Evenings can sound so lovely … family dinner, playtime, baths, stories, and cuddles. In many households, however, people don’t quite feel like they’re “livin’ the dream.” Quite the contrary, in fact.
Do you need some Happy Family Tips to transform your tired evenings into connected quality time with the family?
Evenings can sound so lovely … family dinner, playtime, baths, stories, and cuddles. In many households, however, people don’t quite feel like they’re “livin’ the dream.” Quite the contrary, in fact.
Many couples I work with tend to “read” each other and make guesses about how their mate is feeling. Fact: they often guess wrong. They mistake stress for grumpiness and tiredness for rejection. I don’t care how long you’ve been with someone, it is still always your job to let your darling know how you’re feeling and what you need.
It might sound like this:
“I have nothing left to give after being with these little people all day. I’m not grumpy, I’m just empty. I need to just sit with your arm around me and have a grown-up conversation. And I need you to ask me about my day.”
“My brain is full after an intense day at work, but once I slow down a little, I’d love to play with the kids and give you a break.”
“I’m kind of irked right now and need some alone time before I’m ready to be a good parent. How can we make that work so that it feels ok for you?”
Imagine if each family evening before you and your loved one showed up at home with young kids needing care and attention, you had a quick phone call to share what kind of mood you’re each in. You wouldn’t have to bother with the frustration that comes with misreading each other’s cues. You might be better able to meet each other’s needs and enjoy each other and your kids.
Single parent? The same holds true, you just have to do this family tip with yourself. Stop and ask yourself how you feel and what you need. If your kids are old enough, you can ask them how they’re feeling and what they need. Maybe everyone needs downtime. Or food right away. Or family evening snuggles. Then figure out how everyone can get their needs met at some point during the evening. Maybe dad needs downtime first and then he’ll be able to play some catch. Or maybe the preschooler needs cuddle time right away, but then agrees to play quietly for 20 minutes while mom sits and unwinds. It’s not always easy, but it is possible for everyone to get their needs met eventually; it just takes some strategizing.
Kerry Stutzman, LMFT, MSW
Parentologist
