Crème de la Crème Families,

With 2021 coming to a quick close, it is super easy to get caught up in all that we still have left to do within our busy daily schedules. Tasks and errands do not stop because it is the holiday season. Laundry, cooking and baths still set off your inner alarm clock with no snooze in sight. Your To Do list that once used to fit on a small piece of paper with plenty of room left over, now resides on an 8 ½ x 11 piece of paper…front and back. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all that this season brings but remember to take a moment and allow yourself to breathe.

As parents, we have dealt with many Academy Award winning tantrums that left us physically, emotionally and mentally drained. I for one, remember thinking how exhausting it all was, and how I needed to prepare myself for the next one which was surely to come right around the bedtime hour. I realized at that moment that not only did my daughter need some calming time, but I did too. It’s ok to take some “me” time throughout your day to clear your mind and revisit any issues.  

We are constantly teaching our kiddos calming strategies to help regulate their feelings and possible reactions. We talk to them about different types of feelings and how it’s ok to feel the way they do. We try to help navigate their reactions so that they learn about empathy and can resolve conflict. So perhaps we heed this advice and apply it to our parental status. With busy work schedules, an on-going pandemic and our family “dailies”, it is more important than ever that we look at ourselves and take the time to provide our minds, bodies and souls with self-care.

Whatever your self-care looks like, ensure you take it. Slow down the race mentality and exchange it for a clear mind. While our minds are capable of storing so much information, there are times we need to remove ourselves from a situation and come back with fresh eyes, a fresh mind and some optimistic options. Remember that some days are going to be brighter than others and that’s ok. Perhaps self-care is needed a few more times on the days that are cloudy but realizing it is key. Sometimes all we need is a few moments to slow down and enjoy the little things.

Remember that our children are all different with unique personalities and traits. Indulge in each and every one of them because these children will be our future leaders. We will continue to remind them to be kind and respectful. We will continue guiding them in a path all their own, but it all starts with a healthy mind. Remember to unplug yourself when you need some “me” time and know that you are doing an amazing job at this “raising children” profession.

Stay positive and continue creating memories with your children. Stay safe and healthy.   

Rita Lewis
Vice President of Education and Training
Crème de la Crème