What are your kids like at home? Do they laugh and play? Are they respectful and fun to be around? Or, are they whiney, and grumpy and fighting with each other all the time?
There are a lot of reasons why children behave the way they do, but one thing to check when your kids are acting in ways that stress you out is, "Are you stressed out already?"
Whatever emotions we are carrying around with us, our kids pick up on them, distort or amplify them slightly, and reflect them back, like a funhouse mirror.
If you are feeling job stress, or relationship stress, or simply dread that you have to deal with your grumpy, whiney kids, it will add to having to care for grumpy whiney kids.
First, take care of yourself! Take note of your internal thoughts and feelings and intentionally change them for the better. Take a deep breath. Think of the things you are thankful for. Spend some time in prayer, or meditation. Go for a walk. Do something to get yourself in a positive space and you will find that, although it may not solve all the attitude issues with your kids, it will make a positive difference.
The next step is to set limits with your kids so they don't bring you back to that stressed-out place. Just remember, it is okay to take care of yourself. If you don't, you will ultimately have nothing left to give others.
George Scripture
