In the Community

Nurse Rona has two presentations of her popular workshop, Was That Me Yelling?, coming up:

Thursday, January 26, she’ll be at Parents Place in San Rafael. The workshop runs from 6:30 to 8:30 PM. Click here for more information and to register.

Tuesday, January 31, she will be at the Presidio Sports Basement (610 Old Mason Street/Chrissy Field), for the San Francisco Parents of Multiples. For more information, please contact twinpeakstwins@yahoo.com.

Yelling can be caused by stress, depression, anger, and other reasons. Most parents agree that yelling isn’t beneficial, but many report that they just don’t know what to do when their children misbehave. Learn to create a plan about the factors that trigger yelling and develop strategies to yell less.

Tips from Nurse Rona: Economics Are Not Child's Play

Question: I’m not sure if I should tell my 5- and 7-year-old children that we may need to move and find a less expensive house cause I lost my job.

Answer: Kids listen to parents talking on the phone, through the bedroom door, and in the car, when you think they’re not listening. So it’s important to “zip it” and not talk with friends and relatives about your fears and money issues when children can hear you. Yet it is essential to have an honest conversation with your children about the changes your family is dealing with.

Talk with your children in a way that is age appropriate and without the intensity that you’re feeling. For instance you can tell them that because of changes in your work and other adult issues, your family will have less money. Let them known that this is also happening to other people and that the adults are doing their best to work things out. Don’t tell them you are moving until you are sure and have started looking for a new house. Reassure them that you will work hard to find a good new home, and that they will still be able to see their friends. Being honest and hopeful will help reduce your children’s fears

Talk about ways the family can work together:

• You can cook more at home and eat out less. Have your kids plan meals and help you cook. Plant a garden or some pots on the patio with veggies.
• Suggest they go through their books and toys so that someone with less money can have the ones they don’t need anymore. Or have a garage sale and see if the kids can help you raise some money. They will feel good about helping.
• Let them know that they’ll be fine and that the adults will take care of things and get through it.
• Click here for more tips!

Learn More about Childhood Matters and Nuestros Niños