Raising Boys: Balancing Energy, Chaos, and Calm
Today we are talking about raising boys! Every few weeks, I answer a parenting question on my blog. If this question can help you or a loved one, I encourage you to read this blog post and share it. Also, if you want to ask your own parenting question, please submit it here.
Today’s Question
I have four boys, aged 13, 11, 6, and 4. The noise and energy levels in our home are consistently high, especially in the winter, and it can be quite overwhelming for me. Despite my desire to be the fun mom, I often find myself trying to escape the chaos rather than enjoying the time with my boys. The constant overstimulation makes it challenging to focus on household tasks, with impromptu wrestling matches at my feet becoming a common occurrence.
Handling one or two boys at a time is more manageable, but when all four are together, it almost always turns into chaos. Even planned activities like board games, crafts, or reading books tend to spiral into disorder with the entire group. As a former elementary teacher turned stay-at-home mom, I expected this to be easier for me, but the overwhelming feeling persists.
I love my boys dearly; they are my greatest blessings. However, I struggle to navigate the overstimulation and engage with them amidst the chaos. Additionally, the younger ones often end up getting hurt in the battles initiated by the older ones, adding to my anxiety. I’m unsure how to overcome these challenges and create a more enjoyable and manageable environment for all of us.
Check out the video for today’s answer
Today’s Answer:
As a parent coach, I often use questions to help parents find the answer that is already within themselves. Start by asking yourself and seeking the Holy Spirit with these questions this week and journal your answers:
- What have you tried so far?
- How do you typically handle feeling overwhelmed in your home?
- How do you establish boundaries with your boys when it gets too rough?
- How do you envision an ideal balance between engaging with your boys and finding moments of calm for yourself?
It sounds like you’re dealing with a challenging and energetic household, and it’s completely understandable that it can be overwhelming at times. While rough play is a normal aspect of childhood, it’s important to establish clear boundaries to ensure everyone’s safety and well-being. Encouraging children to understand and respect limits, both physically and emotionally, contributes to a positive and healthy play environment. Additionally, recognizing the importance of balancing rough play with quieter activities and moments of calmness helps create a well-rounded and enjoyable family dynamic.
Here are a few suggestions that might help you manage the chaos and engage with your boys more effectively:
Raising Boys: Tips to managing the chaos and energy
- Designate Specific Times for High-Energy Activities: Consider setting specific times during the day for high-energy activities when the boys can engage in more physical play. This might help balance the energy levels and give you some periods of calmness.
- Consider Involving the Boys in Organized Sports or Activities: Exploring organized sports or activities can be a great way to channel your boys’ energy in a structured and positive manner. Enrolling them in sports teams, martial arts, or other group activities not only provides an outlet for their physical energy but also fosters teamwork, discipline, and social skills. This can contribute to a more balanced and organized routine for the family, giving you moments of respite while the boys engage in activities they enjoy. Additionally, these organized activities often have set schedules, which can help create a sense of routine and predictability in your household.
- Individual Attention: While it’s challenging with four boys, try to spend some one-on-one time with each child. (Check out the tips here for spending quality, special time with each child in bigger families.) This can help strengthen your bond with them individually and provide a break from the group dynamics.
- Clear Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries for rough play and make sure the older ones understand the importance of playing safely with the younger ones. Reinforce positive behavior and intervene when needed to ensure everyone is safe.
- Hold a Family Meeting: Discuss the importance of safe and respectful play. Involve each child in the conversation, allowing them to share their perspectives on what constitutes acceptable and unacceptable rough play. Together, establish clear boundaries and guidelines that everyone agrees upon. This not only empowers your boys to take responsibility for their actions but also creates a shared understanding of the expectations surrounding playtime. Encourage open communication and ensure that everyone’s opinions are heard, fostering a collaborative approach to managing rough play in the household.
- Quiet Time: Consider incorporating some quiet time activities, like reading or drawing, especially during the winter months. This can help balance the high energy levels and provide a calmer atmosphere for you.
- Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek support from your partner, friends, or family members. Having someone to share responsibilities with can provide you with much-needed breaks.
- Self-Care: Take care of yourself. Make sure you’re getting enough rest, and don’t hesitate to take breaks when needed. Engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation can help you recharge.
Remember, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed, and you’re not alone in facing these challenges. Finding a balance that works for both you and your boys may take some time, so be patient with yourself and celebrate the small victories. Continue this list and brainstorm all your ideas. Talk to mom friends and get their input on ideas. If the feelings persist, consider reaching out for parent coaching or seeking a parenting support group or counselor for additional guidance.