When it comes to raising kids, you often find parents are the friend or the parent. There is rarely any in between, but you can be both! If you want your kids to enjoy time with you while still remaining the parent, check out these helpful tips.
Set up ground rules with your kids. Once they know what is expected of them, it makes it easier for you to focus on having fun with them because the parenting part has already been laid out.
Set up consequences. Tell your kids what the consequences are if they break rules and go over it with them often so that they understand the consequences. Again, this will help them see that you are a parent, first, and that you expect certain behaviors from your children, and that you are not afraid to discipline them if those behaviors and expectations are not met.
Family fun night is important. Set up a game night, movie night, or other family ritual that is fun. This will show your kids that you can have fun and be friendly and playful with them while still being a parent and staying in a parental role.
Communicate with your kids. Don’t just boss them around or ask them mundane questions. Actually talk with your kids, not to them, and take this time to learn about your children. Does your daughter have a crush on a boy? Let her tell you about it! Does your son have a problem with a friend at school, be a friend and a parent by listening and offering advice if he needs it.
Get a hobby. Once your kids see you in a role other than being a parent to them, they will start to see that you are more than just “mom” and that you can be a friend, too. They will maybe even see you as “cool” enough to hang out with.
Share your interests with your kids. Again, they can’t just see you as “mom” if you also want to be their friend. Take them with you to a book club meeting, or listen to music you like with them so that they can get a glimpse at who you are when you aren’t in the role of mom.
Now in the comments below please tell me how you are balancing that parent/friend relationship!