2 minute read
HUMOR & ENTERTAINMENT
have this liberty. The best I can advise is separate what your child can do independently and free yourself to focus your time and energy for when they really need parental help and supervision. Additionally, older siblings can assist younger ones (when the sibling dynamic allows). For example, a sibling that reads Hebrew can listen to a younger sibling review their aleph bais. This gives you a chance to prioritize and frees you to spend extra time on where you’re most needed. You can designate times for each child to have your attention for their work. Kids interrupt less knowing they’ll get their time, and you’ll be able to give each child your full attention.
EMOTIONAL NEEDS
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I’m neither a psychologist nor a social worker but I can give
AN ORGANIZED HOUSEHOLD WILL RUN SMOOTHER THAN A DISORGANIZED ONE.
some small ways I try to make sure each child gets their emo tional needs met. Younger children in particular need lots of physical affection. They get so much just from sitting on a par ent’s lap or cuddling, even if you can’t give them your undivided attention. Making a conscious effort
to hug a child as you pass them; sharing a kind word or funny joke with an older child goes very far. Spending private time with a child, whether it’s a walk or a game, is an excellent way to bond. I often find that I can appreciate each child more when I have that private time with them.
SANITY
No, I can’t give you sanity. What I can do is remind you to take time for yourself. One of the first questions people ask me is how I handle not having any time to myself. They’re often surprised to hear that I have “me time.” I have a spot each week worked into our schedule that is time for me. I’m a better mother when I take that time, and it’s important. Be gentle on yourself, and be gentle on your kids.
Sara Rayvych, MSEd, has her master’s in general and special education. She has been homeschooling for over 10 years in Far Rockaway. She can be contacted at RayvychHomeschool@gmail.com.
A HEALING LAUGH USING HUMOR TO COPE WITH STRESS
