Routines are one of the best Stress Management Therapy techniques out there. Without regular routines in place, life just doesn’t flow as it should. Instead we get bogged down by the lack of order and productivity that would otherwise be provided by a regular schedule.
Following is a list of Stress Management Therapy tips for getting through your weekdays with less stress and more order.
As a result of the Stress Management Therapy tips found below, you should find yourself and your family enjoying more time together. You should also experience less stress and reduced panic because instead hunting the house for your keys or the kids for their homework, everyone will know where what they are looking for is.
Stress Management Therapy comes when you not only establish daily routines but also stick to regular meal and bedtimes. Once you have a weekday schedule in place adhere to it as closely as possible. This assists children in falling into pattern that will find them well-rested for the next day at school.
Organize a family meeting to discuss expectations. Clearly outline steps for getting ready for school, doing chores, completing homework and just what is expected when bedtime rolls around.
When delegating chores make sure they are reasonable, limited in number, and age appropriate.
Write down and post all chores/responsibilities in a highly visible place, so everyone knows what it expected. (You may want to remind older children it is your responsibility as a parent, not their responsibility as an older sibling to remind young ones what their jobs are.)
If need be, place self-stick notes on mirrors and doors as reminders.
Keep a master calendar. This is a Stress Management Therapy biggie in our house. Without a master calendar co-ordinating all of our family activities, our respective schedules would be hard to manage and hence, very stressful. Our wall-sized calendar lists all our commitments, schedules for extra-curricular activities as well as days off from school and major events (birthdays, family outings) at home and at school (school barbecue, picture day).
Before heading off to bed, make sure your kids are ready for the next day including everything required in their backpack and clothes (complete with shoes, socks and accessories) laid out.
Support your children as they develop organizational skills by taking the time to photocopy checklists and schedules and taping them to the refrigerator. Provide gentle reminders about filling in calendar dates and keeping any papers/materials organized. Most important, set a good example.
Finally all family Stress Management Therapy techniques are best executed with love and affection. Praise all organizational efforts with not only an “I’m proud of you” but with a warm hug. Kids never grow too old for hugs.
Published by Sherrie Le Masurier on March 15, 2006 04:42 PM
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