Feeling frustrated by parents or guardians? Here’s how to switch to gratitude-mode and create good feelings all round.
The adults in your life play an important role in shaping the person you are. Through their encouragement and guidance, they help you to flourish, learn, and grow.
Sometimes, though, you might forget your appreciation for them. It’s easy to see parents or guardians as part of the furniture or, worse, as gatekeepers, stopping you from doing what you’d like to do.
There might also be times when your relationship comes under extra pressure. Perhaps you’ve found yourself falling out after an argument or have felt their decisions are unfair on you.
At these moments, it’s hard not to focus on everything they’re doing ‘wrong’, but there are ways to reset and remind yourself of what you value about them.
WAYS TO SAY THANK YOU
Sometimes it can be tricky to show your appreciation for parents and guardians. Here are six ideas to try:
1 WRITE A NOTE
It doesn’t need to be a full-length thank-you letter, but leaving a Post-it with ‘Thanks for dinner!’ on it might be the lift they need.
2 HELP WITH CHORES
A helping hand with cleaning the dishes, folding laundry, or tidying the house will make life that little bit easier for them.
3 BE KIND.
Something as simple as making a cup of tea or cooking their favourite meal is a great way to show you care.
4 GET IMAGINATIVE
Doing something different together is a way to bond and create new memories. Plus, it’s a welcome change from talking about chores or homework.
5 HUG IT OUT
A warm hug is a gentle way to show your appreciation and can also improve your mood and reduce stress, too.
6 SAY THANK YOU
These two words are small but mighty. Saying thank you is the perfect way to express how you feel by letting your loved ones know how grateful you are for all that they do.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by arguments with a parent or guardian, talk to a trusted adult such as a teacher or a school counsellor.
For more help and advice, you can also visit kidshelpline.com.au.
WORDS: CIARA BEAL
ILLUSTRATIONS: ALISSA THALER
This article was originally published under the title Parent Appreciation in Issue 43 – Finding Your Brave. You can get this issue here to enjoy more mindful inspiration.
