Carol Surya, Author at zaparents

Bullies and bullying

by Carol Surya | addiction and depression, bullying, suicide | 4 comments

Bulling isn’t an inevitable part of growing up. Research shows that whether your child is being bullied, being the bully, or watching their friend being bullied, they need help. It affects everyone (even you as parents) and often has a major impact on children’s developing sense of self, school performance and self-esteem (even into adulthood).

Helping kids face new beginnings

by Carol Surya | behaviour, communication, emotions, independence, siblings | 0 comments

It helps to remember that because children are still developing, they are more vulnerable to any big change (i.e. like starting ‘big’ school, moving homes, cities, the birth of a sibling). Big changes (especially if not prepared for) may easily show up in negative behaviours and/or affect their emotional security (foundation).

Ways to give the gift of generosity to kids

by Carol Surya | giving, poverty, social issues | 0 comments

When children are given plenty of opportunities and encouragement to be generous, they naturally become more helpful and caring, developing loyalty and compassion for others. A good starting place to help children understand what it means to be generous is to teach them the importance of sharing, and talk about how you feel when you give.

Encouraging independence in children builds their self-esteem

by Carol Surya | self-esteem, Self-esteem | 2 comments

All children have a wealth of inner wisdom, creativity and problem-solving potential, if only we give them a chance to use them. Once you step back and allow more chances for independence, you’ll be amazed at just how capable they are.

How (and why) to build your own self-esteem as a parent

by Carol Surya | motherhood, parenting, parenting books, parents | 0 comments

Without intending it, there are many things that we do and say about ourselves that are influencing our kids. At the same time, there are many daily “building-up moments” which you can use to help improve how you feel and talk about yourself, which can make a great difference to them.

10 tips for preparing our kids for big changes

by Carol Surya | behaviour, child, communication | 2 comments

By preparing our kids for life changing events, we are helping them to cope far better with the change, and teaching them that there are healthy ways to adjust to whatever life throws at them.

Helping kids cope with traumatic events: Garden Route fires

by Carol Surya | anxiety, behaviour, communication, emotions | 3 comments

The Garden Route fires took everyone by surprise. Children often experience trauma differently, as they are more sensitive and less able to express their feelings and needs.

Understanding your child’s behaviour & responding positively

by Carol Surya | behaviour, bullying, communication, emotions, parenting | 1 comment

When kids can’t find positive, useful ways to have their needs met or feelings expressed, they’ll inevitably turn to more unhealthy ways.

9 tips for playing with your kids

by Carol Surya | being present, play | 0 comments

Playing with your kids must be fun for you too. They know exactly when you’re enjoying yourself or not. It doesn’t have to be a board game – find things that you both enjoy – throwing balls, a “tea-party” or a hide-and-seek adventure in your backyard, walking around the neighbourhood…

12 tips for positive parenting

by Carol Surya | being present, play | 0 comments

Is positive parenting simply about being ‘positive’ towards our kids? Is it about talking positively instead of negatively, or disciplining without loosing your cool? Actually positive parenting is being seen as an entire way of being that values growth, well-being, relationships and happiness, above all else.

What’s in a game?

by Carol Surya | family, indoor, play | 0 comments

One of the easiest and fastest ways for grown-ups to feel like kids again is to play games with them. It turns out playing games are actually really good for us. Here’s why: