Happy Kids

Being a parent is exhausting, we worry all the time and we just want our kids to be happy!

Easier said than done, right?!

Here are 5 things I think make for happier kids. (PS I need to constantly remind myself of these but when I apply them, they really do work!)

1. It Starts With You

If you’re happy, then you can handle whatever the little treasures throw at you. If you’re worried about something and your kid throws their entire breakfast over the wall, you’re not likely to handle it calmly!! No one is happy all the time but find time throughout the day to do something that makes you happy.

2.    A Little Bit Of Time

Give them your undivided attention. If you’re always busy, you won’t be able to handle their totally irrational behaviour! Leave your phone in the other room so you don’t check it every minute. Do something with them; making slime might be more fun than you thought! Have dinner with them; it’s a great time to chat, plus you get a bit of your evening back!

3.    Prepare Them

Give your kids plenty of notice about what’s about to happen, don’t spring things on them. If they’re drawing and you tell them to stop immediately and come for a bath, it will invariably be met with “Wait, I’m just……”. And we all know how that goes down! Give them a 10 minute warning and time to finish up what they’re doing. It’s not a choice for them but the whole process is happier if they’re prepared!

4.    A Spoonful Of Sugar

If your kids are not ‘morning people’, maybe they just need a little boost first thing? Leave a biscuit beside their bed so they get that sugar hit as soon as they wake up. Snacks throughout the day help keep them happy but you have to balance that with not ruining their appetite and keeping healthy teeth.

5.    Get Outside

Children don’t go to a park and just stand still, they run! Being outside gives them a sense of freedom, which improves their imagination and makes them happier. Go to outdoor clubs, take them to the park after school….. being outside keeps them physically healthy as well as improves mental health and helps with behavioural issues.

Good luck and stay happy!!