This is everyday, real-life stuff. I told my kids I may have to refer to this graphic sometimes!

• This is everyday, real-life stuff. I told my kids I may have to refer to this graphic sometimes!
  
  They gave their input and it was interesting to listen to their perspectives (something I would encourage you to do with kids for anything that concerns them.)
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  >> One of the most important requests was that any reply was done in a kind way, without a hint of being condescending or manipulative.
  
  Sometimes, it can be tempting to control your kids to make your life easier
  
  But that’s not your job or theirs
  
  Not that kids can’t be helpful
  
  Their main purpose is to be themselves
  
  And our job as parents is to love them for who they are
  
  Not to mold and shape them into our idea of perfection
  
  Like it or not, whining is a means of expression
  
  There’s some sort of need
  
  It could be a physical need - food, water, and/or rest
  
  An emotional need - “I can’t hold it in anymore!” “I feel like I’m going to explode!” “I just need to cry!”
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  A need for your presence — “I need you to hear me and see me!” “I want you to play with me!”
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  A straightforward want — “I want to go to the playground!” “I want to go out with my friends!”
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  A need to be understood — “This is unfair!” I’m not saying to give into any demand if your kid is whining
  
  But do consider what the need is and if there’s a way to work out a win-win (“We can go to the playground after we drop off the groceries.”)
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  Offer choices when possible
  
  When boundaries need to be set, be fair and kind. For little kids, get on their level. Have empathy.
  
  If the limit needs to be firm, then say so in a calm, unwavering tone. (“No juice after dinner - you know that.”)
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  Of course, this is much easier when you feel grounded and balance
  
  So take a moment before responding if you need to
  
  And take nice slow breaths, relaxing your face and jaw
  
  If you feel like breaking down, chances are your kid might feel the same
  
  Don’t hesitate to hug an upset child
  
  Showing that you love them in this moment will help them feel secure
  
  They they don’t have to act “perfect” to be lovable
  
  That processing tough emotions is worthwhile and doesn’t make you any less
  
  Do the same for yourself, too
  
  I’m in this with you 💖 Dr. Dijamco34w
• allworldshealthTold my kids I was posting on whining today 😉 and after a quizzical look from the little one, they approved!#integrativemedicine #integrativepediatrics #mindfulparenting #consciousparenting #mindfulness #consciousliving #holistic #holistichealth