Do you ever notice that your kids act up when you're having a bad day?

If you are down in the dumps it's not unusual for kids to be affected by it. Families interact with each other in such a way that our disposition impacts everyone in the household. It's not unusual for our mood to change that of the people around us. If you are feeling irritable, gloomy or sulky your kids may be absorbing your tone and acting the same way. Parents often know when they're in a funk, but may not realize how catchy their attitude actually is.

The reality is that parents who sulk encourage kids to sulk. If you have a short fuse, your children will likely develop one too.

So what's a parent to do if they're in a snit? Take a deep breath and remember the following tips.

Communication Tips

• Make it clear that you're spirits are down..."I'm in a bad mood right now."

• Find a way to self-manage until the mood passes..."I need to take a hot bath so I can feel better."

• Ask for help..."If I snap at you, remind me that I'm in a bad mood and could use a nice hot bath."

• Go easy on yourself and allow time to recover. If this means getting into bed with your favorite book, then do it. You may even want to invite the kids in with you so they can read their favorite book too. That way you can supervise them with little effort on your part.

• Once the mood has passed, let your kids know and acknowledge their help...."I'm feeling better now and I'd like you to know how much you helped me by being quiet."

I'm not trying to say you cannot show your low energy, but I do encourage you to make it clear to your children that you can handle it. When you respond in a mature and productive way you teach your children how to self-manage.

Terry Carson