Relax, unwind, and resolve to be better parents.
31 December 2002

"Now that Christmas is over and the holiday season is with us, it is an excellent opportunity to chill out and enjoy time with the children," said Parents Centre Chief Executive, Sue Fitzmaurice.

"Preparations leading up to Christmas can put an unnecessary strain on family relationships, and often add to the tension of the season. Now that Christmas is over, it is time to relax, unwind and make a few plans for the future," said Ms Fitzmaurice.

"Parents Centre is encouraging parents to make New Year's resolutions which reflect the will to be better parents. We have come up with a few ideas to get the ball rolling, but suggest that families take the time to come up with their own resolutions for better family life in 2003," Sue Fitzmaurice said.

Our list of resolutions:-

· Not to smack

· To take a few deep breaths before responding in anger

· Take time to communicate before disagreements get out of hand

· Set down clear and consistent rules

· Give lots of positive feedback

· Tell your children you love them - often

· Don't let the little things get to you

· Help your children learn from their mistakes

· Spend quality time with your children

· Develop a new hobby or pursuit together.

"The list could go on forever. The important thing is that parents take the time to communicate with their children. Developing a family plan and guidelines which reflects individual family strengths and weaknesses is a good start to building better relationships within the family," said Sue Fitzmaurice

"If parents take the time to communicate clearly and openly with their children then we will no longer need section 59 (Crimes Act) provisions, which exempt parents from criminal liability for hitting their children,"

"Holidays are a great time to affirm the good things about family life, and enjoy each others company in a relaxed atmosphere. Let's make the effort to continue in the same spirit of good will," said Sue Fitzmaurice.

Contact: Sue Fitzmaurice 025 750 444 or Judith Stanley-Dyer 025 6577 370

Judith Stanley-Dyer
* Public Relations Manager
* Parents Centre New Zealand
* PO Box 30145
* Lower Hutt *
* www.parentscentre.org.nz
* Ph: 04 560-1990

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