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Be a Great Mum: Running a family

by Judy Reith

In China they have a saying that no family can hang out a sign saying ‘Nothing the matter here’. Running a family is a very complex job, like sailing a ship, parts of it are controllable, but unforeseen elements can throw you off course, and it’s often the mum who is the captain keeping everything shipshape! There is no jumping overboard either as a family needs management every day. Included are repetitive tasks like meals and housework as well as nurturing and tending to unhappiness, frustrations or disappointments. Stress levels can soar, so wherever possible, delegate, ditch or just do it! Make your home easy to live in and not a battle ground or a rubbish tip. May it be a place of sanctuary from the pressures of work, school and social life. Families are the backbone of any society, and it’s where we learn to cooperate, to care, to resolve our differences, and to have fun. Sometimes the best laughs you will ever have will be over a family joke. On special days, like birthdays or Christmas, invest your energy in what really matters, not the perfectly tidy house or the expensive present, but an opportunity to celebrate the milestones together and create happy memories.
Judy Reith www.parentingpeople.co.uk


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