Kids learn by example; by what we say and do.
I know this in my mind, as a therapist.
I have said these very words on countless occasions, to parents and educators who have come to see me.
As a mom, do I take my own advice?
I try to. Honestly.
I succeed part of the time.
Between working full-time as a pediatric occupational therapist, parenting three kids between 8 and 6, cooking dinner, spending time with my husband and working on different writing projects (oh, and trying to see my friends here and there!), I often feel as though I am constantly juggling similar yet separate aspects of my life.
Something has to give.
Sometimes, letting my mommy hat fall can be an easy-sounding route.
Especially after a long day at work. Or when they come home cranky off the bus-because they had a long day at school.
Thinking about my children and the transition to back-to-school, routines, transitions (and all that comes with it), I have decided to do a little reset.
I have thus compiled a list of Mommy Resolutions that I am starting now, this very minute, even though it’s not New Year’s (or any holiday that I am aware of-if I’m wrong, please let me know!), and thought I would share it with all my fellow parents, caregivers, teachers, and therapists.
If you have somebody special in your life, these resolutions may apply to you, as well. <3
This list is for me, as much for anyone else reading it. As soon as I’m done writing this article, it’s going up on my fridge, as a daily reminder. I try my best to practice what I preach.
To My Children-I Promise That…:
1. I will not go onto social media, text, or email when we have focused time together. We will simply play.
2. Even after a long day at work, I will breathe in the calm, and breathe out the stress, greeting you with a smile on my face. You’ve had a long day at school, too.
3. When we go to the park or the backyard, I will be right there with you on the top of the slide, and at the next swing; that is, if you want me there.
4. I will try my hardest not to tell you that I am too busy; know that I always, always have time for you whenever you need me.
5. Let’s aim for a dance party at least three one time a week.I’m being realistic.
6. Even though I work during the day, I will try my absolute hardest be there for your plays, graduations, and parties. You are my priority, and I never want you to think otherwise.
7. If I am wrong, I will look you in the eyes and tell you that I am sorry.I will also show you that I am sorry through my actions-just like I tell you to do.
8. I will tell you that I love you every single day. I will list the countless reasons why as often as I can.
9. I will tell myself often to appreciate every smile, sweet word, laugh, and tantrum; you are all growing up so quickly.
10. I will remind myself daily to ensure that each and every one of you wakes up in the morning and goes to bed in the evening knowing with full certainty that you are special, cherished, and loved to the moon and back.
Love,
Mommy
Lauren Brukner is a Senior Occupational Therapist who lives in New York City with her husband and her three children. Lauren has appeared as a guest on The Autism Show, The Manhattan Neighborhood Network’s School-Home Connection, and the Matt Townsend Show on Sirius XM Radio. Her award-winning books have been listed as resources on websites such as Real Simple Magazine, Inc. Magazine, Marie Claire, Everyday Health, AOL’s Health and Wellness, MSN Health, Mothering.com, About.com, and Friendship Circle, as well as numerous school district curricula around the world. Lauren specializes in sensory integration and self-regulation strategies for children and young people, and their implementation in home, school, and community settings. She holds advanced training and certification in Integrated Listening Systems, and is a Certified Screener for Irlen Syndrome/Scotopic Sensitivity. Lauren is the author of The Kids’ Guide to Staying Awesome and In Control and How to Be a Superhero Called Self-Control, which won the gold seal in the Mom’s Choice Awards, 2016 for family friendly media, products and services. Lauren is a contributing writer to The Huffington Post and Autism Parenting Magazine and blogs at www.awesomeandincontrol.com. When she is not writing or ‘therapizing’, Lauren can often be found going on a weekend adventure with her family, having a good dance party with her kids, or curled up with an engrossing book and a great cup of coffee. It all depends on the day.