Navigating parenthood is a full-time responsibility—one that can feel especially overwhelming in uncertain times like a global pandemic. With work-from-home routines, online schooling, and restricted social interactions, the already demanding role of parenting becomes even more complex. But here’s the good news: even in the middle of chaos, there’s opportunity to build deeper connections with your children.
In this guide, we explore expert-backed parenting strategies from behavioral health professional Su Chafin, NCC, LPCMH at Bayhealth Family Medicine, Dover. Her practical, heartfelt insights are designed to help you stay grounded, prioritize what truly matters, and cultivate a positive parenting rhythm—even when life gets unpredictable.
Why Parenting Feels More Challenging During a Pandemic
When schedules are overloaded, routines are disrupted, and emotions are running high, parenting often becomes more reactive than intentional. The pandemic magnified these issues—school closures, isolation, job insecurity, and health concerns created a perfect storm of stress for families.
But recognizing these stressors is the first step toward making meaningful changes at home. This is your opportunity to refocus and reshape your parenting approach with mindfulness and clarity.
Start with a Parenting Theme That Reflects Your Core Values
Create a Guiding Principle for Your Parenting Journey
According to Su Chafin, one of the most effective ways to stay grounded as a parent is to identify a guiding theme based on your values. Ask yourself: What do I want my children to remember about our family? What legacy do I want to leave behind?
Your theme could be centered around kindness, respect, empathy, or love. Couples can even combine their values into complementary themes, such as compassion and responsibility. Let this theme influence your daily interactions, discipline strategies, and family conversations.
Focus on Quality Time Over Quantity
Make Everyday Moments Count
While it’s tempting to think your kids need extravagant vacations or the latest toys, Chafin reminds us that memories are often made in the simplest of moments. Kids remember how you made them feel, not how much you spent on them.
Think back to your own childhood—those joyful memories were likely created in the backyard, in the kitchen, or during bedtime stories. Whether it’s making dinner while dancing to music or going on a spontaneous nature walk, focus on moments where both you and your child feel relaxed and engaged.
Incorporate Fun, Meaningful Activities into Your Routine
Bond Through Play, Nature, and Creativity
You don’t need elaborate plans to build meaningful connections. Chafin recommends simple, consistent activities that nourish emotional, physical, and mental well-being.
Ideas include:
- Nature walks and scavenger hunts
- Family game nights with classic board games or guessing games in the car
- Cooking together and letting kids choose recipes
- Creative time with drawing, music, or storytelling
- Playing sports or doing yoga together
These activities allow you to bond naturally without added pressure and teach life skills along the way.
Build Family Traditions That Foster Togetherness
Simple Rituals Have a Lasting Impact
Traditions can anchor families during turbulent times. These rituals don’t need to be grand gestures—they just need to be consistent.
One beautiful example Chafin shares is a bedtime ritual called Reflections. Each night, her family lights a candle, sits together, and reflects on a question. It could be silly—If you could be any animal, what would you be?—or profound—What would you change in the world today?
They close with a moment of gratitude, helping everyone wind down and feel connected. You can create your own variation of this tradition. Whether it’s a Sunday morning pancake ritual or a Friday night movie, rituals bring stability, especially in times of uncertainty.
Embrace Imperfection and Authenticity in Parenting
Let Go of the Pressure to Be the “Perfect” Parent
In a world full of curated social media feeds and parenting advice, it’s easy to feel like you’re not doing enough. But as Chafin wisely puts it, “You don’t have to be like anyone else.”
Your children benefit most from your presence, authenticity, and emotional availability—not your perfection. Embrace your quirks, acknowledge your mistakes, and let your kids see that being human means learning and growing together.
Practical Tips to Create a Parenting Groove During Challenging Times
- Start the day with intention: Set a positive tone in the morning, even with a short affirmation or hug.
- Prioritize connection over correction: Focus more on understanding your child’s emotions than controlling their behavior.
- Create flexible routines: A loose schedule provides structure without stress.
- Model emotional regulation: Show your children how to manage anxiety, disappointment, and stress in healthy ways.
- Practice gratitude together: End the day by naming three things you’re grateful for—this can shift focus from what’s missing to what’s meaningful.
FAQs
Q1: What are some simple ways to bond with kids during stressful times?
A: Everyday moments matter most—cook together, go for walks, play games, or establish small rituals like bedtime chats or gratitude reflections.
Q2: How do I manage parenting stress when everything feels chaotic?
A: Focus on what you can control. Start with a values-based theme, simplify your schedule, and prioritize quality over quantity in your time with kids.
Q3: Can family traditions really help during a crisis?
A: Yes! Small, consistent traditions offer structure and emotional comfort. Even a weekly dinner ritual or bedtime reflection helps kids feel secure.
Q4: How can I parent better without feeling overwhelmed by perfection?
A: Be authentic. Your kids don’t need perfect—they need present. Show them how to handle imperfection with grace, humor, and resilience.
Q5: What if I don’t have much time to spend with my children every day?
A: Even 15-20 minutes of engaged, undistracted time can make a big impact. It’s the quality of the interaction, not the amount of time, that matters.
