A lot of scary things have happened to me. Living, though, requires facing our anxieties head-on. And by sharing these four things with my kids, I show them how to conquer their fears.

1. Fear can be good.

Fear, when channeled appropriately, can serve as a discipline. Learn to distinguish between good and bad things.

2. Don’t let fear keep you from trying things.

A healthy dose of fear is good for you, but if you let your guard down, you’ll miss out on some exciting experiences. Get out there and do what makes you happy; fear will never stop you. Have the guts to go where you’re afraid to go.

3. Don’t fear being different.

Our children must triumph over this formidable obstacle. No matter what society says, I want my children to be who God made them to be, not what society thinks they should be.

4. Overcoming fear will make you stronger.

Instinctively, we all experience fear. Overcoming fears, though, makes us stronger in the end. Despite our fears, we get stronger and more capable of overcoming obstacles with each step ahead.

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This holds some wisdom. As parents, it is our duty to protect our children from harm so that they can grow up to be strong and independent. However, evading danger is not the same as navigating it. We have tried to build a world free of danger for our children far too often in our efforts to shield them from harm. This strategy has two major flaws.

New Parenting Perspective

Taking risks makes people nervous, but staying safe means you’ll never know who you are, as Danish philosopher Soren Kierkegaard put it. since achieving great heights requires a keen awareness of one’s own identity. Adventure is a necessary component of a complete and meaningful existence. Nevertheless, if we want our children to have adventurous lives, we must constantly tell them not to be scared.

1. Teach them they are loved.

Knowing you are loved sincerely gives you incredible strength. Find out how to show your child that you love them in a way that resonates with them, even if it’s different from how you feel about it.

2. Model an adventurous and meaningful life.

Motivate your children by taking on a challenge that relates to a greater narrative. Look for a 5K that raises money for a good cause, and you and your child can train to run it. Put a lot of money into a cause that means a lot to you as a family (let your kid have a say in which one) and have them work for a part of it. Going on a family trip to a national park can allow your youngster to experience the beauty of nature firsthand, whether it’s by hiking in the mountains or taking in the breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon. If you want your child to learn about the bravery and perseverance of actual people, you should take them to Ellis Island, Gettysburg, or somewhere along the Underground Railroad.

3. Encourage failure.

Too frequently, we instill in our children, either consciously or unconsciously, the belief that failure is the worst possible outcome. It is not true. We gain wisdom when we take risks, make mistakes, and then succeed again. Do not save your children when they are in trouble; instead, let them take on difficult tasks on their own. You can teach children a lot by assisting them when they fall short, and one of those lessons is that it’s okay to try again. Prior to sending them out for a second attempt.

4. Prepare them.

Get your children talking about limits and how to set them. Show them the ropes of giving and receiving money generously. Enroll them in a self-defense course. Assist them in developing strong friendships. Luke was made to train by Yoda. Send them on expeditions only when they’re ready.

5. Share your stories.

Can you think of instances when you faced your fears head-on and emerged victorious? Talk to your kids about your experiences, both the good and the bad.

ALSO READ: Setting Goals and Taking Risks

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We should tackle this problem directly. iMOM is here to assist you in selecting the most suitable parental control app for your family’s requirements. Consider these five, in addition to a few more apps tailored to specific needs. To help you choose which one is best for your family, many offer free trials.

MamaBear

In order to help parents communicate, find, organize, and safeguard their children, MamaBear has created a private family communication hub.

This app was hand-picked because MamaBear has so many useful features, such the ability to share family news, keep tabs on social media, track where your teen driver is, and alert you if they are speeding or in a car with a speeding driver.

Bark

Bark scans your messages across 24+ platforms to identify instances of cyberbullying, explicit material, sexual predators, vulgarity, thoughts of suicide, and more.

ALSO READ: Screen Time Rules You Must Have

Reasons for its inclusion: Notifications are sent to parents solely in the event that something inappropriate happens on the internet. Building trust and an open channel of communication with your child while sparing you the labor of reading every social contact they have is possible with this method.

Qustodio

You can keep an eye on, manage, and secure your child’s smartphone using this software.

Reasons for its inclusion: In private browsing mode or not, Qustodio still restricts apps or inappropriate information. Additional features include the ability to limit your child’s app and game usage, see their call and text history, create a blacklist of contacts, and keep tabs on their YouTube activity.

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I would be more trusting if I could rely on the app’s age rating or the fact that parents of my classmates let their children use it, but unfortunately, these factors are insufficient. My research is here to help if you need it, but ultimately, every mother must use her best judgment.

1. Bigo Live

Similar to TikTok, Bigo Live is an app that users may download for free. It allows users to create video blogs or stream their daily activities with the goal of making money from their videos. However, it differs from the rest because it allows users to work together in a joint broadcast. The app’s main feature is its status system, where users can achieve higher rankings by logging in daily and offering presents to other users.

Due to the lack of age verification and the need for personal information to create an account, Bigo Live is not a suitable software for children. There have been allegations of harassment, threats, assault, and sexually explicit language. A highly shallow, self-absorbed atmosphere is fostered by the emphasis on status and leveling up.

2. BitLife

Here we have a text-based program that lets you begin your virtual existence as a randomly generated character and gives you choices as you get older. The level of sophistication of the questions and answers increases in proportion to your character’s age.

A night out, a trio, illicit substances, and murder are among topics covered in the Q&A. Clicking on “Bitlife Community” takes viewers to other sites, such as a relevant YouTube channel, a Reddit forum, and a TikTok account.

3. Game Pigeon

An iMessage addon called Game Pigeon lets users play games with two players right in the iMessage app. In principle, your child and grandma might play checkers on Game Pigeon using their respective phone numbers or Apple IDs.

4. Houseparty

With the social networking software Houseparty, as many as eight users can participate in a single video chat “room.” Rooms can be endlessly added and removed by users. Its popularity skyrocketed amid the outbreak.

Users are able to capture screenshots and share links to the live video. Even if you’re invited to a room with just one friend, it doesn’t mean you’ll know everyone else there.

5. IMVU

My name is Instant Messaging Virtual Universe, or IMVU for short. By customizing their avatars, players can interact with other players in both public and private spaces. That’s the point of the game; when you’re bored, things go wrong, just like in real life.

ALSO READ: Encourage Organic Thinking In Your Children

There are explicit sexual encounters and nudity in the 18+ zones, but the majority of avatars wear skimpy attire and use mature language all over the place. With the “Chat Now” feature, users can be randomly paired with other users, and all profiles are public.

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However, research shows that children who spend more than two hours a day in front of screens have trouble focusing, a talent that is essential for success in school and the workplace. Their social and emotional abilities deteriorate. Problems like gambling and pornography can easily take hold of their lives when they’re online. Now is the moment to establish some ground rules. The following are five suggestions for limits on screen usage that both parents and children should adhere to.

1. Screen time is a privilege.

It is possible to confiscate computers. It is possible to power down televisions.  Confiscation of cell phones is possible. The amount of time a youngster spends in front of a screen is a personal choice that parents make for their children. Therefore, take a stand against excessive screen time, particularly for youngsters under the age of two.

2. Screen time is a choice.

If your children are uninterested, overly chatty, or otherwise a nuisance, you shouldn’t give in to their demands for screen time. Set a daily limit for your child’s screen usage and don’t budge.

3. Screen time doesn’t mix with company.

The screens are switched off whenever your guests arrive. No one uses a screen while dining out with relatives.

4. Screen time is not private.

Because it protects your children from potential internet predators, this screen time suggestion ranks high among the most important. Every single thing that happens on the television is visible to Mom and Dad. That means parents can read texts, keep tabs on what their children are doing online, approve of what they watch on TV, and prohibit screens in the restroom.

5. Screen time has no place at the table.

A meal is a great opportunity to catch up with loved ones, tell tales about your day, and model appropriate social behavior. The use of screens prevents all of that from happening. Here are eight ideas to help you and your children enjoy mealtimes more.

ALSO READ: When to Intervene in Your Child’s Friendships

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They engaged in organic thinking, which involved coming up with ideas on their own without the use of gadgets. Another option would be to present ideas and concepts in the hopes of generating organic ideas.

“Hey, Megan, did you notice that gorgeous tree with the pink flowers?” I would ask as we drove to kindergarten. Also, check out that adorable little black and white puppy. How about a dog as well?

1. Let Them Speak Their Mind

Give your kids the chance to talk to you. Keep in mind the little characters from “The Sound of Music” film. In the first scene of the film, the kids are essentially expected to follow directions without question.

ALSO READ:  How to Handle Your Child’s “Frenemy”

The golden rule should be to listen politely while your children share their thoughts and desires with you, even though this is essential in some aspects of parenting. If you’re looking for conversation starters, try our TALK Conversation Starters.

2. Expose Them to New Things and Ideas

Live each day as an adventure. Take them to live concerts, art exhibits, and book signings so you can share what you’ve been reading.

3. Ask Questions

Ask them questions such, “So why do you think that boy acted that way?” while reading aloud or reading with them. (Check out one of the titles we recommend!) Get their take on things as they come up in the news. Take a look at our Q & U app for additional questions.

4. Let Them Figure It Out

Do not intervene or give them instructions every time they make a mistake. They need to learn that putting on pants makes it easier to put on shoes. Give them the benefit of the doubt. (If you’re having trouble taking a step back, check out our 10 methods for teaching your kids to solve problems.)

5. Go Tech-Free

They may be having an easier time of it than you are. They may be the ones begging you to give them your iPad or phone, but you still have to pay attention to them! I can assure you that removing technological devices from your children’s lives will help them think more naturally. While you’re away, they can gaze out the window of the automobile. Discuss the many hues used on food packaging while shopping. Instead of putting Baby Einstein on, get out some LEGOs or blocks. Playing “brain building” games on a mobile device is no substitute for engaging in real-world activities.

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The guilt I felt over past decisions as a parent finally broke me. I needed to be easy on myself for the poor choices I’d made, but I also wanted to acknowledge that I had loved my kids well and was doing my best to raise them. I designed this mom’s handbook to help you break the cycle of regret by empowering you to make better decisions and enjoy parenthood more fully. All it takes are these four simple steps.

1. Seek guidance.

When you seek and get advice from someone you trust, it becomes much easier to make wise decisions. Those reliable people in my life are God, my sister, and my smart and trustworthy pals. I keep the broader view and my parenting goals in mind when I pray for guidance. By consulting with those closest to me, I am able to hone my plan of action and get insight from their knowledge and expertise.

To round up my analysis, I consult with respected professionals in the field, such as iMOM author Susan Merrill, Dr. Scott Turansky, and Dr. Meg Meeker.

2. Consider your options.

Even our closest friends might unintentionally lead us astray at times. Perhaps they just can’t understand what it’s like to be in our position. When making decisions as parents, we need to feel at ease on two levels: the moral and the motherly. The general public may be approving of X, Y, or Z activities for children. If it doesn’t align with your family’s values, then it’s not a good choice, even though it’s the standard.

3. Move forward.

After you’ve collected everyone’s thoughts, use what you know to make a choice and then act. In addition, overcome your fear of failing before you make a decision. What if the instructor at my son’s school doesn’t appreciate my volunteering? Or the dread of looking foolish. What if my daughter doesn’t make the first squad after I enroll her in a club soccer program? Neither she nor I will be able to face the other mothers at practice without feeling humiliated.

ALSO READ: Things Kids Need to Know to Persevere

When you take action, particularly when you make important decisions, keep in mind that perfection is the enemy of good. Our insistence on always making the best choice can paralyze us and prevent us from ever making a decision.

4. Live and learn.

Both your successful and unsuccessful parenting decisions teach you valuable lessons. Although we can learn more from the excellent ones, we can also get a lot from the terrible ones. Consider alternative courses of action when a decision backfires. Had you already decided what to do before you listened to your friend’s advice? For fear of ridicule or failure, did you go for the safer option, only to realize it was a poor decision?

You already have plenty to feel guilty about as a mom, so there’s no need to dwell on past mistakes; instead, take stock of what you can learn from them and go on. Get ready to make new decisions; you’ll have plenty of chances to do it correctly as a mother, so why not? Put those decisions in the past?

The post The Mom’s Guide to Making Good Choices appeared first on Republic Aeon.

In these precious years before they leave our protective embrace, how can we free ourselves from the burden of managing our children’s lives? To help your youngster learn to make wise decisions, here are two approaches.

1. Let them make mistakes so they can learn through failure while still in our care.

Our own experiences with the foolishness of hastily made decisions have provided us with some of the most formative learning moments. It’s tempting to intervene and repair things so our children don’t have to face the results of their own bad decisions.

ALSO READ:Things Kids Need to Know to Persevere

However, these bad decisions serve as a great opportunity for growth. Start as soon as they start walking, helping them figure out how far the couch is from the coffee table.

Do not intervene unless they are in imminent danger. They will learn how to do better the following time after they fall flat on their face. They can learn a lot about progress through failure with money, especially as they get older. While we were youngsters, I’d set aside money each day for our food budget if we were on vacation. I would set aside a certain amount of money for them to spend on meals every day. The importance of setting a dinner budget became clear after a few instances of overspending on unnecessary items earlier in the day. You get a priceless lesson in budgeting by seeing your sister devour a burger and milkshake while you settle for fries and water.

2. Give them options.

Giving them agency over something, no matter how insignificant, will make them feel strong. For example, “Red cup or blue cup?” could be one of these options. “Shall we read a story together before or after you brush your teeth?” “Would you rather take a shower right now or play your game for another ten minutes?”

Your confidence in your child’s capacity to handle oneself and the value of their perspective are both demonstrated by these decision-making opportunities. When my kids were in middle school, I gave them more freedom to choose when they wanted to go to bed. If they behaved well the following day and did well in class, they may sleep in anytime they want. They had a set bedtime each night, but they could choose when they wanted to go to sleep. Initially, it was challenging since I anticipated that they would remain up far beyond their bedtime and arrive at school exhausted. However, after a few instances, they independently realized the need of getting a good night’s sleep. They would soon be sending themselves off to sleep with a positive “Good night, Mom!” The days of arguing with them about when they should go to bed are over.

The post Ways to Teach Your Child to Make Good Choices appeared first on Republic Aeon.

When you have children, it’s natural to want to shield them from the painful memories of your own life. It may be required of you to step in and help them at times. However, there are instances when it’s more effective to act as a mentor in the corner, advising them on how to handle toxic companions. The way kids engage with others in their formative years shapes their social skills for the rest of their lives. They should know how to interact with a wide variety of people. As a parent, you may set a good example by teaching your child these relational skills.

1. Work side-by-side with your kids.

“What are some ideas to handle this person?” is an example of a question you might ask.  “When they’re nasty, what are your options?” Would you be able to discuss this with the instructor? Tell them what you did when faced with a similar issue. Consider their plight with compassion. Find out if they would like your assistance.

2. Give them a chance to work through their problems.

You should let them try to put their strategy into action once they’ve done so. On a regular basis, inquire as to the progress of the plan. If it’s succeeding, they should rejoice. Provide fresh suggestions or assist in coming up with a different approach if it isn’t working.

3. Have regular conversations regarding their friends.

Discover more about them by inquiring. Come over and play with them. Be sure to observe how they engage with these companions. When they’re around them, does your child behave differently than usual? If that’s the case, talk to your kid about what you noticed when the friend goes. Motivate your youngster to explain their actions to you. You can assist your child understand the impact that person has on them by having conversations like these.

4. Take your child and their friends on outings.

Meet their needs. The way you engage with their friends can tell you a lot about their personality and actions. Also, you never know when you could get a chance to make a positive impact on that child’s life.

5. Keep an eye on your child’s behaviors.

You might have to step in if their behavior suddenly changes drastically. The parent or guardian of the student may need to be consulted. Your youngster may require your support in processing the realization that this friend is harmful to them.

ALSO READ: Benefits of Lemon Tea

The post When to Intervene in Your Child’s Friendships appeared first on Republic Aeon.

It was my natural inclination to want to step in and fix everything. I was aware, though, that she would gain a valuable life lesson if she tackled this task independently. It was still a really tough year, but she survived and emerged stronger. Having learned that lesson in life, she was better prepared for college and her first internship in New York City, where she encountered demanding supervisors. Becoming a strong youngster requires a lifetime of experiences. With these three lessons in mind, we hope to fortify the next generation.

1. Just because you’re down you’re not out.

You are not beaten just because you feel beaten. Our youth must learn that setbacks, when overcome with determination, can actually fortify them. The most important thing is to instill in them the ability to think critically and creatively so that they can evaluate problems and find their own answers. You may show them the ropes with our Problem Solver Challenge. The great thing about this strategy is that kids will gain self-assurance in their ability to overcome challenges as they achieve achievement.

2. Don’t go it alone.

Teaching our children that they are not alone when times are tough is one of the most important things we can do for them. Having faith, relying on parents or knowledgeable friends, or both is completely acceptable. However, moms need to be approachable for this life lesson to work. Try to hear your kids out without jumping to conclusions or giving them orders. It may be enough for them to simply be in your presence at times.

3. Stay calm.

Our children may instinctively react with rage or terror whenever they face a challenging or distressing circumstance. Tell them that when things get rough, it’s better to step back, collect one’s thoughts, and figure out what to do. They won’t get it through this alive if they freak out or point fingers. Indeed, it may cause them to lose time in figuring out how to escape.

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