A Parent’s Guide to Calming Household Stress

Considering how much noise, mess, and time pressures kids create, you’d think they thrive on disorder. However, too much chaos can affect their physical and emotional development.

Numerous studies have found that children growing up in chaotic households tend to have lower grades, less self-control, and poorer health. Contributing factors include excess noise, lack of family routines, overcrowding, and general disorganization. If you think your home could use more harmony, take a look at these ideas.

Suggestions For Dealing With Stressful Noise

Research suggests that the two biggest negative influences on toddlers were having the TV on much of the day, along with the absence of family routines. Try lowering the volume in your house.

1. Designate quiet hours. Set aside time for reading and other quiet activities free from electronics, music, and loud conversations. Go a step further and leave the TV off round the clock unless you plan to watch a specific program. You’ll likely be surprised by the stress reduction that this simple act can achieve.

2. Lower your voice. Try to catch yourself raising your voice or interrupting each other. Make an effort to speak softly.

3. Listen carefully. It’s easier to pay attention to each other when it’s quiet. Encourage your child to share their feelings and concerns.