Five More Tips for Raising Resilient Kids — With Julie Russell

We spent some time with Licensed Family Therapist, Julie Russell, about proven tips on how to raise resilient kids. This is the second part of three articles that discuss this issue.

Raising kids today is certainly challenging, but Russell said these are things parents can do immediately to have more peace in the home. Russell based her discussion on Margarita Tartakovsky’s proven methods to raise resilient children.

Tip #6: Don’t provide all the answers

When given a challenge, don’t solve your child’s problem. Ask them what they will do about it instead. This teaches them to think for themselves, and they can propose solutions.

Tip #7: Avoid talking in catastrophic terms

“Don’t tell your children ‘You’re going to make us go broke or you’re going to make me go to the crazy house,’” says Russell.

Doing this gives them anxiety because when parents speak that way they think scary things will happen to them, which can lead to other challenges.

Tip #8: Let your kids make mistakes

Often times, says Russell, we don’t allow our children to fail.

Some common mistakes are re-doing their homework for them. Don’t do that.

When your child tries to fix something, don’t jump in and help them fix it when they don’t ask for help. If they appear frustrated a good question to ask is: “What would you have me do?”

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Tip #9:Help them manage their emotions

Russell says emotional intelligence is a big factor in being successful in life, which is why socializing is so important. She recommends being an emotional thermostat. If your child throws a temper tantrum, don’t raise your voice. Don’t escalate the noise level.

Tip #10: Model resiliency

Children constantly watch the adult role models around them. When something is hard in your life, be the example and show them how to handle it. Require children to do work around the house, and when they’re older to get jobs. Make them work. Teach them to work. Make service a big part of their lives.

“Serving others is essential to happiness,” says Russell.

To read part one, go here: First Five Tips

Russell also serves as a Washougal City Councilor. She was elected to their first term on the City Council last November.

Julie Russell signs her oath of office at the conclusion of Monday’s Washougal City Council meeting.