Practical tips
Taking Care of You
As hard as it might feel, we need to take care of ourselves if we are going to care for our kids well. Finding pockets of time to take care of ourselves isn't selfish - it might be one of the best things we can do for our kids.
- Find a church
- Find things you use to enjoy that you have stopped doing or try something new
- Pay attention to what time of day is most discouraging for you and make a plan
- Have a special treat for yourself where the kids won’t eat it. (Root beer, popcorn, etc)
- Get counseling to help you heal
- Rest when you can, even just being outside in the sunshine for a few minutes of quiet
Building Hope
When circumstances get dark, it can be hard to remember the good things God has done for us and the things we have to be thankful for. Shifting our perspective to acknowledge those things can make a world of difference.
- Start a list of God Moments in your life - times when you see God make a difference no matter how big or small
- Begin each day speaking God’s truth over yourself. (ex. The Lord is my refuge in times of trouble. I trust in You, for You, Lord, have never forsaken me when I seek You - from Psalm 9:9-10)
- Gather gratitude - as you notice things to be thankful for, write them on colorful post it notes and place them around your house
Leading well
Now that you are the only adult in the house, you ARE the leader, no matter what you may have been taught when you were young. God wants you to lead your family well. Depend on Him and step into the role of leader of your family.
- Pray over your children and their future
- Make household rules that are clear, with planned consequences if they’re broken
- Listen to your kids. Anytime, all the time. When they want to talk, if at all possible, look at them while they’re talking so they know they are valued
Running the household
There are some very important things to consider or set up for your household. You may not have been involved in financial decisions before or maybe they were all on your shoulders. Now is the time to put things in order for you and your children.
- Start a budget (Every dollar app by Dave Ramsey is a great budgeting tool)
- Ask for help to learn things you didn’t do before
- Make a list of meds, bank accounts, doctor’s numbers, etc for a trusted backup person to have
- Get your trust and will in order
- If applicable, apply for state insurance or reduced price lunch at school. Accept whatever help you need to get you back on your feet.
Have fun
Make time between homework and dinner, on a snow day, on a Saturday afternoon and have fun with your kids. Simple things can make the best bonding and joyful times. We make snow angels, grab a game of Skip-bo before dinner, or work on a puzzle when we can.
- Dance in the kitchen
- Make a snowman or snow angels with your kids
- Decorate foam hearts for valentine’s day and hang them on your kids' doors
- Plan a fun time themed night as a family. Make treats, play games, and make decorations around the theme.
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