Parenting Q&A

These questions were posed and later answered by our RS sisters during our parenting series several months ago.

How do you stay positive when you are overwhelmed with a new baby?

• call your mom, visiting teacher, or friend for support
• get out of the house
• trade babysitting with another mom
• exercise
• take a shower
• do your hair and makeup every day
• pray
• listen to uplifting and fun music

How can I foster reverence in my home, and especially during sacrament meeting?

• practice whispering and folding arms at home
• bring quiet activities: coloring books, quiet books, Church magazines, etc.
• if you have to leave the chapel, do not allow your child to get down or have fun
• encourage sitting with the family

What are some reward systems for teenagers?

• control cell phone usage and other electronic privileges
• balance consequences with rewards
• acknowledge progress and let them choose their reward

What do you find is the best way to foster a loving, close relationship between siblings?

• encourage working together, share chores
• serve each other
• separate siblings as needed
• teach them how to resolve their own problems

If a child is turned around bothering your child in sacrament meeting, what can you do?

• sit in the front row or back row
• tell your children that they cannot talk to them right now but they can after the meeting
• bring extra quiet activities to share

How do you motivate a teenager?

• make things a competition or game
• explore their interests
• reward with extra freedoms
• validate the positive behaviors, offer praise

How do you encourage Personal Progress or Duty to God without causing a reluctant child to rebel?

• combine with another family
• break it down so it’s not so overwhelming
• incorporate it into FHE
• use the missionaries

In wanting to keep an “open-door” policy, how do I set boundaries for my married children?

• request for them to call ahead before coming over
• manage set times, as in when it is too late
• spend quality time with each one on separate days
• have a family dinner once a week

How do you help your grandchildren to get closer to the church without hurting their feelings or their parents’ feelings?

• bring them to church activities
• set a good example
• pray for guidance