17 Vital Parenting Resolutions To Become A Better Mom
We often make new resolutions at the beginning of the year, even though there is no good reason to choose this particular day. While this may be a good tradition for setting new goals, it is much better to make new resolutions when we feel inspired and ready to change our habits.
If you are reading this article, it’s probably because this period may be good for you to bring positive change in your life and become a better mother for your children. If so, here are 17 vital parenting resolutions you can make today!
Prioritize Your Partner
Prioritizing your partner is fundamental for the well-being of your family. You may be tempted to put your kids first, but the truth is that your relationship with their father is the basis upon which everything else is built. By nourishing your relationship with your spouse, you can give your kids a good example to follow, for instance, showing them how to navigate disagreement without losing control.
Limit Screen Time
It’s so easy to put our kids in front of a screen whenever we need time. Even though this is okay to a certain extent, don’t exaggerate. Set a screen time limit and ensure your kids – and yourself! – respect it. Then, you can spend time together doing enriching activities, such as reading a book.
Focus on Empathy
Do you remember when you were a teenager, and your emotions were so strong? Back in the day, you could cry in a second listening to a song reminding you of an ex-lover or get so angry at your parents that you seriously considered leaving the house. If you have teenage kids, they are probably going through the same emotions. Try to empathize with them instead of only criticizing them.
Be Kind (To Yourself)
It’s always a good idea to try to be kinder, not only to the people around us, such as our children and spouse but also ourselves! Mistakes are a normal part of life that cannot be avoided. Instead of beating yourself up, try to see every error as an opportunity for growth.
Prioritize Sleep
All new parents know how much sleep deprivation can affect their lives. We often consider eating healthier or exercising more to boost our health, but having a good sleeping pattern is usually more helpful. To have a great night of sleep, go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, and ensure your bedroom is quiet and dark.
Value Self-Care
Who has time for self-care with children around? True! But guess what? Only by taking care of yourself can you be a good mother. The time devoted to self-care should never be negotiable. You deserve that hot bath! You deserve that weekend getaway. You deserve to take care of yourself whenever you need to.
Make Time for Socialization
When was the last time you talked to your best friends? Noy by text, but in front of a cup of coffee in a lovely café? It’s time to reach out and hang out with them. Just because you are now a mother, it doesn’t mean you can no longer have fun with the people you love the most.
Eat More Meals Together
Families often have different schedules, especially when kids grow old. Eating together at the table becomes a practice relegated to Sunday lunches, but this doesn’t have to be the norm. See whether there are other days during the week you can all share a meal and chat.
Talk for Real
Talking about serious matters is crucial to developing strong bonds. Of course, not all conversations should be serious, and laughing and being silly together is equally important. However, getting your kids used to discussing controversial topics such as politics, religion, and emotions is key for their development. This will make you closer and teach your children how to communicate properly without disrespect.
Plan Your Future
Often, couples tend to stop planning a future together after having kids. But this phase is just the beginning of your marriage and life as an adult. Planning an exciting future with your husband will help you feel excited for what is yet to come. Are you planning to live where you are now for the rest of your life? What about buying a second house? Should you plan that trip to Africa after your kids leave for college?
Be More than a Mom
Having children is one of the best things that can happen to you. However, if your whole identity is based on your role as a mother, you will eventually become frustrated. Instead, make sure you maintain a strong sense of self. Nourish your passions and hobbies, and don’t forget that you are not only a mother but also a friend, a partner, and a daughter.
Don’t Only Criticize
When was the last time you complimented your children? This is just as important as criticizing them when they do something wrong. Today, try to compliment or thank your kids for something they did, such as getting a good grade in school or helping you with the dishes after dinner.
Schedule Regular Family Movie Or Game Nights
Scheduling regular family movie or game nights is a fantastic way to strengthen your family’s bond and create lasting memories. These dedicated evenings provide a break from the daily grind, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy quality time together. Whether watching a favorite film or engaging in a friendly competition over a board game, these activities foster communication, teamwork, and laughter. They also create a sense of tradition and routine that children can look forward to, offering them a sense of stability and anticipation.
Model Healthy Habits
Modeling healthy habits is essential for fostering a positive lifestyle for your children. When parents consistently practice good habits, such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and prioritizing mental well-being, children are likelier to adopt these behaviors. By leading by example, you teach the importance of self-care and overall wellness. Children observe and mimic their parents, so demonstrating healthy choices helps instill these values early on.
Fill Your House With Inspiring Objects
Our environment has a massive impact on our lives. If your kids grow up in a house full of screens, they will spend most of their time staring at them. This is why you should try to fill your home with interesting objects, from musical instruments to art material and kids’ books. Chances are your children will pick up one of these hobbies.
Spend More Time In Nature
If you live in a huge metropolis, you are probably stressed without even realizing it. It’s incredible how a quick trip in nature can help you eliminate accumulated stress and give you a fresh perspective on life. So, this weekend, go camping with your family, take a hiking trip, or enjoy a picnic in the nearest park.
Read!
Did you ever read a bedtime story to your children? This can be such a great resolution! Reading a few pages of a kid’s book every night together in bed can have plenty of positive repercussions. First, it’s a great opportunity to spend quality time together. Second, it may lead your kids to pick their own books and read in their free time. Third, it creates wonderful memories you will all cherish for life.
More For You
Don’t forget to value self-care! A quick five-minute morning skincare routine can make a massive difference in your attitude towards the day. Always remember that taking care of yourself is a must.
This article was first published on the RB ITALIA Blog.
