If the pandemic has turned you into a helicopter parent, one can hardly blame you.
Helicopter parenting is answering questions for kids who are capable of answering for themselves.
Its mediating disagreements between them and their friends once theyre old enough to do so on their own.
Its demanding the coach put your kid in as the starting pitcher.
Helicopter parenting may spring from good intentions.
(You dont want them to get hurt!
You want them to be high-achievers!
You think they deserve a better position on the team!)
But really, helicopter parenting can apply at any age.
Watch out for actual hovering
Figurative hovering can often manifest itself asliteralhovering.
If they need your help, by all means, help them.
Or leave the room entirely, if the urge is too strong.
But you probably used to have a lot moreyoutime before everything went to hell.
Organize your way out
If youre prone to helicoptering, you may also be pop in-A.
Greatthat means yourealsoprobably a fan of good old-fashioned list-making organization!
Give yourself a timeline for easing them (you) into that.
Start by running inside for a minute to grab a snack or refill a drink.
Next, get started on dinner prep for 10 or 15 minutes while supervising them from the kitchen window.
In time, youll be able to call across the house, Go play outside!
like youve always dreamed.
Baby steps are fine as long as youre moving in a straight line that-a-way.
If we dont let our children take measured risks and be independent, were doing them a disservice.
If you know this is ayouissue and not athemissue, admit that.
And if they do say that, listen to them.
It means youre raising kids who crave independence, and that is the ultimate goal.
Meet the smartest parents on Earth!
Join ourparenting Facebook group.
