🌟Weekly Inspiration🌟

Sometimes the culture and the media leave us feeling negative about the state of the world and mental health, in particular. While there is much to be improved upon in the world, I have been feeling like parents need a burst of optimism ☀️. By and large, most children and adults are RESILIENT.  It is the norm to struggle through periods and regain homeostasis, heal, and persevere. We are hardwired in this miraculous way. Each week, I am struck by young people and families healing and overcoming true life challenges. Even in the face of trauma and huge adversity, most kids fare ok. Most children receive “good enough” parenting to get through and lead productive lives. Hang on to this in challenging parenting moments ❤️.

Ask Yourself:

How have I been resilient in my life?
Have I shared some of those stories with my children?
Were my parents resilient? Does my child know their stories of adversity?
Have I been a “good enough” parent to my child? Any improvements that I’d like to make?
Is my child resilient? How can I tell?
Can I remind my child of their own moments of healing, growth, and examples of triumph?
How do you think that would make them feel?

Breathe! So much to think about…and we worry so much as parents. Children love hearing about your stories of overcoming hardship—and there is much familial wisdom in sharing stories about their grandparents. Your modeling in this way cannot be underestimated. Remind them of their own stories of sturdiness—friendship struggles, learning challenges, adjustment triumphs, healing after loss, learning from mistakes, and coping through COVID. Every struggle is really an opportunity for growth. There is evidence everywhere of their resilience—notice it today and share it with them.