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Parents, you've perhaps found yourself saying the words, "stop doing that!" more often than usual during this lockdown period.
Despite the kids driving you crazy, the usual day-to-day tasks continue to take up a lot of your time which can make it a challenge to remain positive.
On top of that there's the universal anxiety that comes with the Covid-19 pandemic that makes things even worse.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has listed some tips that can help you and your family adopt a more positive outlook.
Be specific
The WHO suggests you don't tell your child not to make a mess, instead choose to say what you'd like to see.
Make your instruction clear and specific, for example: "Don't let the paint fall on the floor." or "Put away your clothes."
This can help you avoid confusion.
Affirm your child for their behaviour
If your child excels at a task, applaud them for it.
Now that schools are closed it is your duty as a parent to assist your child with their school work.
Perhaps they're not too confident about reading, but you can see their attitude as become more positive towards reading.
Applaud them for it!
You can read more on how to encourage children to read here: One mom shares her secrets for encouraging reluctant readers
Be honest with yourself
Ask yourself if your child is capable of doing what you've asked them to do.
It is not easy for a child to remain quiet and indoors for the whole day.
Perhaps make a rule that if you speak on the phone they should be quiet.
This won't necessarily work for a toddler however.
Their tantrums can be more dramatic so read this guide to find out how you can deal with them: 'No, I don't wanna… wahhhh!'- A guide to managing toddler tantrums
This father also has a very interesting trick he has adopted to defuse his child's tantrums. Watch here how he does it: 'Works every single time': This dad's trick to defusing tantrums is just too good
If you are going to shout at your child it'll make both of you more stressed and angrier.
Trying using a calm tone when you address them.
Use their name to indicate the child your specifically talking to and be patient with them.
This is a stressful and uncertain time for them too.
Family in lockdown: Parent24 has you covered
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Help your teen remain connected
We all know teenagers and their smart devices are glued to one another.
It is the parents responsibility to help create a balance in their teens life.
Help your child remain connect to their friends because the reality is they are not seeing them as much as their used to.
But also, don't let them spend too much time online that they consume so much current news that'll leave them more anxious and stressed.
Here are more tips from local psychologist: How to survive lockdown with teen boys, by a local psychologist
This time can be very stressful and emotionally taxing, but these tips should make the journey slightly easier and more bearable.
Do you have other safe and motivating tips that encourages positivity? Share them with us.
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