Welcome to Home Insemination Kit’s advice column, where we tackle your questions about parenting, health, and everything else that might be puzzling you.
This week, are you finding yourself repeatedly telling your kids “no” while feeling like your family is the only one still taking the pandemic seriously? Are you tired of playing the role of the “bad parent”? You’re certainly not alone.
Do you have queries of your own? Reach out to us through our website.
Dear Home Insemination Kit,
It feels as if my family is the only one adhering to safety measures during this pandemic. My children are struggling; their friends are having sleepovers and gathering indoors without masks. I’m exhausted from consistently being the one who has to say no. I used to feel supported by my parenting community, but that has crumbled recently. It’s tough on me, but even tougher on my kids. Any suggestions?
First of all, despite how isolating it may seem, you are not alone. I completely understand what your family is facing. It feels like I’ve turned into a constant “no” machine lately. It’s draining and frustrating.
Here are a few strategies to help manage the endless negative responses—besides, you know, allowing your child to spend the night in a COVID-filled sleeping bag:
- Instead of flat-out saying “no,” try phrasing it as “not right now.” For example, when we opted for full remote learning while their friends returned to in-person classes, we framed it as “not right now.” If the situation improves, you can reassess your own choices. Conversely, if the case numbers rise, you’ll have been proactive in keeping your family safe.
- Remind yourself that you’re teaching your kids to stand firm in their choices, even when others are not. Just like our parents would challenge us with, “If all your friends jumped off a bridge, would you?” we can tell ours, “If all your friends were swimming in a pool of deadly germs, would you?” It’s effective, right?
- Consider adjusting your support network during this time. You don’t need to sever ties just because your views on COVID safety differ—unless, of course, you have a friend who spreads conspiracy theories about masks; in that case, it’s perfectly fine to say goodbye. Look for other families who share your values and boundaries. Nurturing those connections can be beneficial.
- Lastly, say “yes” whenever you can! If your kids request an extra hour of Xbox time, say yes! A second scoop of ice cream? Go for it! A new puppy? Perhaps hold off on that, but you get the point. Find opportunities to ease up on the rules and say yes more often.
When all else fails, remember: FOMO is easier to bear with a bowl of ice cream in hand. If you’re interested in more insights, check out this post on home insemination, and for expert guidance, visit Intracervical Insemination or Cleveland Clinic’s resource on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary:
Navigating parenting during the pandemic can be challenging, especially when it feels like others aren’t taking safety seriously. Instead of consistently saying “no,” try “not right now” to keep the lines of communication open. Reassess your support network and seek friendships with families that share your values. Additionally, create opportunities to say “yes” to your kids when possible.
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