Empowering Parenting Strategies with Trekwise
Wednesday, Aug 7, 2024
At Trekwise, we believe every parent does the best they can with the tools they have. Sometimes, though, it helps to have a few more tools in the toolbox—especially when raising a child who struggles with behavioral health. One recent session with a parent, let's call her Jane, highlights the power of learning new strategies, and we're excited to share a bit of that journey with you. (Don't worry, names and details have been changed to protect privacy!)
Navigating the Challenges
Jane comes to us feeling overwhelmed. Her son, let's call him Max, struggles with anxiety and outbursts at home, and Jane is at a loss for how to help him. She loves Max deeply, but their interactions often leave both of them frustrated.
Our first goal is to assure Jane that there is nothing "wrong" with her or Max. Every child is unique, and every parent faces challenges. What we want to do is help Jane feel more equipped to handle those tough moments with confidence and compassion.
The Power of Perspective
One of the strategies we explore is the idea of shifting perspectives. We ask Jane to think about Max's behavior not as "bad" but as his way of communicating that something is off. For example, instead of seeing an outburst as defiance, she begins to see it as Max's way of expressing that he is overwhelmed or scared.
By changing the lens through which she views Max's behavior, Jane finds that she is able to approach him with more patience and understanding. This shift doesn't just improve Max's behavior—it strengthens their relationship.
A Little Humor Goes a Long Way
During our session, we also emphasize the importance of humor. Parenting is hard work, and sometimes the best way to defuse a tense situation is with a little laughter. Jane starts incorporating playful moments into their routine, like making silly faces or having impromptu dance parties when things get heated.
Humor becomes a way for Jane to connect with Max on a different level, reminding him (and herself) that they are on the same team.
Building on Strengths
One of the most rewarding parts of our work at Trekwise is helping parents see the strengths in themselves and their children. Jane realizes that Max has an incredible imagination and a strong sense of justice—qualities that, when nurtured, can help him navigate the world in a positive way.
We work with Jane on strategies to encourage these strengths, like setting up creative projects for Max to work on when he feels anxious, or involving him in decisions around the house to give him a sense of control.
Moving Forward
By the end of our sessions, Jane feels more empowered and less stressed. She knows that there will still be tough days ahead, but she has the tools to handle them. Most importantly, she feels more connected to Max, and their relationship grows stronger.
At Trekwise, our mission is to support parents like Jane in becoming the best version of themselves while raising their children to be the best versions of themselves, too. Parenting is a journey, and we're here to walk that path with you, every step of the way.
So, to all the parents out there—remember, you're doing an amazing job. And if you ever need a little extra support, we're just a phone call away. Let's make this journey a little easier, and maybe even a little funnier, together!
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