NOT FOUND: first 5 parenting tips.jpgWeather changes and current economic conditions among the challenges families with children ages 0 to 5 may face this winter
While the winter months usually usher in cooler weather and fun activities for many, this season can also create stress and concerns for others. Parenting isn’t easy, so to help families with children ages zero to five cope with challenges they may face this season, First 5 Sacramento is providing its Top 5 parenting tips along with some valuable resources where people can get support.
The seasonal weather change and the down economy can add strain for parents, shorten their patience and test their parenting skills. First 5 Sacramento offers the following effective parenting tips to help relieve stress while investing in your child’s growth:
Take time out for yourself – go somewhere safe until you feel calmer.
Build a support network of family and friends.
Be consistent and create routines – kids need structure.
Simplify routines during stressful times – for example, set out school clothes the night before.
Take care of yourself – exercise, rest and eat well. Model these positive behaviors for your children.
“Our research shows that when parents have the right tools and get the advice they need, children have the best opportunities in life to be fulfilled, healthy citizens,” said Kim Dahl, Acting Executive Director, First 5 Sacramento. “Our goal is to prevent crises from happening and protect children from events that can disrupt their developmental cycle.”
First 5 Sacramento offers resources on a variety of topics including effective parenting, breastfeeding, nutrition, school readiness for children ages zero to five, crisis intervention and more. The organization also works with community partners to increase support of parenting services available to families in the area. Among those is 2-1-1 Sacramento, a free, confidential phone line with information on community, health and social services.
2-1-1 Sacramento offers a one-stop source of information for community services and resources. By dialing 2-1-1, callers can receive personalized information from a live resource specialist about programs and services to help families in many different ways, ranging from access to healthcare or learning effective ways to discipline your children. 2-1-1 is confidential and available in more than 150 languages.
First 5 Sacramento encourages all parents to be aware of their child’s development and share any concerns with a health care professional. For more information on parenting resources or other First 5 Sacramento programs, please call 916-876-5865 or visit www.First5Sacramento.net.
About First 5 Sacramento
In 1998, Californians voted to impose a tax on tobacco products (Proposition 10) and directed those funds to prevention, thus the inception of First 5 Commissions in every county. Careful research and local planning by First 5 Sacramento identified that a multi-pronged approach incorporating direct services and preventative care would facilitate long-term results in supporting the healthy development of young children. Preventative care includes the support of the parents and family, but goes beyond the family unit and household to include extended family, friends and neighbors.