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By the third week of January, the routines are mostly back. The calendar is full again. And the version of ourselves we imagined at the start of the year doesn’t always show up when we’re tired, rushed, or overstimulated. We snap. We raise our voice. We sigh louder than we meant to.

When that happens, many of us feel like we’ve failed in that moment.

But parenting doesn’t fall apart in the rupture. It falls apart when we don’t repair.

Repair is what we do after a tough moment. It’s how we reconnect when things go wrong. It’s not about explaining ourselves, saying sorry too much, and acting as if nothing happened.

Repair simply means making the relationship feel safe again.

For kids, especially little ones, tense moments can feel confusing or even scary. They don’t have the words or perspective to know that “Dad is tired,” or “Dad is in pain,” or “Dad had a hard day.” They just notice the change in tone or energy.

Repair teaches their bodies that big feelings don’t have to break connection.

When we repair, we show our kids that relationships can bend but not break, that mistakes don’t end closeness, and that care can follow conflict.

Repair doesn’t need perfect words. It just needs us to be present.

Sometimes, it’s as simple as kneeling down and saying, “That didn’t come out the way I wanted. I’m here.”

It might be a hug, a quiet moment together, or a reset before bed.

January brings lots of these moments because everyone is still adjusting. Repair helps us move through them without holding onto the tension.

Repair matters more than being perfect.

Say what happened.
“I didn’t like how I spoke just now.”

Take responsibility.
“That wasn’t the tone I want to use with you.”

Reconnect with your child.
“I’m here. Let’s reset together.”

No lectures and excuses, just reconnecting. That’s what repair is all about!

Reply directly to this email with your question, or use this quick form to submit anonymously. Whether it’s about family routines, connecting with your kids, or managing stress, I’m here to help!

Let’s tackle parenting together, one question at a time!

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