By Kerri Kreh Reda, M.P.H.
You know that parenting can be a tough job requiring lots of stamina and patience. Life throws many challenges at us and keeping up with a family’s schedule can be exhausting. Parents who take good care of themselves feel better and have more energy to meet the needs of their children in positive and loving ways. When you eat well, get enough sleep and exercise regularly, you are better able to cope with daily routines and sudden emergencies.
Be sure to eat at least three nutritious meals a day. Fueling your body with good nutrition will give you lots of energy and keep your immune system strong. Also, strive to get a minimum of 8 hours of sleep each night. Discover ways to exercise that you enjoy and try to find time for activity each and every day.
Managing stress is crucial; share your feelings with a partner or friend. Create a network of support with family members or friends with children the same ages as your children. Ask for help when you need it.
Find ways to relax such as taking a walk, doing yoga, reading or enjoying a bath. If you are short on time, try deep breathing exercises that can be very calming. It’s also important to maintain a positive attitude and sense of humor when living with children. When you take care of yourself, you can take better care of your children and you are setting a wonderful example for your children as well.
Kerri Kreh Reda, M.P.H., is a Human Development Specialist with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County’s Family Health and Wellness Program. She can be reached at 631-727-7850 ext. 330 or at kkr5@cornell.edu.