3 Steps to being a more mindful parent

Kara Vermaak. Provisional Psychologist

As a parent, it's understandable that you want to be the best caregiver you can be for your child, but often parents find themselves busy, tired, overwhelmed and unable to connect with their children in the way they’d love to. 

It's important to remember that it’s not about being a perfect parent, but trying to be a more mindful parent. Being a mindful parent is about being present and compassionate with yourself and your child, and this takes practice. 

Practicing mindfulness as a parent can be a powerful tool for enriching your relationship with your child and fostering a deeper sense of connection and understanding. By being more present with your child and practicing non-judgmental awareness, you can create a safe and supportive space for them to explore and grow.

Here are 3 steps to being a more mindful parent: 

1. Practice self-care
As a parent, it can be easy to get caught up in the demands of daily life and neglect your own wellbeing. However, taking care of yourself is essential for being a mindful parent. Make time for activities that nourish your mind and body, such as exercise, eating healthy, or spending time in nature. By prioritizing your own well-being, you'll be better equipped to be present with your children.

2. Practice active listening
Mindful parenting involves being fully present and engaged with your children. One way to do this is to practice active listening. This means giving your full attention to your child when they're speaking, without interrupting or rushing them. Listen to their words, tone, and body language, and respond with empathy and understanding. By truly listening to your child, you can deepen your connection with them and help them feel seen and heard.

3. Practice non-judgmental awareness
Mindful parenting involves being aware of your own thoughts and emotions, as well as those of your child. Rather than reacting to challenging situations, try to approach them with non-judgmental awareness. This means observing your own thoughts and emotions without judgment or criticism, and responding with kindness and compassion. By modelling this kind of awareness and acceptance for your child, you can help them develop a healthy relationship with their own thoughts and emotions.
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Remember to be gentle with yourself as you cultivate your mindfulness practice. It's okay if you have moments of distraction or judgment - that's all part of the learning process. The important thing is to approach each moment with curiosity and compassion, and to continue practicing even when it feels a little challenging.

For more support, please reach out and book an appointment with one of our friendly psychologists

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Kara Vermaak. Provisional Psychologist

Kara supports children, adolescents and their families at our Belmont office. She works holistically with clients, drawing from various evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). 
She embraces diversity and enjoys working with clients across the lifespan. Everyone has unique strengths to harness in their mental health and wellbeing journey, and she works with clients to discover and use these strengths to foster their resilience and achieve their chosen goals.