beyond small talk Archives

3 Tips to Improve Your Mental and Emotional Health During the Pandemic

Posted on November 10, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Have you been feeling really overwhelmed lately?

When we neglect our mental and emotional health, especially during these trying times, it can start to worsen – sometimes to the point that it becomes anxiety and depression.

Good news! There are ways to get our mental and emotional health back on track!

Here are three ways we can improve your mental and emotional health, from Licensed Clinical Counselor, Mental Health Advocate, and Beyond Small Talk guest, Dr. Tito Almadin:

1. Accept the reality

It is time to stop resisting reality.

The pandemic is real. The troubles we’re experiencing right now are actually happening. The changes might be hard to accept, but you can only move forward when you learn to accept that they are happening.

Acceptance isn’t a passive state of contentment. Psych Central says it’s good to practice radical acceptance. Radical acceptance means accepting life on life’s terms. Doing so helps you conserve emotional energy and gain clarity on what you need and how to get it.

Embrace the past and find ways on how you can move forward today!

2. Behave appropriately

“When is this pandemic going to end?”

If you’ve asked this question to yourself, you are not alone. Everyone deals with the uncertainty brought by the crisis, and many have spiraled into overwhelming panic.

Do your best to focus on what you can control, plan for what you can, and ease your “pandemic panic” by refusing to succumb to negative thinking.

As Dr. Tito puts it, “Let’s not panic. Let’s not be too paranoid and scared or think negative thoughts so that we don’t get discouraged.”

3. Commit to be better each day

You can make the changes you need to improve your mental health. But to be able to do that, you need to commit.

You need to commit to take steps to improve your condition. Seek help from loved ones and mental health professionals. Make a commitment to yourself that you will take care of yourself more.

You’re not stuck! Find support. Seek help. Seek God’s help.

“Adjust every day. Give yourself a chance to get better. Find people who can help you and talk to them about your feelings and struggles. Don’t keep your problems to yourself,” Dr. Tito encouraged.

Are you struggling with your mental and emotional health?

Begin your steps to peace today and allow us to encourage you through prayers. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send your prayer requests to our Facebook page.

Stay tune for more tips about mental health! Watch the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this Saturday, November 13, 2021, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

See you there!

6 Tips for Parents with a Child Struggling with their Mental Health

Posted on November 8, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

No parent ever wants their child diagnosed with a mental illness.

But the truth is, mental health disorders know no age. It could happen to anyone, even to young children, teens, and older adults. Knowing what to do to help their child struggling with their mental health is a big challenge for most parents.

If you’re wondering how you can support your child, Beyond Small Talk guest Paolo Punzalan shares 6 parenting tips to help your child on their mental health journey:

Tip #1: Make your home a safe space for your children

Everyone needs a safe place to flourish. To fully support your child, make sure that your home is a safe place to come home to – both physically and emotionally.

Assure your child that you are willing to understand and listen to their concerns. Start a conversation, and allow them to open up when they want to or when they’re comfortable.

“I tell my children that no matter what happens, they can always come home. Our home should be a place where they can be themselves. That doesn’t mean we won’t discipline or put boundaries. But it should be a safe space. So we listen, we validate. Sometimes we just hug them and not force them to talk,” Paolo shared.

Tip #2: Don’t take things personally

Does your child keep ignoring you? Do they seem rather irritated and a little less than friendly?

Don’t take it personally. Symptoms of mental illnesses differ from one another, but they all affect how your child respond to their environment. Use empathy, not argument.

Paolo recalled, “That became my problem, too. I took it personally. I’d tell them, ‘Why don’t you talk to me? I want to help you but you’re ignoring me!’ It was painful, but we just really need to be there. Those were some of the lessons I learned as my children went through different things during this pandemic.”

Tip #3: Turn to God

No matter how you try to carry everything on your own, you can’t do it all alone. There is no need to be overwhelmed. You can always pray and seek God’s strength, hope, and comfort for you and your child.

“If we love our children, God loves them more. We can surrender all our worries to God,” Paolo reminds.

Tip #4: Be very patient

Looking after anyone who is struggling with their mental health can be physically and emotionally draining. If you find your patience being tested, take the time to think about what your child is going through and remember to take care of your own mental health, too.

Paolo has a suggestion for you, “I know sometimes we want to question them why they wouldn’t talk to us or even want to eat. But that’s not the time to correct them, it’s a time to be patient.”

Tip #5: Ask for help

It’s good to ask for help. Sometimes, people want to help you and your child, but they do not know how. Give people the opportunity to bless you however they can.

Likewise, Paolo encourages you to seek help from doctors and mental health professionals, “Mental health problems are treatable. I know there’s a stigma, but God can bring healing. If there’s a need to go to a professional, it’s perfectly okay to go to a counselor or a psychiatrist.”

Tip #6: Be present

Every parent should be intentional about “Present parenting.” It’s challenging, but don’t just find time—make time for your child. And whenever you’re together, it’s best to give them your undivided attention.

“More than anything, be present. Love them unconditionally. Tell them, ‘No matter what happens, anak, I’m here. I will love you.’”

As you connect with your child, gently connect them to Jesus, too. Everyone—including you and your child—will go through challenges in life, and you can’t be around them 24/7, forever. But when they get to know God, He can guide them.

Be present, pray, and teach your child that they can turn to God every time.

Is your child struggling with their mental health?

Allow us to comfort you through prayers. Feel free to call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8737-0700 or send in your prayer requests to our Facebook page.

For more meaningful content, catch the brand new webisodes of Beyond Small Talk every Saturday, 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube channel.

How to Support a Loved One with Mental Health Problems – Beyond Small Talk

Posted on October 21, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Mental illness could happen to anyone and it could be difficult to recognize.

Unlike a physical wound that is easy to spot, mental illness is an internal war hidden behind a smile, a hello, and the telltale phrase, “I’m okay.”

According to Mayo Clinic, some of the warning signs you should watch out for are “excessive fears or worries, or extreme feelings of guilt, significant tiredness, low energy, and inability to cope with daily problems or stress.”

If you recognize these symptoms in a friend, colleague, or family member, check out these tips from Beyond Small Talk hosts Peter Kairuz, Sonjia Kakilala and psychotherapist Alain Dizon to know how you can better support them in this journey.

1. Make the person feel that nothing has changed

You might feel awkward when approaching them, but try to relax. Make them feel that you’re the same person they have known and you still see them the same way. Create a safe place for them to unload and share their struggles without judging nor condemning them.

2. Ask them how you could help

It’s okay to be honest and to admit that you don’t know what to do. Ask them how you could help. Always take the cue from the person.

Tell them your limitations and boundaries when helping, but assure them that you’ll journey with them to recovery.

3. Learn how to listen

Avoid acting like an expert by trying to fix your loved ones’ problems. What they need are your heartfelt presence and listening ear to make them feel that you genuinely care.

Also, don’t force them to speak if they are not yet ready to open up. Just make yourself available whenever they are comfortable to finally talk.

4. Educate yourself

One of the biggest challenges that people with mental illness have to deal with is stigma. Educating yourself will help you to better relate to them and provide the best assistance.

Did these tips help you? Feel free to comment on the online discussion and make sure to catch the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk! Watch it next Saturday, October 23, 2021, 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel!

Also, we would love to pray for you and your loved ones who are suffering from mental health problems.

Call 8-737-0-7-00 if you’re in Metro Manila. If you’re outside Metro Manila or the Philippines, contact us through CBN Asia Prayer Center.

5 Ways to Cope with Pandemic Stress | Beyond Small Talk

Posted on September 22, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Imposed quarantines from time to time, news about the rise and fall of COVID-19 cases here and there, plus health and safety reminders everywhere. Can you believe that the world has been battling this pandemic for a year and a half now?

How are you holding up?

If these unsettling scenarios stress and fill you with anxiety, know that God wants you to be free from all worries (Psalm 34:4).

God gives you the power to break free from stress!

Here are 5 essential tips to help you cope with your pandemic stress, from inspirational speaker and Beyond Small Talk guest, Carl Pascua.

Tip #1: Slow down and rest

Did you find yourself feeling extra stressed when the pandemic started? You are not alone. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says it is natural to feel stress, anxiety, grief, and worry during the pandemic.

Perhaps, uncertainty becomes the gasoline that fuels your stress fire.

Don’t worry. You don’t need to force yourself to be okay all the time. Carl suggests that you process your emotions. Take time to figure out where the sadness or stress comes from and take a much-needed rest.

Tip #2: Exercise and stay healthy

Science has long proven that your mind and body are strongly linked.

“Remember, a healthy body can result into a healthy mind and a good emotional condition,” Carl reminds.

The American Psychological Association support’s Carl’s assertion and states that as your mental health declines, your physical health can worsen, and if your physical health declines, you can feel mentally “down.”

So, get off the couch and start a simple exercise routine. Also, be extra mindful of what you eat!

Tip #3: Talk about your problems

Whether it’s with a family member, a trusted friend, or a mentor, sharing your thoughts and concerns with other people can help relieve stress.

Likewise, you can help others feel that they’re not alone, too!

Like you, each person you know could be fighting a battle you don’t know about. So don’t hesitate to reach out. Encourage each other and build each other up! (1 Thessalonians 5:11 NLT)

Tip #4: Let go of the idea about control

Who would’ve thought that by 2020, going to malls, restaurants – or even work – could be a health risk? Who would’ve thought that by the summer of 2021, you would still be cooped up in your home and praying for a pandemic to end?

No one.

But it happened. This goes to show that no matter what your plans are, you cannot control everything. Ease your pandemic stress by letting go of your need to control things, and trusting in Someone greater who is always in control – Jesus Christ.

As Proverbs 19:21 ESV puts it, “Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.”

Tip #5: Put your faith in Him

If anything, the pandemic proved the famous saying, “Everything changes, except the word change.”

If you put your happiness and trust in things that change – like your career, health, or even relationships – you might feel stressed when things don’t work out the way you had hoped they would. It’s high time to put your joy and faith in a God who never changes.

“Other people may not understand everything that is going on in your life, but God knows. That means you can go to Him, cry to Him, and you can seek help from Him. Problems can be big, but our God is bigger, our God is stronger!” Carl concluded.

No matter what you’re going through, keep going! You can always find comfort and overcome through the help of your merciful God!

“In the multitudes of anxieties within me, your comforts delight my soul.” (Psalm 94:19 NKJV)

Do you feel overwhelmed or stressed?

We are here for you. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 and we will pray for you.

Mark your calendars and catch the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this Saturday, September 25, 2021, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube channel!

Teacher, Check Out these 5 Self-Care Tips for You! | Beyond Small Talk

Posted on September 20, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Modules. Online classes. Reports.

Sounds familiar, don’t they?

In fact, they are so familiar and important that you tend to give your all to provide quality learning experience for your students. They are so valuable that sometimes, these things that you love to do become the source of your stress and burnout.

Influencer, mental health advocate, and Beyond Small Talk host Jericho Arceo shares helpful self-care tips so teachers and educators like you can still thrive while staying committed to your noble profession:

1. Engage in self-care

What can you do to take care of yourself? Start with yourself.

In this time of crisis, teachers like you are exerting extra effort on their work to the point of skipping meals or not getting enough sleep. The work may feel endless at times, but taking time to take care of yourself isn’t selfish! In fact, it’s an important of part of doing well in your job too.

Take care of your sleep, make sure you eat healthy foods, and do not underestimate the value of exercise. Be a little kinder to your body. The healthier you are in mind, body and spirit, the more productive you will be!

Jericho shares, “When we take care of our bodies, eventually, our mental health is being taken care of. It is important to take care of our bodies intentionally, so we can take care of others – in line with the second commandment which is to love our neighbors.”

2. Identify sources of stress

Pause and take time to identify where your stress could be coming from, both in your work and personal life. If you can pin-point your triggers, you can find ways to successfully manage and respond to them.

So, what is your stressor? Your deadlines? The workload? Your colleagues? Or the pressure to adjust to new modes of learning?

3. Be part of a support group

Figuratively speaking, no man is an island.

Scientifically speaking, having trusted people around you is important. In fact, a research titled The Correlation of Social Support with Mental Health from the National Library of Medicine shows that having a good support system can have a positive impact on one’s mental health.

“Make sure your support group understands you, listens to you, loves you, and prays for you. They will lead you closer to God and insulate you in times of mental health problems. Choose your friends,” Jericho suggests.

4. Seek professional help

Are you struggling to sleep, feeling restless or down, becoming sick, or lacking interest in things you used to be so passionate about?

A certain amount of work-related stress is inevitable, but a burnout is a more serious type of stress. You may want to consider talking to a doctor or a mental health professional so they can help you work through it.

“If you are experiencing burnout or any mental health problem, it is important to seek professional help. There is nothing wrong with that,” Jericho reminds.

5. Rest

Some people feel an overwhelming sense of guilt whenever they rest. Perhaps that feeling stems out of the belief that one’s productivity equates to one’s worth.

But rest is productive, too.

According to Psychology Today’s article “Rest for Success”, your “downtime” can boost your biological intelligence. Apart from that great benefit, rest also helps increase your productivity, creativity, and attention to detail.

So, take your time off – and the next time you do, gently remind yourself that rest is required, and you deserve it.

According to Jericho, one of the best things you can do as you rest is to pray and have a personal time with God, “Pray to God, because God is the one who understands you when you cannot verbalize what you feel.”

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own.” (1 Corinthians 6:19)

Are you feeling restless?

It would be our joy to comfort you through prayers and introduce you to the ultimate source of rest and peace. Feel free to call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 and we would love to pray for you.

Catch the next Beyond Small Talk webisode this Saturday, 7:00 PM on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

4 Keys to Unlock God’s Blessings Even During a Pandemic | Beyond Small Talk

Posted on September 15, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

“Where is God’s blessing in this crisis?”

As the whole world continues to grapple with the pandemic, you may have heard someone ask this question. Perhaps, you even asked yourself the same.

Although struggles are part of life, you can still thrive! God is more than willing to bless you, prosper you, and give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV).

Check out these 4 keys to unlocking God’s blessings amid crisis, shared by Farmer, Businessman, and Beyond Small Talk guest Dodong Cacanando.

1. Pray for your adversaries

While you are on the lookout for your next financial breakthrough, take a moment to pause and pray for that unideal situation you are in and for those who stand between you and your goals.

Dodong emphasized the power of praying for your enemies by retelling the story found in Jeremiah 29, “When God told the Jews that He has a plan for them, they were in Babylon. They were in exile. When they were in Babylon, God said, ‘For I know the plans I have for you, it is to give you a good future’. And I like what verse 7 says ‘pray to the Lord for that city.’”

2. Remember that where God has placed you is a blessing

You might be looking around and pondering if you need to leave the place where you are right now.

Your current situation could be the very place where God intends to bless you!

Are you struggling at work? Perhaps God is teaching you something or shaping your character through the challenges you are facing right now. Do you have problems with your business? Maybe God is leading you to your next breakthrough.

Don’t give up! Ask God to lead you and keep on pressing on.

3. Start where God placed you

Are you planning to start a business during this pandemic? Then ask yourself, “What resources do I have today? What are my skills and what other skills do I need to develop?”

Think: “What unforeseen good could come out from this crisis?”

Wherever you are right now, know that God placed you there. He placed you there for a reason! Your current location and situation might not seem ideal to you at first, but it’s time to trust Him that things will work together for good.

4. Take good care of what you have

“Take care of what you have right now because it is part of God’s plan for you,” Dodong suggests.

What do you have right now? Work on it and improve it. Take care of your relationships, resources, and skills. Most importantly, take good care of yourself.

Nobody knows when the tough times will be over, but one thing is certain: God is working even in the toughest times. Trust God that even amid crisis, your needs will be met and He will pour out blessings for you.

Are you praying for favor and blessings?

We would like to stand with you in prayer. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center now at 8-737-0-700 or send in your prayer requests to our Facebook page.

Don’t miss the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this Saturday, 7:00 PM on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

Budgeting Tips for Couples during the New Normal | Beyond Small Talk

Posted on August 27, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Calling all husbands and wives!

Are you looking for practical ways to successfully manage your family’s finances amid the pandemic?

If you want to pave the road for better money management in the new normal, check out these helpful budgeting tips from motivational speakers and Beyond Small Talk guests Vic and Avelynn Garcia:

1. Practice conjugal spending

Even after tying the knot, a lot of couples still have separate properties, separate spending priorities, and yes – separate bills to pay.

But did you know that this practice does more harm than good in your marriage?

Splitting bills and expenses divide your marriage’s spending power. It might also lead to other financial risks, such as borrowing money from each other when the other one goes broke. Worse, what if you both go broke?

To foster financial security and trust, Vic and Avelynn suggest that couples must learn how to practice combining all their resources and spending them in a way that is agreed on by both sides.

“Because they have separate money, they tend to buy whatever they want without having to tell their spouse. When you are already married, the husband’s income also belongs to his wife, and the wife’s income also belongs to her husband. That’s why we are encouraging you to combine your money and practice conjugal spending,” says Vic.

2. Practice triangle spending

Before you spend your hard-earned money, don’t just ask your spouse how you can spend wisely – ask God, too.

Your attitude toward money says a lot about how you value your marriage. Most importantly, it also reflects how you value God and the resources that He entrusts to your household.

It’s never too late to include God in the equation.

Pray that He guides you and your spouse in handling your family’s budget. For Him to give you the strength to follow His plan for your finances. Live in the faith that your family can withstand any crisis – all with the help of your generous Heavenly Father.

“A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.” (Ecclesiastes 4:12 NLT)

Are you experiencing financial struggles in your marriage right now?

Allow us to pray for you. Feel free to call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8737-0700 or send in your prayer requests to our Facebook page.

We have more financial tips for you!

Don’t forget to watch the next webisodes of Beyond Small Talk every Saturday, at 7:00 PM on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

5 Things Parents Can Do to Support their Child’s Gifts and Talents

Posted on June 25, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

What is your child good at?

How do you help them nurture their gifts and talents?

Parents, more than just having your own hopes and dreams for your child, it is important to encourage them to follow their own dreams and help nurture their talents.

If you are wondering how you could support your child’s pursuit of their dreams, Papuri! artist and Beyond Small Talk guest Rommel Guevara shares 5 things that can help you bring out your child’s best:

1. Be motivated by love

Are you pushing your child to excel in areas that they are not genuinely interested in?

It is understandable why many parents would want to have a say in their child’s life. They want their children to succeed. However, this practice can do more harm than good.

Dr. Harold S. Koplewicz of Child Mind Institute says that pushing kids to do things they don’t like can lead to anxiety disorder or learning disability.

Perhaps, it is time to examine your own motivations for pushing your child in a certain direction. When you want to support your child’s best interest, it is always best to be motivated by love.

2. Let them know that you support their dreams

Does your child know that you’ve got their back?

Discover your child’s gift and interests, and intentionally show your support!

“When our daughter was born, we prayed to support her dreams. We do not want to pressure her into doing ministry work, just because her parents are in the ministry. We let her discover her passions as she grows up,” Rommel said.

3. Don’t withhold discipline

It is good to give your child the freedom to choose their own path. Likewise, parents are called to guide their children (Proverbs 22:6). Fantastic parents are those who learn how to strike a balance between freedom and discipline.

Rommel shared, “We should support our children, but that doesn’t mean tolerating them when they are doing the wrong things. Love and support come with discipline.”

Remember, you can show your love and support by setting boundaries.

4. Support their talents and interests

What makes your child unique?

Sometimes, you need to step out of your comfort zone to help your child explore their gifts and talents.

Encouraging them through words is great! But there are also times when you need to show your support by providing them the tools, materials, and supplies that will further nurture their talents.

Simply put, your wallet will be involved – which leads us to point number 5.

5. Provide financial support

To Rommel, moral support is wonderful, but it is better if parents can also support their children’s interests financially.

So, if the budget allows, do not hesitate to bless your child with the equipment and materials they need. After all, you are investing in the life of your loved one!

But what if the budget is limited?

Parents, it is best to rely on your limitless God.

“Thankfully, God only entrusted our children to us. Our children’s real Father is in heaven,” Rommel said. “So, when it comes to the financial needs of our daughter, we ask God for provision. He will supply the needs of our children.”

“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19 ESV)

Do you find these tips helpful in supporting your child’s gifts and talents?

Let us know in the comments section below!

For more inspiring content, don’t miss the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this Saturday, June 26, 2021, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel! 

5 Meaningful Ways to Strengthen Your Relationship with Your Mom

Posted on June 4, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

When you look at your mother, what do you see?

Do you see the world’s best chef, a genuine friend, or a great provider? Is she your cheerleader, teacher, and responsible housekeeper?

While all mothers wear many hats, one of the most important roles they play is to give their children nurturing love.

Thankfully, there are some things you can do to thank them for all the love and sacrifice they have done and eventually, keep your bond strong!

Coach and Beyond Small Talk host LA Mumar, son of actress Coney Reyes, shares 5 meaningful ways to help you strengthen and improve your relationship with your mother:

1. Keep your relationship God-centered

Oh, how good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! (Psalm 133:1)

A God-centered relationship with your mother means Jesus operates between the two of you. You speak and act with God’s love, joy, and kindness. It is a relationship where respect and grace abound.

“At the end of the day, we can have great relationships with one another despite our shortcomings, because we receive God’s love. We can share that love with our moms and with the people around us. I think that’s the most important part,” LA shared.

2. Do your best to understand one another

No one is perfect; people make mistakes – including your mother.

When all is said and done, you have the choice to forgive. Try to understand why they do what they do. Ask God to give you the power to see right through any differences and see your mother through the lens of love.

LA agrees, “Let’s have a deeper understanding of one another, let’s understand both ways. I am a son, and I am also a parent. Let’s love our parents and understand what they are going through.”

3. Communicate with each other

Good communication with your mother entails more than just talking. It is knowing when to talk when to listen, as well as what to say and how to say it.

Family Education suggests some points to keep in mind the next time you chat with your mom: respect her privacy and boundaries, listen objectively, and do not interrupt or use words that are accusatory.

4. Make a continuous effort to strengthen your relationship

As LA succinctly puts it, “Of course, this is a two-way street.”

Sometimes, it is not a lack of love that ruins relationships but a lack of effort. Thankfully, there are many ways to strengthen parent-child relationships, which means there are many ways to show constant love and appreciation to your mother!

5. Pray for God’s grace and strength to sustain you

The flesh and heart may fail, but God’s sustaining grace will hold you together.

This piece of truth comes in handy when you want to strengthen your relationship with your mother. Seek God and ask Him to give you a mouth that speaks life, hands that are gracious to comfort, and a heart that loves unconditionally.

“With the grace and strength God has given us, I am sure, relationships can flourish,” LA said.

Watch out for more inspiring content from Beyond Small Talk this June!

Catch the next webisode this coming Saturday, June 5, 2021, at 7:00 PM on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube channel!

These 5 Tips can Help You Build Positive Relationships with Your Children!

Posted on May 26, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Are you wondering what are steps you can take to build strong, positive relationships with your children?

Sit down, relax, and let Beyond Small Talk guide you!

Actress, mother, and Beyond Small Talk guest Princess Punzalan talks about parenthood and shares 5 practical tips to help you improve your ties with your little ones:

1. Praise your children

According to the parenting website Raising Children, praise is when you tell your child that you like what they are doing or how they are behaving. Telling them praises such as “Good job!” or “What you did was amazing!” nurture their confidence and sense of self.

Likewise, it lets them know that you love them and believe in their abilities.

“I noticed that praising them is important. When they do something right, they are happy when we notice it. We are human beings; we want to be appreciated. We want to be loved. Our children respond well when we praise them,” Princess explained.

2. Do fun things together

Raising children is a challenging task – especially during this pandemic when you are all cooped up inside your home. But it is also fulfilling, and it can be fun!

Having fun doesn’t need to involve a serious activity or expensive trip. It can be as simple as riding a bike or playing a game together – as long as everyone enjoys it. Whatever floats your boat!

As Princess puts it, “It’s good to build memories where you are having fun with your kids.”

Parenting NI agrees, noting that spending special time with your children helps encourage communication and strengthen family bonds.

3. Talk about their feelings

When was the last time that you asked your children about how their day went? What about how they are holding up during this pandemic?

If you haven’t talked about their feelings yet, today is a good time to start!

“Let’s ask them how they feel. For some people, it will be harder to express their feelings, but I have seen that the more we talk about our feelings, the easier we can deal with them,” Princess suggested.

4. Join a support group

Support groups – whether online or offline – can bring comfort and friendship.

Whether they are your trusted friends and relatives, churchmates, or people in your community, it is helpful that you have the support of other parents who are going through the same situation.

These people can guide you, pray for you, and empower you to become a better parent.

5. Write down what you appreciate about your children and share it with them

What are the things that are praiseworthy about your children? Write them down.

Jot down those well-meaning words on your post-its, gratitude journal, or note app on your phone. Then, share it with your children.

The act may seem simple, but an encouraging remark from you every now and then could be all that your children need to feel that they are seen, heard, and loved.

May the love of the Lord rule in your home!

“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15 ESV)

For more tips about nurturing relationships, watch the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this coming Saturday, May 29, 2021, at 7:00 PM on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube channel!

What It Takes To Believe in God

His love for you is endless. That’s the kind that never fades. He reminds us all of his love for us in Jeremiah 31:3you with unfailing kindness.

The Fearless Life | God’s Word Today

His love for you is endless. That’s the kind that never fades. He reminds us all of his love for us in Jeremiah 31:3