Hey amazing mamas! Imagine this scenario: your child stands at a crucial crossroads, just one decision away from a path that could lead to something truly heartbreaking. I'm not here to scare you, but to be brutally honest about the real impact you, as a parent, can have on your child's life. In my recent podcast episode, Eric Daddario, a youth mental health speaker, bravely shared his personal experience of losing his younger brother, shedding light on the profound effect parents can have as game-changers.
Now, let's delve into 3 actionable ways you can become that trusted adult your child needs. First and foremost, approach the situation with understanding. Eric stresses the importance of talking to your kids like friends, not authority figures. Create a gentle and supportive atmosphere, assuring them that you're there to help, not to reprimand. Building trust makes it easier for your child to open up about their struggles.
Next, embrace vulnerability. As parents, it's crucial to recognize that it's perfectly okay not to be perfect. Eric advocates for sharing your own struggles, making you more relatable to your child. This honesty builds a bridge of understanding, showing your child that imperfections are a natural part of being human. When they witness you overcoming challenges, they may feel more inclined to seek your guidance.
Now, let's talk about getting to know their world. In today's age of social media and unique challenges, understanding the world your child lives in is crucial. Eric highlights that the pressures and standards today are vastly different from what we experienced. By taking the time to understand their world, you not only show empathy but also position yourself to better support them through their unique journey.
But what if you find yourself not being the trusted adult in their lives at the moment? Here's a comforting analogy – picture yourself as the broccoli on the shelf, and your child is reaching for the sweet candy they love. While they may not be reaching for you now, eventually, as they navigate through life, they'll reach for the broccoli – they'll come to you. However, in the meantime, it's essential to guide them to other trusted adults who can play a significant role in their lives, like a coach or instructor.
Mama, if there's one thing you can do for your child today, make it listening to our latest podcast episode. Eric shares invaluable insights that can truly make a difference in your parenting journey. Give it a listen, and let's unlock that incredible potential together! 🌟
Sending you all the love and support,
Billy
