If you’re struggling to connect or even wrangle your kids on any given day, you’re certainly not alone. Today’s hustle and bustle lifestyle seems to work against older parents who might have trouble keeping up with the latest trends and the never-ending energy levels of today’s youth.
That said, it can be disheartening to feel like you’re out of the loop or flat-out sluggish. After all, nobody wants to be labeled as an “old” parent or get the sense that they can’t connect with their kids. There’s no denying that the time that we have without children is both limited and precious, but what can we do when we feel like we can’t make the most of it?
Whether you want to shake the “older” label or simply want to find more energy and opportunities to get closer with your children, keep the following tips in the back of your mind.
Look the Part
Simply put, one of the best ways to bridge the gap between yourself and your kids is rejecting the idea that you’re too old or don’t “look the part” of a parent because of your age.
As a result, cosmetic treatments and updating your wardrobe might be your best bet toward appearing younger and putting a sort of skip in your step. From the different types of dermal fillers to something as simple as regular tanning and spa treatments, small touch-ups here and there can make all the difference in your appearance.
Don’t Compare Yourself to Other Parents So Much
This tip is easier said than done, but the fact remains that you need to accept that there’s going to be a difference between yourself and a parent that’s 15 years younger than you. Although parenthood often does feel like a competition, it’s unhealthy to look at it that way. In short, stop comparing yourself to every parent you know.
Don’t think of your age as a disadvantage in terms of parenting: instead, consider how your life experience and wisdom are pivotal in helping your child during their crucial years.
Take Care of Your Body
There’s no bad time to start focusing on your health; meanwhile, doing so may be the difference between more playtime with your kids and nodding off in the early hours of the evening. You don’t have to totally transform your lifestyle overnight, but you should consider making changes such as…
- Cleaning up your diet: trimming your waistline will provide you with more energy and lessen the likelihood of diseases that could keep you away from your children
- Getting more shut-eye: while you shouldn’t resign yourself to sleeping the day away, having a regularly scheduled nighttime routine ensures that you’re well-rested and ready for anything
- Picking up a fitness-related hobby: whether it’s jogging, bike-riding or yoga, taking the time to get your heart-rate up daily is a major plus
Find Meaningful Ways to Connect With Your Kids
Don’t put the pressure on yourself to be a superparent that’s up for just about anything. Instead, try to find ways to bond with your child that aren’t physically intensive. Whether that means encouraging their hobbies at home or extracurricular activities, the simple act of being there for your kids can make all the difference without sapping you of energy.
Again, be willing to make time for your children and spend less time worrying about being an “older” parent. Instead, find ways to make yourself feel fabulous while spending quality time with your kid first and foremost. Seriously, you’ll thank yourself down the road for doing so.