By Mary Mumararungu
The festive season is approaching, and while you may not yet hear the jingle bells, it is just a matter of time before shopping centres light up with Christmas decorations.
Soon, the children will be home for an extended holiday, much longer than usual, which be exciting, particularly for those in boarding schools.
For many city-dwelling families, the hustle of daily school routines, combined with early morning wake-ups and late returns due to traffic jams, means that parents and children alike often feel drained. The excitement of the holidays may wear off quickly unless balance is maintained within the family. Let us explore some ways to nurture a balanced and fulfilling holiday experience for both parents and children.
Balancing responsibilities, family time
As a parent, the daily grind can sometimes feel overwhelming, particularly when children are unwell or family demands rise. One parent shared: “I’ve been out of balance because my children have been sick for weeks. I’ve put everything else on hold, even cancelling plans with friends. I’m exhausted and need the Lord to speak into this daily grind.”
Raising children can be exhausting, but our comfort lies in knowing that God provides us with the strength we need. The Bible reminds us that children are gifts from God. In Psalm 127:3-5, we read that children are like arrows in the hands of a warrior, a blessing from God to be nurtured and guided. Proverbs 22:6 further teaches us to train up a child in the way they should go so that when they grow older, they will not depart from it.
This principle of balance extends beyond the spiritual realm. It encompasses emotional, mental, and even environmental aspects of parenting. Parents play a vital role in shaping their children’s growth, and this starts at home.
Creating a supportive environment
School plays an important role in children’s lives, but much of their emotional and psychological development takes place at home. A study on epigenetics highlights that a child’s environment, including home life, can influence how their genes work without altering their DNA sequence. Whether your child is in public or private school, or participates in extracurricular activities, their home environment forms the foundation of their overall development.
Ephesians 6:4 advises fathers not to provoke their children to anger but to bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord. Creating a loving, respectful environment at home is critical. By modeling godly values and prioritizing open communication, parents can nurture a healthy, balanced relationship with their children.
Prioritising self-care, outdoor time
One key aspect of maintaining balance is ensuring that you, as a parent, are taking care of yourself. Children observe their parents closely, even if they don’t always express it. If your daily routine involves grabbing a glass of wine to de-stress every evening, they’ll notice. On the other hand, they’ll also notice if you prioritise exercise, healthy eating, and outdoor activities.
Spending time outdoors is beneficial not only for your children but for you as well. Research shows that being in nature can improve mood, enhance memory, and even boost attention span. The holiday season provides a great opportunity to step outside with your children, enjoy the fresh air, and engage in activities that will refresh both body and mind.
Encouraging independence, resilience
As children grow, they need the space to explore their individuality. Encouraging them to try new things and allowing them to fail when necessary is an essential part of raising resilient adults. Failure is a natural part of life, and children should learn to see it as an opportunity for growth rather than a sign of defeat. Letting your children experience and learn from their mistakes will help them develop self-confidence and independence.
Cultivating family bonds, shared values
While independence is important, so is nurturing a strong family bond. One of the best ways to do this is by sharing family dinners. These gatherings offer a chance to reinforce values, engage in meaningful conversations, and foster a sense of belonging. Additionally, performing acts of service as a family can teach children the value of selflessness and community, helping them understand that the world is bigger than just their immediate surroundings.
Another important aspect of balanced parenting is providing children with unstructured time. In today’s highly structured world, allowing older children time to explore their interests without the pressure of achievement is crucial. Free time helps them develop creativity, communication skills, and a sense of autonomy.
The festive season is a wonderful time to reconnect with family, but it’s also important to prepare in advance. Take time to reflect on the balance in your home, and ensure that you’re fostering an environment where both you and your children can thrive.
