Warrior Worthy New Year's Resolutions

     New Year’s are a magical time, the promise of a fresh start, and the opportunity to recreate ourselves and leave the bad habits of last year behind. I mean who doesn’t love the hope of new beginnings? Parents are especially fond of the idea. We like to dream of our children being more respectful, kinder, or more responsible in their day to day lives. As parent’s, we look at how short childhood is and vow to make it our priority to be more present with our kids this year, or to be more patient, and more focused on giving them more quality time and attention. 

      After all, this year’s going to be different! We can just feel it! However big our wishes or desires, without a plan it truly is just a dream. A mere fantasy step towards realizing the goals we want. Change is difficult. And lasting change is even more so. Without the conscious minute to minute, day to day exercise of our determination and will to succeed our resolutions will begin to fizzle and fuzz out as our good intentions weaken in the face of all the work it will takes to succeed and overcome the obstacles in our way. And before February has truly had the chance to come make its mark, our good intentions are bottled up and stored away until the promise of a new beginning kindles that passionate hope once more.

      Here at Warrior’s Way we believe that goals are crushed one tiny step in the right direction at a time. Sometimes those little steps are like striking gold with your Warrior. We make a seemingly insignificant change to our daily routine, an adjustment in how we discipline our child, or a more conscious effort in how we communicate with our family. Surprisingly that change seems to work. That tiny step begins truly improving our family life and this small change sticks around far longer than we thought possible. These small changes cascade towards a more positive home environment. The hard part is to take that first step and then stick with it.

      As a family unit, our goals shouldn’t solely be focused on just us, but also a joint effort that we are all working towards. So as you gather your families about you to ring in the New Year try to get everyone involved in the resolution process. The linked article has some really great family resolutions that we at the Way have all been working on in our own homes (especially the first three, such easy small focus changes). In addition we would like to encourage having dinner as a family at least once a week and making your family dinner time an electronic free zone.

      We know that good parents, even Black Belt level ones, aren’t perfect. And that is totally okay. There is no secret formula for us to follow, but there are way simple ways we can grow with our family every day. So commit to changing together this year no matter how big or small. After all, it’s the journey not the destination that makes this misadventure of parenting so grand. Whether your resolutions become new habits or are total flops, the best part is that you’re doing it together and daily trying to make each other better. So enjoy the little things this winter break, try a new habit or focus in your home this New Year’s, and we’ll be here… on your team and at your back when we get back in 2024.

We hope you have the best of New Year’s Warriors! 

We'll see you on the mat in January

  

#RaiseAWarrior

A Very Merry Bucket List

     When you’re a child, December is literally the looooooooooongest month of the year. The countdown to all of the fun holiday traditions, the return of elf on the shelf, school break, and presents seems unbearably long to our kiddos. However, all of that changes when you’re the adult with children of your own. Suddenly December becomes a dash of to do lists, holiday shopping and baking. One second its October and you’re starting to plan your gifts out and then you blink and feel like you’ve been through a holiday hurricane. You’re left surrounded by decorations you need to put away, and wondering how it's suddenly New Year’s Eve. 

     So to make your season merry and bright we threw together this Christmas bucket list filled with fun things to do that are practically free. So here's a perfect list of magical moments. We hope this helps you keep the “oh man” I forgot so and so's present to a minimum and also gets you and your family into the true spirit of the holidays… making memories with your loved ones and enjoying time with each other during this time of holiday cheer and giving.

   

Happy Holiday season y'all!

From your favorite Warriors at

#RaiseAWarrior

Valentine's Traditions With The Whole Family

     Valentine's Day is one of those holidays you either love or you don't. As parents we occasionally get to enjoy the kind of romantic rendezvous that Valentine's is all about, but for the majority of us its a crazy sugar rush for the kiddos, indulging yourself with some massively available chocolate treats, and some time together as the whole family. So how can we use Valentine's to our advantage? After all isn't Valentine's Day meant to be a celebration of love?

     We know that everyone deep down needs to feel loved, cherished, and appreciated. We have all the best intentions to constantly remind them of this fact, but far too often we tend to fall short. Valentine's gives us the perfect opportunity to tell the people in our life just how precious they are. It is also a great time to start traditions, make memories and create more love not just between parent and child, but also between siblings. So here are some simple ideas to help you celebrate Valentine's Day. We kept it simple that way even if you're super busy, broke, or harried and always on the go, you can still find a quick way to share how much you adore the people you live with this Valentine's.

Exchange Valentine's

     This is one of those easy traditions that can be so meaningful throughout the years. And the younger you start, the more likely they are to continue the tradition when they've left the nest and in their own families. It doesn't matter if you buy Valentine's to exchange, or whip up some homemade ones. There is just something special about a handwritten note (or picture- depending on your child's age) from your loved ones. My mom has continued this as we've moved out, gone through college, and started families of our own. Every single one of those notes is precious and when I accidentally happen upon one of them it never ceases to make my day. I started tucking them into random books or cookbooks so I happen upon them more often. It's one of those traditions that is so easy to do and and keeps on giving.

Give each other 'heart attacks'

     My mom started this once we were already adults and I love it. Every year we awake on Valentine's Day to our front door covered in paper hearts with reasons why she loves us on it. These 'heart attacks' as she calls them, have found their way to me from dorm life, to apartments, and on through home ownership. It's one of those simple traditions that just makes you smile and is sure to make your neighbors jealous of this sweet expression of love. As a family there are several ways to do this. Parents (or even siblings) can heart attack another's bedroom door secretly or you can make a big heart with each individual's name at the top that can be filled out by everyone throughout the week. Just make sure you put them where they're sure to be noticed and regularly brighten everyone's day. A bathroom mirror is another great space to 'heart attack' your family. So get creative and take a few minutes to share how cherished the individuals in your family are.

Make some food traditions

     Throughout the years we've heard about this being done many ways by our Little Warrior's and their families. Some families love to get all dressed up and go to a fancy dinner, others are all about not fighting hour plus dinner crowds on Valentine's day and have candle lit dinners at home. From heart shaped breakfasts that are Instagram perfect, to everyone chipping in to help make some memories and (hopefully) the meal. For those a little too busy for either fancy dining or candle lit dinners at home, you can always get dressed up fancy for a not so fancy (but memorable) fast food run. It's a great way to take something ordinary and make it extraordinary! So no matter how busy your schedule is we encourage you to have some fun by starting some Valentine's food traditions with your loved ones.

Start a telephone Valentine's chain

     Sometimes the important people of our life don't live nearby. We always mean to call, but it's easy for those out of sight people to become out of mind. So call someone especially dear to your family. Pass the phone around and take turns sharing with this person why you love them. Then ask them to pass it forward by calling someone they love and continuing the chain. Even if they don't call another your bright voices are sure to make their day.

Pay it forward

     There are many people who no longer lucky enough to be surrounded by loved ones. So if you've got a little extra time there are several ways to make a strangers day and teach your children about giving this Valentine's day. Whether you anonymously drop roses to the elderly or single in your neighborhood, choose to make Valentine's to take to a nursing home, volunteer to walk some dogs, there are plenty of simple ways to help your children see the good in paying a little love forward and making another's day.

After all the joy we feel when showing other's loved is one of those highs that last long after.

     So there you have it. Some simple ways to bond, make some memories, and spread the love this Valentine's Day. We know making stuff like this happen takes a bit of planning and a bit of prep, but the priceless smiles of your Little Warriors is always worth it. Keep rocking on Warrior parents!

#RaiseAWarrior 

Family Values: An Attitude of Gratitude

       Thanksgiving is one of those classic holidays loved by many and with good reason. It's a time to gather together, share a meal of abundance and give thanks for all the good in our lives, be it large or small. And it is also an amazing opportunity to teach our children what the holiday is all about: Gratitude. 

      Gratitude is one of those traits that is truly life changing. It allows us to step outside of our own self interest and helps us understand that the goodness in our lives is due in part to the people and circumstances around us. Especially as a kid, most of the good they experience in life wouldn't be possible without the love of the people in their lives. Those things are privileges that aren't always given or earned. 

     So if you're looking to foster a greater practice of gratitude in your homes this month we've got you covered. Studies have shown that full fledged gratitude occurs in four parts. And while your younger child may not be consistently hitting all of these marks we've got some advice on how to increase your child's awareness so they can start making a habit of gratitude. 

Noticing:

     The first step in any journey is awareness. You have to start recognizing the things you have to be grateful for before you can start being grateful. And this is true regardless of age. Maybe your child already see's the good in their lives but maybe this is still a work in progress. Parent's can lead by example and offer guided questions to foster increased awareness of the great things in their life outside of their power. Here are some examples to get you going -

• What do you have in your life that you are grateful for?
•  Are 'things/objects/gifts' the only thing you have to be grateful for?
• What gifts have you been given that you can't physically hold in your hand?
• Are you grateful for any of the people in your life? 
• Why are you grateful for him/her?

Questions like these help your child learn to recognize that there is so much more to be thankful for then just physical gifts. Helping them realize this early on will help them be less materialistic, selfish, and more self aware.

Thinking:

     Once your child or teen begins to start noticing unprompted all the people and things that help make their life great it's time to start teaching them to think about why have they been giving those things. Ask them questions like

• Why do you think you received this gift?
• Do you think you should do something in return?
• Do you think you earned this gift?
• Did the giver have to give you that gift?

As they start to realize they cannot do enough or be enough to earn all the kindness and love they are receiving they start to value those personalized gifts and effort even more than before. Now their gratitude for gifts, acts of service or love and the time people invest in them is starting to take wing.

Feeling:

     Gratitude is an emotional experience. It is so much more than a hurried thank you or a quick note of appreciation. And it can drastically impact your overall happiness and satisfaction in life. Isn't that what every parent wants. So start asking pointed questions to help them connect their positive feelings to the gifts they've received.

• How you feel when you received this gift?
• What about the gift makes you feel happy?
• How can you share your joy and excitement with them?
• Are there ways you can pass that joy and happiness on?

Doing:

     Gratitude is an experience that is meant to be shared and expressed. And there are so many fun ways to do that regardless of age. So whether you a family who writes thoughtful thank you(s), pays it forward, makes heartfelt gifts, does random acts of kindness, or shows your gratitude with some quality time and memories together, make sure you lead by example and teach your kiddos that the final part of gratitude is doing something about what you're feeling. After all the best feelings in life are meant to be shared and expressed. You've got this Warrior parents!

#RaiseAWarrior 

Time And The Parenting Paradox

     Today's world is very acquisition based. What do I get out of doing "X"? But what if in fact we don't need more? Sure, a nicer car, more pay, more savings would all be nice. But to get more we usually have to give more. And at this point most of us are spread pretty thin. So what if instead we choose less? What if we chose to be choosier with the things we took on so we could be more productive with our time and carve out more space for our family? Still undecided? Well let us put it this way...

     Parenting is challenging. Each stage has it's own unique set of hurdles and so we constantly tell ourselves that this part of parenting may be tough, but it's going to get easier. And so we constantly look forward to the next goal post or level of independence our child will develop. We use this thought to motivate us during the hard times. But the parenting paradox is that all that we wish for will come true and then some. For our children are only young once. There will be a last time that they have an accident, throw a fit in public, and are unable to strap themselves into the car. It's a magnificent thing, but also terrifying. Because if one day those will end so too will the times when your child holds your hand, or falls asleep in your arms. One day you will wake up and they will want to hang out with their friends more than you. All along we push ourselves, saying this job will get easier and that one day our children won't need us as much. But too often, when it comes true, we realize that we needed that time with them as much as they need time with us. So instead of solely focusing on the freedoms the next developmental stage of parenting brings us, let's ask ourselves "If I continue with my current routine what will I regret the most?" Because our child spells love the same way we do: in quality time. So this week we offer some simple steps to make the most of your time together (no matter how brief).

Put The Phone Away

     Our phone use has become habitual. It isn't even a conscious thing anymore to pull it out and absentmindedly scroll. It's soothing. But our children are very observant. Checking our phone during our quality time with them sends a message that this little device and the things on it are more important to us than they are. And that is definitely not the message we want to send our child. So prioritize your family over electronics and other devices. Have a no device rules on family outings. Invest in a real camera if you don't think you can help using your phone beyond a memory maker. Use car rides as a chance to connect and draw closer, rather then delve into our own little world. Every single one of our moments together can be precious if we make it so.

Talk To Them

     Much of what we do is done on autopilot and this includes connecting with our family. Our conversations should have meaning and depth. We shouldn't settle for the superficial. We should be checking in on each other, learning about one another, and helping push each other towards our dreams. We can't do this by asking how their day was and settling for "It was fine." Get creative with your conversation starters. Ask what the funniest part of their day was? Ask what made them smile? Ask if they saw or did a random act of kindness? And model this kind of personal conversation in the other relationships you're a part of. Our children learn much about connection and openness by our interactions with our significant others so don't settle for simply superficial with them either.

Choose To Play

     Play is such a magical part of childhood. And with the right nurturing it can mature into an adventurous and fun loving spirit that you can continue to share with your family later on. So why is it we pass up these moments of loving connection? At the park, during sporting events, at a play date the adults can be found sitting around glued to a screen or chatting with other parents. And while it's important to foster parent to parent relationships, it isn't of greater value than investing time with your family. So shake off the tiredness. Even if it's just for 10-20 minutes. Playing with your family may take some energy out of you, but it always puts a smile on your face and is a small price to pay for an experience of connection. So play with your family. Be silly with your family. Those flights of fantasy and creativity show a peek into their personality and might even creak open old parts of yours.

      So there you have it- a quick little intro to the parenting paradox. Time is ticking away and it is okay to be selfish about it. Our children naturally gravitate more and more towards their peers as they grow so make the most of every second. Get your life together enough to start taking advantage of these moments. Stop wishing away this parenting journey. We may intermittently want an easier life, but easier isn't always better. There are adventures out there and memories to be made. So make every second count and they just might want to keep adventuring with you. You've got this Warrior parents!

#RaiseAWarrior 

Leveling Up Spring Break Without Electronics

     Spring Break is fast approaching and we're getting excited! Now a break for us parents can mean a variety of things. Sometimes its an adult only vacation... oh right, wishful thinking there, sorry guys. So no matter your plans for Spring Break, be it near to home or far from it, we hope you take this chance to enjoy a little break from routine. I mean who doesn't want a week of loosening the reigns and indulging a little more than usual in fun and food?

     Spring break is also a perfect opportunity to grow, create memories and be truly present with one another. And whether they're asking for it verbally or not deep down what your child craves most is quality time with you. No matter their age and sass. These lofty goals, however, can easily be derailed if electronics are not reigned in and become the main focal point and pull on our time during this brief vacation. Now we're not saying increasing your family's device/gaming time on a break is inherently bad. We are just saying it's a slippery slope and would like to help you plan accordingly. So here are some quick reasons why limiting electronics can 'level up' your Spring Break and a quick action plant to make it happen.

Pros of Limiting Electronics on a Break

1. Less of fight to return to school: If we don't completely loosen the reigns on video games/electronics use during the break it will be less of a fight when we have to get the kiddos back to school ready. And who could blame a child for rearing their tiny heads and rebelling if we don't have some limits? Going from doing whatever you want straight into a very strict and busy routine is hard for everyone no matter the age. It's why many of us plan a recovery day or two after a vacation before jumping back into work.
2. Stronger Bonds: When we make concentrated efforts to be present and do things together we are building each other up and strengthening bonds. This in turn leads to less arguing as we are more attentive to each other's needs and emotions when we've been consistently investing our time in each other.
3. Less sibling arguments: Every household has routines. Even our pattern of arguing falls into a cyclic form of routine. So by limiting electronics usage in your home you are upsetting that cycle. And it takes some time for our children to adapt to that. The primary focus of most sibling arguments in today's world center around some sort of device. "It's my turn to play." "He's cheating." "She killed me when we had a truce." "You picked yesterday, it's my turn."So by limiting the primary focus of most of their arguments there will in fact be more peace in your home. This is a big plus since you all have more time on your hands and together than usual.

Ways to Level Up Your Spring Break

1. No Devices Before Dark: To attempt a device free spring break is too big a fight to be worth it. Plus we all know that forbidden items become the focus of our attention. It's just human nature to want what we can't have. Moderation, however, is a healthy compromise. Rather than turn video games into a forbidden temptation, this rule allows you to emphasize other activities (at least while the sun is shining). So make it the week's goal and commit to it as a family. Use those daylight hours to create, play, read, explore. Get outside. Get active. Take a walk. Feed the ducks. Do those things you always wish you had time for. Spring is too beautiful a season to spend all day cooped up and vegging out in front of a TV. So save the screen time for after dark.

2. Let Everyone Plan A Perfect Day/Activity: Our day to day life is often too busy for little adventures and making special memories. And to be honest with what free time we have us adults are in charge. This Spring Break let the kids take charge and be responsible for creating their own entertainment. You can do this one of two easy ways. By either (A) keeping it strictly within the home or (B) planning a hometown outing. The rules are simple. Basically each person in your household picks an activity (or an outing if you're doing the hometown version) that they enjoy. If you want more power over this family day they can list their top three ideas and then you ultimately decide. These activities don't have to be over the top extravagant either, because when you cram everyone's favorite activity into a single day it leads to something truly magical. Be it a picnic with movie theater popcorn in your backyard, family bowling tournament and then froyo, your possibilities truly are limitless. So have some fun with it and make some memories planning the ultimate hometown family outing. 

     Overall Spring Break will be as magical, adventurous, and memorable as you want. So as a family strive to disengage from those ordinary routines. Don't let electronics babysit and steal this precious time away. Let's vow to do something extraordinary with this week. It will take some planning and some parental regulations on screen time, but with some guided nudging in the right direction it truly could be a freeing childhood experience. 

#RaiseAWarrior 

Building Good Habits With Your Warrior: Gratitude

     Last week we shared great reasons and benefits of making gratitude a habit in your home. Now it's time to make an action plan, because a goal without a plan is just a wish. So this week we wanted to share some simple ways for you and your family to make having an attitude of gratitude the norm in your home. Because gratitude is a mindset it doesn't take much to switch. Just some concentrated effort. So here are five steps (that take 10 minutes or less to complete) that will help you build this habit with your family and start having a happier home life today...

Recognizing Life's Roses:

     Having a moment of thanks each day with our family is so important. It's a great opportunity to decompress, share the highlights of the day, and check in with each other. And with regular practice, some good can be found in even the darkest of days. One way this can regularly be done is when the family is gathered at dinner time. Growing up I had a friend who's family shared the "roses" of their day at dinnertime. Essentially the things that made us happy and we were grateful for were life's roses. Their family made it a goal to 'stop and smell (or reflect on) the roses' at each meal they were gathered too. You could also share a thorn of the day (or something that wasn't good), but only if you shared a rose before and after so everything ended on a good note. This practice is a simple and fun one that helps teach a child to count their blessings and recognize the silver linings in life. It's human nature to see the glass half-empty from time to time -- our kids are no exception. But when we cultivate an attitude of gratitude in our home we are recognizing that life is about perspective more than circumstance. This habit teaches resilience and helps us refocus on the positives in life that are often overlooked.

Thank You Notes Matter:

     Handwritten thank you notes are becoming a dying art. But it truly is a perfect way to encourage kids to express their gratitude in a creative way. And there are so many opportunities to thank another for doing something special for us throughout the year. Coaches, teachers, families who host sleep overs, after a birthday party, a hand written note or picture goes a long way towards spreading joy and sharing your gratitude. Plus it's one of those habits that if you start them young, your child will naturally carry throughout life. So keep thank you notes in your home. Set an example by writing a few of your own throughout the year. After all, the world needs more kindness in it so strive to raise a child who leaves other's better than they found them.

     

Gratitude Journals:

     There are a lot of studies that show happy, successful people, take the time to keep a journal. Whether this is a few quick bullet points throughout the week of highlights or a list of things that make you happy, having something you can look back on during life's lows has so many benefits. So take the time to reflect on the good things going on in your life. No matter how things are going it definitely boosts your mood when you practice gratitude. Plus having a journal filled with your child's wishes, blessings, and drawings is a priceless keepsake that both of you can enjoy for years to come. And who know... if you get into the habit your child might also cherish these insights into you as you both grow older.

Give "Things" In Moderation:

     We want to make our children happy. It's a part of being a good parent. From the time they first looked up at us, grasped our hand, said our name, or said "I love you" it has been one of our main goals. We want to give our children the best we can-- all the things we loved from our childhood and all the things we wished had been a part of ours. But there is a lot of worth in moderation. Buying all the things does not replace missed time and experiences shared with your loved ones. So yes, give what you can to your child, but don't feel like they need the newest iPhone or gaming system. Those material things will have greater worth to them if given in moderation. When a child sees what it takes to have all those things they will appreciate it more, than if their every whim and wish is granted seemingly from thin air. As they get older having a child chip in their own money towards a goal is also a great way to teach gratitude and help them respect the hard work that is demonstrated in order for them to have the things they want. Growing up we had to save our own money for souvenirs on vacations. Only one souvenir we wanted would be covered during the entire trip by our parents. This made us appreciate our covered souvenir and the hard work of saving/having money so much more because when you're going on a three week road trip there's no time to turn back for that stuffed bear that is now 100+ miles away. So put the emphasis less on things and take the time to recognize the work that it took for it to get there.

     

Self Gratitude:

     Finally this last one is specifically for you parents. A lesser known form of gratitude is self-gratitude or self-care. Practicing self-care is about being grateful for yourself, what you have, and this marvelous life around you. By making this a habit, you can shift your thinking to be more positive and grateful overall. So focus on self care once a week. Treat yourself just because. And don't feel like this is a purely monetary treat. Set aside some time to do something that brings you joy. Whatever your passion or way to unwind we want you to spend a few selfish moments with yourself. We parents work hard and our family needs us far beyond normal business hours. So take a moment to fill yourself up. We fill others best, when we ourselves are filled. So take a grateful moment for yourself to be the priority, take a moment to breathe and refresh. This is important not just for you, but for your family as well. So take the time to fill yourself up, then
                                                                                                         you can return to your life and duties refreshed and with a grateful heart.

     So there you have it. A quick list of easy actionable steps that will help you and your family make gratitude a habit. And speaking from experience, we had our adult students and instructors focus on gratitude for a 30 day Alpha Goals challenge this year and the results were amazing. When you take a moment to recognize how many things you have to be grateful for that you previously took for granted you will be amazed at the change in your outlook and happiness level. So take those first steps to become happier and healthier. Go be stronger and more grateful from here on out. This isn't just pretty words dumped neatly into a blog. This is a call to greatness and a simple step towards making the rest of your life better.

#RaiseAWarrior 

The Power of Gratitude

     Here at Warrior's Way we love the holiday season. Not just because of the traditions and some time off, but for the precious family centered time we get to enjoy. However, amidst all the hustle and bustle of the holidays it is far too easy to let that precious time pass us by, to forget the true meaning of the season, and get caught up in all the to-dos we've got to get done. So this Thanksgiving we want to help you and your family slow down a little. Because gratitude and being thankful is so pivotal to our happiness. And it is so much more than simply teaching our kids to say "thank you." Gratitude goes far beyond good manners... it's a mindset and a lifestyle that has countless benefits. So over the next two weeks we want to share with you 1) some reasons why instilling gratitude in your Little Warrior should be a priority and 2) ways to start making gratitude a regular habit for you and your family.

It Increases Joy:

     Gratitude is one of the most important keys to finding success and happiness in today's world. It is necessary because we live in a world where we have a highlight's reel of picture perfect life and families being pushed in our faces 24/7. This constant comparison is a thief of joy and can lead to many mental health problems, insecurities, and depression. Gratitude is the cure for that, no matter our age. Knowing what we appreciate in life means we know who we are, what matters to us, and what makes each day worthwhile. It puts us in a positive frame of mind, keeps us centered and in line with our purpose, and connects us to the world around us. It is proven to help individuals live happier more satisfied lives, as well as enjoy increased levels of self-esteem, hope, empathy and optimism. So before your child is overwhelmed by the peer pressure present in school and social media, make sure you are working to build a sound foundation of gratitude in their heart.

It Builds Perspective:

     We lead a very privileged life and it shows in the growing entitlement of successive generations of youth. Us parents are a part of this growing problem. I mean if we look at all the great stuff we provide for our kids... outings, activities, gifts, vacations, material possessions... the list goes on and on. We fill their time with joy and their room with all the latest gadgets with little to no effort on their part. And a child that grows used to getting stuff without knowing or caring where it comes from will walk through life with that continued expectation. Life doesn't just give us creature comforts out of thin air and it is important for a growing child to recognize that. So don't do less for them or withhold all the awesome things you can provide. But make sure we curb all these gifts and experiences with a little gratitude. When a child is taught to practice gratitude it helps them develop a healthy understanding of how interdependent we are as a family unit, and that many opportunities come to us because of the work done by another. This understanding expands a growing child's vision outside of their own world and helps them understand yet another reason for why we should treat others with genuine respect at all times and in all places.

It Strengthens Relationships:

     When we practice a regular attitude of gratitude we tend to notice the things around us more. This includes being more aware of the amazing people in our life. It helps us see how much their hard work and effort impacts our life for the better. Because we are more readily aware of others we tend to acknowledge and thank them more. This fills others up and helps foster stronger, more positive, healthy, and genuine relationships in our life. So if you want to improve the atmosphere in your home or lessen bickering between siblings a regular attitude of gratitude can go a long ways towards fostering that.

It Counteracts the Gimmes:

     Finally a daily practice of gratitude opens our eyes to the who's and what's that make the positive aspects of our lives possible. When a child is taught to consistently think in those terms they are less likely to make mindless, selfish demands. We've all seen those kids in the store. Constantly throwing temper tantrums and demanding more and more of their parents even after they've won their first request. It is easy to get caught up focusing on what we don't have no matter our age. So put the focus on gratitude and appreciating what you have right now. This removes comparison from the equation and leads to much greater long term satisfaction and happiness.

     So no matter where you are on your gratitude journey we know that if you take some concentrated effort, as a family, to count your blessings you will notice increased happiness, happier relationships, and less complaining in your home. I don't know about you, but that sounds like a win to us. So invest the added time and effort in teaching your child true gratitude this holiday season. Not only does it benefit everyone now, but it also arms your child with the emotional strength and fortitude to make it through life's times of plenty and times of hardship with grace and a grateful heart. 

Stay tuned for next week's article on ways to make gratitude a habit in your home!

#RaiseAWarrior 

Gratitude: In the Holidays and Beyond

     Looking around at today's culture we can clearly see evidence of a growing trend that is sub-optimal to say the least. More and more young people are growing up, feeling that the world genuinely revolves around them. So how do we curb this growing me epidemic in a culture that is all about selfie?? As parent's we can easily recall times when we felt frustrated or embarrassed by how ungrateful our child has been in moments past. We also know, realistically that life is hard and can't be relied on to gift our child's every heart's desire and whim. So how do we ensure our children truly learn to appreciate all they have? A grateful attitude is so much more than training our littles to recite a polite "thank you" to friends and family. At this time of holiday cheer we know that gratitude, especially when practiced daily, brings so much added joy to our lives. So how do we make grateful hearts the underlying theme in our home in this season of thankfulness and beyond? We scoured the internet and hope that the following ideas will make the upcoming holiday season that much brighter and better.

     So first things first, you've recognize the need for more gratitude in your child. Now the hard part. We have to truly take a look at our own actions and how they play into this. I mean we do all this great stuff for our kids... outings, activities, gifts, the list goes on... we fill their time with joy and then the second we are home the whining and complaining begins again with full force. Our frustration is almost instantaneous. Can't they see we work so hard for them?! This cycle of us trying to fulfill our child's every desire, ungrateful whining, and frustration begins again and again. But the truth is we don't have to do all these things for them. We live in a world where picture perfect parenting is pushed into our face 24/7 and so like any peer pressure gimmick we feel the need to do more, buy more, and be more for our child. The truth is it is ok for a child to want non-necessities or for there to be a regular delay in gratification. If you aren't happy with your child's behavior look first to your role in the situation.


     Luckily for us our children becoming needy and demanding is not inevitable. Nothing is set in stone and even the most distractible, still developing child can be set on the right path and taught to be thankful for the blessings in their life. Gratitude is more than just words or even a behavior, it is an internal experience and an overall outlook on life. It involve us not only NOTICING the things people give or do for us, it involves us THINKING about why the would show us such care, connecting that with how we FEEL about receiving such kindness, and then DOING something to express our appreciation. The key to our children developing an attitude of gratitude is for them to start NOTICING, THINKING, FEELING, and then DOING something about it.
   
     This plus a daily effort to count our blessings will lead to better quality of relationships all around as well as increased happiness and less complaining in your home. I don't know about you, but that sounds like a win to us. So invest the added time and effort into teaching your child the principle of gratitude. Not only will it benefit everyone now, but it also arms your child with the emotional strength and fortitude to make it through life's times of plenty and times of hardship with grace and a grateful heart.

We hope you have the happiest of Thanksgivings this week! 

And we are so incredibly grateful for every single one of you!!!

11 Tips for Instilling True Gratitude in Your Kids

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Halloween Safety

Halloween is a magical time full of spooks, ghouls, and pumpkin fun. Kids absolutely love it. The trick or treating, classroom parties, costumes, and sugar rush all instantly make Halloween our kiddo's favorite. For parents there is often a fine line between Halloween fun and safety concerns. Here's a great post with quick tips on how to keep this spooky holiday from being a scary one.

We hope you have an AMAZING Halloween!

15 trick-or-treating safety tips to ensure a happy and healthy Halloween

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