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Role Modeling Self-Care for Kids: Tips for Busy Parents

By Jenna Sherman, 08/10/22, 5:45PM EDT

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How can you encourage and model self-care to your kids? As parents, it can be challenging to find the time and energy to focus on your own self-care while staying on top of everything else that needs to get done. But if you’re not taking care of yourself, how can you expect your kids to learn how to do it? Below is a guide to help you practice and model self-care with your kids.

Practice Mindfulness Exercises
Mindfulness can be a helpful tool for kids when they feel overwhelmed or stressed. There are many mindfulness exercises that you can encourage your children to practice. These exercises are simple but effective. You can try any of these  exercises with your kids. There are also many guided meditations available on YouTube if you want to go through them together.

Get Creative
Drawing and creating allow kids to relax, an essential part of self-care. When you draw, you focus on getting your ideas down on paper in front of you rather than internalizing stress and anxiety. Drawings can also be a great way to express emotions that are hard to talk about out loud. While working with colors, kids can work through some frustrations on paper.

Catch a Game
Sports games are better in the stadium because you can feel one with the other fans, providing a sense of community. Also, being in the stadium makes the game more exciting. Enjoying a treat by watching your favorite team play is a terrific way to unwind and relax with your child. If your team is not nearby, plan a fun weekend getaway. Interactive seating maps are available from online ticket suppliers, allowing you to view the seats from all angles before buying. What about Yankees season tickets? You can search for cheap tickets online and filter by price range, rating, and date.

Get Green
Just like adults, kids need time to relax and recharge. Gardening is a great way to bond with your kids and teach them the importance of caring for themselves and the environment. Plus, gardening is a fun activity for all ages.

Go Online Shopping Together
When feeling frazzled, take a break and shop online together. When buying toys or fitness equipment, spend your money with care. Reading product reviews and looking up ratings can help you get the most out of your money. By reading reviews, you can be confident that the things you buy will last and be worthwhile.

Exercise in Nature
Try to set aside some time each day to go for a walk, run, or bike ride in Jersey City, NJ. Going outside gives you some much-needed nature time and shows your kids that exercise can be fun and relaxing. Being in nature can help reduce stress, improve moods, and boost physical health. 

Role Model Self-care
You can encourage and role model self-care for your children by making it a part of your daily routine. Exercising, meditating, breathing, and creating art are great ways to practice self-care.

Visit the Jersey City Soccer Association to learn how you can enjoy soccer with your child.