01 Nov Parents can learn mindfulness to reduce family stress

Mindfulness is an evidence-based practice that can help people to become calmer, more focused and better manage stress in their lives. 

Now, parents can learn mindfulness techniques to help them form stronger connections with their children and create calmer, happier and more balanced homes.

Parenting and caregiving can be challenging in today’s fast-paced world, as parents try to juggle competing demands and hectic schedules – learning about mindful parenting can give them simple tools and strategies that can make a big difference to family life.

To help parents, Monash University is offering a self-paced, online Mindful Parenting short course that provides practical tips to support their own and their children’s wellbeing. Developed by clinical neuropsychologist Dr Luke Smith and Monash Centre for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies Education Coordinator, Sherelle Connaughton.

The course teaches parents to:

• Understand what mindfulness is and how it can be used in parenting and caregiving
• Identify personal parenting patterns and stress triggers they want to manage better
• Learn techniques of mindful communication to support stronger and more connected relationships with their children
• Cultivate compassionate parenting to deepen relationships
• Practically apply mindful techniques and meditations in everyday life.

Dr Smith said the course provides a range of practical resources, has no compulsory assessments and is designed for busy parents.

“Mindful techniques can help many of us become more self-aware, calm and compassionate in the way we respond to others by helping us to manage stress and teaching us to stay grounded and focused in the moment.

“Learning the practice of mindfulness is a fantastic way for parents to foster stronger and more compassionate relationships with their children.

“Parenting can feel overwhelming at times, but simple mindfulness techniques can really help manage stressful situations in a calmer and less reactive way.

“This course is designed for people who want to develop their parenting or care giving skills in a constructive way, and who value a calmer, loving and more balanced family life,” said Dr Smith.

The cost of the Mindful Parenting course is $150 and parents can find out more and sign up online at any time.