HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Happy Holidays - Protect Your Family

As I write this article I am remembering the Thanksgiving when I excused myself before dinner, put my two-year-old daughter in her snowsuit and went home.  My daughter was the only child at this gathering, and the environment was not tolerant of her age-appropriate behavior.  People kept saying “oh, get her,” ”oh, watch her,”  “make her sit down,” “she needs a spanking.” "young people just don't know how to raise children."  These people were well-intentioned but were just not ready for a small child. And, she was certainly not ready for them.  For everyone’s sake it was time for us to go. 

Family gatherings are great but they can be taxing.  As you enjoy the fun keep a watchful eye on your group.  Is your husband being criticized by your Mom, belittled by your sister, bullied into drinking too much by your cousin?  Are you the butt of jokes about your cooking, or your church-going?  Be sure you have a plan and a signal for when someone has had enough.  Have a little family talk ahead of time about what each person can expect and how you want to handle it.

Where are the children? What are they playing and with whom?  Is anyone in charge of the littlest ones?  Many people I have treated report their molestation took place during family functions, when everyone was present, but no one was watching.  Is a child being teased, or isolated?  Where are the alcoholic beverages? Keep checking even when your sister-in-law says you are too over-protective. She won’t be there to deal with the consequences if you neglect this duty.

Why am I bringing this up in the season of comfort and joy?  Because I want to wish you a wonderful holiday and fond memories that will last a lifetime.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year