Transitioning from a busy working day back into home life can sometimes be hard.
You may be tired or still have work issues on your mind but then be met with children who also want and need your energy and attention.
Having a ritual that helps you transition from work life to home life and reconnect with your family can make a big difference.
Something that includes some movement can clear your head and make you feel more relaxed.
It could be a quick game of tag or kicking a ball around in the garden, a walk around the block to notice what’s new in the neighbourhood or putting on a song that everybody can dance to together.
It might only take five minutes but can help you move from one phase into the next.
Sharing the events of our day with family members can be a great way to unpack things and process what we’ve experienced.
It can also be a chance for parents to get a window into what’s going on in their kids’ world - something that can become increasingly difficult as they move into their teen years.
One way to do this is for each person to share:
One thing they enjoyed from their day or that they felt proud of themselves for.
One thing that challenged them.
One thing that they are excited for or looking forward to in the future.
This provides an opportunity for reflection and to make sense of what we’ve learned.
It also normalises that every day is full of different emotions but leaves us focussed on something positive.
Finishing the day by talking about three things you’re thankful for can be a good one to do at tuck up time.
Again, this is a ritual that brings benefits for both adults and kids.
Regularly practising gratitude is linked with greater happiness and reduced depressive symptoms.