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Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down,
    but a good word makes him glad.
         Prov. 12:25
<<First Name>>, we're all dealing with a little extra anxiety right now as we deal with the coronavirus and not knowing when we'll get back in our normal routines. I'm sure you can feel that anxiety weighing down your heart, so you can imagine what it's doing to our kids as well. 

But this verse tells us that one part of helping our kids manage anxiety is a good word to make them glad. Our words have the power to turn around a bad day or help ease tension if we use them with grace and purpose. The first step is to validate whatever our kids are feeling in the moment so they learn to trust themselves. If their emotions aren't speaking truth (which happens to all of us), we can gently remind them of the truth when it's appropriate.

It may sound something like this, "I know you were mad at your brother earlier today because he wrecked your Legos. I would be mad too! But you know he didn't do that intentionally to hurt you. He didn't understand how much work you put into building that set. He may not be able to express how sorry he is, but I can tell you how sorry I am that happened. Can I help you put parts of it back together after he goes to bed tonight?" 

As parents, let's focus today on speaking good words that make our children glad so we can help alleviate some of the anxiety weighing them down. 
Father, Your Word is full of siblings who didn't always get along because the truth is, none of them do 100% of the time. But my children have additional challenges as they communicate and navigate life together, and I have to referee so often. This verse from Proverbs reminds me of the power of my words to bring peace or add stress. I first pray for ____, that his/her anxiety would decrease during this stressful time. I ask for the Holy Spirit to speak to me during tense times with my children so I know what to say to bring a good word and encourage them. Thank you for practical verses like this one in Your Word so I remember You are with me and want what's most edifying for all of us. In Jesus's name I pray, amen. 
With Your Child:
Included in my book, Unexpected Blessings, is a list of 7 phrases every special-needs sibling needs to hear. Add a few of these to your conversations this week to encourage your typical child: 

“You have my full attention.” Special-needs siblings can feel like their needs are always taking a back seat to their sibling’s needs. Try to reserve part of your day for just your typical children. Maybe it’s at bedtime. Or when you’re washing dishes together. Or when you can get away to a movie.

“Let’s make a plan together.” This is important to say when you find yourself saying, “Not right now” too often. The answer may be “Not right now,” but there will be a time you can do what your typical child is asking you to do. Make a plan together to do it when it’s best for all of you.

“I understand how you feel.” When I had negative feelings, like embarrassment or frustration, I needed to know my feelings were ok to have. My parents never shamed me for how I felt. They showed empathy and understanding. Now I can share stories from my childhood with David when he shares his negative emotions. I know how he feels because I’ve been where he is.

P.S. <<First Name>>, today is podcast day! And today's topic is gifts to give to your future self. Search for "Self Care and Soul Care for the Caregiver" in your favorite podcast app and take 10 minutes to listen today!
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