Take care of yourself first

You know how on flights you’re told to secure your own oxygen mask before helping others? That applies to parenting too. If you take the time to practice self-care and self-compassion, you will be in a much better place to be truly present for your kids. You can do this in small ways, like sitting quietly with a cup of tea for a 5 minutes, or even just taking a few seconds to stop and breathe or stretch. Or in bigger ways, like having a morning routine.

Just as you will run out of oxygen if you don’t secure your mask, you will run out of emotional resources if you don’t address your own needs. This leads to reactivity. Give yourself the space for thoughtful responsiveness.