consequences to establish healthy boundaries without engaging in power struggles.“The 5 Love Languages of Children: The Secret to Loving Children Effectively“: This book delves into understanding your child’s love language, helping build a robust and enduring connection by tailoring communication and actions to their specific needs.

I hope these resources prove beneficial for you and your children. Have a wonderful day!

You can spread the word if these tips are helpful for you and others who need them. For personalized guidance on mental wellness, parenting, or nurturing your child’s skills, contact me at namita@educateable.in or click here to book a consultation. Subscribe to stay updated on upcoming sessions and workshops.

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How to Help Your Kids Deal with Losing

Losing is an inevitable part of life and can be a profound learning experience for our children. As parents, we aim to support our kids in navigating the disappointment and frustration of losing. How can we do this without misleading them or being insincere?

Consider these thoughtful tips for helping your children cope with losses, whether it’s in a sports match, a competition, or a gaming scenario:

Offer Comfort and Empathy: Instead of mere words, a comforting touch or a gentle pat can convey empathy, showing your child that you understand their feelings. Your presence and reassurance can help alleviate their stress and anxiety.Acknowledge Effort and Improvement: Encourage your child by acknowledging their efforts and improvements, irrespective of the outcome. Focus on specific positive aspects of their performance, like a successful move, an improvement in a skill, or a reasonable effort they put forth.Model Graceful Sportsmanship: It’s challenging, but acknowledging the winner graciously demonstrates good sportsmanship. Even if you may not favour the outcome, highlighting the winner’s efforts and skills teaches your children the value of respect, humility, and healthy competition.Encourage Growth and Learning: Use the experience of loss as a lesson in growth. Instead of pressuring your child, motivate them to strive for improvement. Losing provides valuable feedback that can help identify growth and skill enhancement areas.Offer Perspective and Resilience: Remind your child that losing doesn’t define their worth or ability. It’s a temporary setback and an opportunity to learn. By comforting them that obstacles are inevitable in life’s path, you help them develop a positive attitude and a growth mindset.

While dealing with loss can be challenging, it’s also a moment for valuable learning. Applying these tips can help your children navigate losses more effectively, preparing them for life’s challenges and opportunities.

If you found these insights helpful, share them with others who might benefit. For personalized guidance in mental wellness, parenting, or nurturing your child’s skills, please contact me at namita@educateable.in or click here to book a consultation. Subscribe to stay updated on upcoming sessions and workshops.

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