Cheyenne, Wyo. (KGWN) The following tips are courtesy Ronn Jeffrey.
Parents are the best teachers of their children and one of the key areas they teach their children is how to control their anger. We’ve talked about how to help our kids control their anger.
The old adage "do as I say, not as I do", doesn’t work. If your not doing the right thing it doesn’t matter what you say. Children pay attention to what you do more than what you say.
1. Anger is Normal!
It’s important for kids to understand anger is a normal emotion. In fact it can be healthy when handled appropriately.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to model for our kids how to handle difficult feelings.
2. Think Before You Act or Speak!
Make sure your brain is engaged before you say or do something.
It’s impossible to put the toothpaste back into the tube once you’ve squeezed it out.
It’s OK to count to 10, take a deep breath, whatever helps you calm down.
3. Express Your Anger in a Safe Way.
Set an example by expressing your anger in a positive safe manner.
If you discipline in anger and with hurtful words, your child will learn those methods of handling anger. Remember you’re the adult.
4. Criticize the Behavior Not the Person.
When were angry, it’s easy for parents to say hurtful things about our kids when it’s really what they did that upset them.
Don’t attack the child’s character.
This is really important. Our kids can change their behavior but they cant change who they are.
5. Remember, It’s OK to Ask For Help!
Sometimes it’s difficult for us to control our feeling and it’s helpful to get someone else’s advice.
Talk to a counselor, join a support group, or enroll in a parenting class.