Expert Shares 8 Essential Tips for Busy Parents on Parents’ Day

Parents’ Day, celebrated on July 27, serves as a reminder of the often-overlooked efforts parents make daily. As many parents face challenges in managing their responsibilities, expert advice can provide much-needed support. Larissa, a mother and the founder of The Childcare Guide, has shared eight practical tips to help parents navigate the complexities of raising children more effectively.

One of the key messages Larissa emphasizes is the importance of communication between parents. She states, “When parents communicate with each other about how they would like their children to be raised, the struggles their child is currently facing, together they can decide what strategies they will implement to support their child.” This shared understanding is crucial, as it allows children to receive consistent support from both parents, fostering a sense of security and clarity regarding expectations.

Larissa highlights that children thrive when parents are present. Instead of striving for perfection in parenting, she suggests focusing on being actively engaged. “Children only need a few basics to thrive, and one of those is their parents’ presence,” she explains. By participating in their children’s activities and showing genuine interest, parents can strengthen their bond and improve their own mental well-being.

Listening is another vital aspect of parenting that Larissa addresses. She notes that when parents frequently respond with comments like “I am busy” or “not now,” it sends a message to children that their thoughts and feelings are not valued. “This may not seem a problem when they are three and want to show you their fifth drawing of lines, but it creates the foundation for how they will feel when they are teenagers,” she warns. Establishing open lines of communication early on is essential for fostering trust and confidence in the parent-child relationship.

To make daily routines more manageable, Larissa suggests meal prepping as an effective strategy. She advises parents to set aside time to prepare meals for the week after grocery shopping. “Then put them in the fridge or freezer, depending on the day they will be eaten,” she explains. This approach alleviates the stress of cooking during busy evenings, minimizes dishwashing, and reduces food waste.

Moreover, Larissa points out that babies transitioning to solid foods can share meals with their parents. By preparing meals without added salt, sugar, or honey, parents can ensure that their children can enjoy the same dishes. “Cooking a family meal instead of cooking separately for you and your baby means you are cooking half the meals, with half the washing up,” she states.

While social media can serve as a source of creative ideas for children’s activities, Larissa stresses the importance of balancing inspiration with reality. “Use social media for inspiration, but don’t feel guilty if you are not doing as many parent-led activities as social media is portraying that others do,” she advises. Recognizing that every family and child is unique can help alleviate feelings of guilt and anxiety associated with parenting.

Larissa also encourages parents to allow their children to experience boredom. “Reduce how much you plan for your children because when children are constantly busy, they do not have the opportunity to be bored,” she explains. Embracing boredom can foster creativity, problem-solving skills, and self-esteem, enabling children to take charge of their happiness.

As Parents’ Day brings attention to the often-unseen efforts of parents, Larissa’s practical insights provide valuable guidance. By prioritizing communication, engagement, and a balanced approach to parenting, families can create a nurturing environment that supports both children and parents alike.