Self-care Skills
Here at Luna we place a heavy focus on developing self-care skills for everyone in the family. When children are learning self-care skills it looks like getting dressed on their own, feeding themselves, washing their hands, brushing their teeth, bathing, and much more. Often times it can be challenging to let them try when you could just do it for them so quickly, but kiddos need the time and space to practice these skills that come so easy to us.
But it doesn’t end there. Parents need self-care too. We consider self-care beyond regular daily routines. We dive into finding moments of joy for each individual family member to look forward to, instead of only dragging through the basics that have to get done.
Here are some easy ways to start practicing self care skills in your family:
Child Self-Care
Allow enough time: Try getting ready to get out the door a bit early so your child can use those extra three minutes to work on getting a jacket on by themselves, or with only a little bit of help.
Encourage turn taking: Children learn through imitating others. When getting ready in the morning show your child how you brush your hair by pairing words with actions “brush, brush, brush, your turn!” and repeat.
Dress up clothes: This is a fun way to practice putting on and taking off clothes without it being a chore. Then can dress up as a firefighter, doctor, astronaut, baker, and more all while refining their self-care skills.
Consistency: Children thrive off of consistently. It is important to keep routines mostly the same with a little bit of flexibility so they have a good idea of what to expect.
Parent Self-Care
Everyday:
Think of one thing that you can do that you enjoy. This could be as simple as making a cup of coffee, or mowing the lawn. Whatever it is, try to be present in that activity and really thoroughly enjoy it.
Every month:
Try to plan one activity for yourself each month. This is uninterrupted you time. It could be as simple as a walk on the beach, participating in a hobby you enjoy, going to a sporting event, getting your nails done, going on a date, or playing your favorite game. Time passes quickly, make sure there is you time scheduled in so you don’t miss it.
Updated: 04/2024
