These weeks of lockdown have been challenging for lots of people. Being so close and not getting away for the majority of the day takes its toll. Also, if you are on your own at home, that is also a different matter. You can feel even more isolated when not seeing or touching other people.
Personally, I’ve realised I’m a quite tactile person and I miss those hugs and greetings with friends and in particular, my children. There are lots of people who are less tactile and find it hard in situations when those kind of greetings are the norm. Lucky you, for now.
Most of us with kids know that the summer holidays can feel really long at times but at least we can generally at least do things away from home and involve other family or friends etc.
So, what do we do now? How do we cope and work better together to stay sane?
There are lots of ideas flying around so find out what works for you and your family and give it a try.
Communication is the biggest factor in all of this. What are your expectations of each other? How do you decide the way forward?
We tend to make assumptions a lot of the time and this can get in the way when the other person has not understood what you meant.
Clarifying your own needs is important and also listening to others without judging. What might seem ridiculous to you, might be really important to them.
Have family meetings and plan the week together. Who will cook? Who will clean? Who will wash up? Laundry? Shopping? Etc, etc, etc.
Everyone can help in one way or another. The kids are part of this and they are able to do more than we think. Also, when encouraged and allowed, this gives them a sense of achievement which in turn boosts their self-esteem.
