Peaceful Parenting Practice
The gift of NO – by K. Kvols
If you are a person who is naturally open-hearted and generous, no can be an unnatural stretch. If you are one of those who really longs to be liked, it’s more than a stretch!
It may be tough to dish out a no because of the wake it can leave behind. We can see the hurt it inflicts…a wounded look, slumped disappointment, quivering protruding lower lip – is difficult to bear. Or the hurt aimed at us… “I don’t like you”, insults and sometimes kicks or slaps of little ones. Or there is the emotional blackmail of older kids. Threats, screaming, slamming doors and punching holes in walls. That’s a no we want to avoid-even when we shouldn’t.
Our personal integrity requires the power of no. Giving in to a beloved, to a bully, to an unnecessary purchase (for example) tears down our self-confidence. The ability to say no is an essential ingredient to our self-confidence. Yes carves little slices from you, while no is like a building block in your strength of character. Therein lies its power.
Here are five powerful questions to ask yourself BEFORE you answer a request of your time or resources:
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What do I want?
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Will I feel resentful if I say yes?
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Is this in the best interest of my child in the long run?
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Am I trying to avoid a conflict?
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Am I trying to please?
Instead of seeing your no as though you are a mean or controlling parent, see it for the gift it really is. You might be thinking, “How is saying no a gift?” Actually, there are two gifts. One gift is to your child. It is your way to protect your kids from what they cannot see or provide something that they can’t imagine. And the other is a gift to yourself.
Parenting Practice – Practice asking yourself the 5 questions before you answer someone’s request.
PARENT REMINDERS:
Summer Camp Countryside 2019 enrollment continues! Please submit your form and activity fee SOON if you plan on sending your child for all or any of the sessions. Camp is a really fun way to enjoy the summer! If you have any questions please check in with a teacher.
2019-20 School Year: Register Now!
Letters of Intent are due by April 1st along with the first week tuition payment. Open enrollment has begun and schedule requests are not guaranteed as limited spots remain. Please turn in your letter of intent, material fee, and note your schedule and then turn in first week tuition of 2019-20. If you have any questions, please be sure to check with your child’s directress or Debby in the office.
SPRING…It’s just around the corner… right?
If you are interested in gardening, outdoor clean up around the school, or sponsoring a flower barrel, please let us know. Garden planning has begun and we could use your help!
PARENT ADVISORY BOARD NEWS:
The meeting minutes from January can be reviewed: PAB Meeting Minutes We will meet Thursday, March 7th at 6:30pm at CMP. All are welcome, snacks and beverages will be served!
Fundraising and Planning:
Countryside Montessori Preschool will be hosting their first ever Touch-A-Truck Fundraiser is officially scheduled for Saturday, May 18th 2019 10am-2pm at the Northside Town Center Parking Lot!
We are looking for many volunteers and community connections; a sign up for volunteers will be on the way shortly. Does anyone have a connection with the City of Madison Streets or Utility to explore large vehicles? We would also like children’s performers, face paint/tattoos, local food trucks, story reading, etc. So anyone with these or other connections please let us know.
CMP Scholarship Fund
Our committee has formed and will begin to explore funding options through commercial and philanthropic donors, grant writing, and complementary programs. All are welcome to come discuss and learn more! Our first meeting is scheduled for March 7th 6:30pm.