Helping Stressed Parents in Public

We’ve all seen it…The screaming child wanting candy or a toy and the defiant child that seems frozen in her tracks. Of course, we have also seen the parents of those children whose stress level has reached a new high. In fact, I’m willing to guess those of who are parents have been one of “those parents.” As onlookers, there are several things we can do to help in such situations.

Be Kind – Show kindness to both the child and the parent. A gentle smile can go a long with with smoothing over a difficult situation. Try holding a door open for them and saying “have a great day.” You never know how something so simple can help.

Praise – Offer some form of praise to the parent or the child. A positive comment about a pretty dress or handbag may offer just enough of a distraction to stop the negative behavior. Or, at least slow it down so Mom or Dad can catch their breath and have a clear thought.

Offer Help – Offer to help by opening a door for them or carrying a bag for them. Letting a parent know that you are willing to help can do wonders for them. This will also teach the child that there is someone willing to help them.

Show Empathy – Show empathy to both the child and the parent. “I don’t like shopping either,” can let a child know that they aren’t the ones feeling like they do. “I remember my child at that age” will let the parent know they aren’t alone.

Avoid Negativity – Avoid negativity to both the child and the parent. A hateful glance or rude comment about the behavior or parenting skill will never be helpful. The situation is bad enough without adding to the situation.

Kids will be kids and parents (and onlookers) must learn to deal with them. Although children can be challenging and stressful to their parents, there are things that non-parents can do to help out. Not only will it help with the current situation, it will give both the children and parents a positive starting point to move past the negative behavior and, perhaps, not repeat it.


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