Being a parent is hard work. The hours are long, there is no pay, and the job is difficult, physically and emotionally. Having a child is not always a fun job but there are many happy times when you have a child in your life.

Parenting can be one of the most rewarding things a person can do.

Since you will have the job for along time, it makes sense to develop some good work habits. Caring for, and challenging, children are important habits.

Caring for, and challenging, yourself are just as important. You will be better able to respond to the needs of others if you take care of yourself along the way.

Stress is a part of life. You may not always be able to control things that cause stress. But you can control how you react to stress. You can let stress cause problems in your life or you can change. You can handle stress in ways that help you to live with it. One way is to find the good in a bad situation.

For example, remembering that the baby will start to sleep all night; that you will not always have to buy diapers; that your child will learn to talk and be able to tell you what he needs instead of crying.

Plan ahead. There are many things parents can do to avoid problems that cause stress. Learn to plan a monthly budget. Plan your day by making a list of the things you need to do. Put a star by those things that are most important and do them before the others. If you cannot do everything, at least the most important jobs will be done. Remember to leave some free time to rest, play with your child, or call a friend. Find friends or neighbours who can babysit for you occasionally.

Set up a daily routine, leaving plenty of time to get things done in a relaxed manner. Many children do not like to be rushed. They want and need to participate in each activity to the best of their ability. When they are hurried, they may become disorganised, agitated or frustrated. It may seem as though it takes longer to get a child up and dressed in the morning without rushing, but things will be easier in the long run. Make your home a safe place for your child to play. Child-proof the room to cut down on obstacles and hazards. It doesn't matter if your home is not perfect. It really isn't that important if the house is a little dusty. But there will be problems if your needs and the needs of your family are not met. Decide what is really important to you and stick with it. What matters is how each and every member of your family feels.

Ask for help when you feel you need it. Sometimes a problem seems bigger than it really is. Solving a big problem alone can seem really hard. Find someone to talk to, someone who understands how you think and accepts your feelings.

Family members and friends can be good listeners. Being able to talk about what is going on can be the best therapy. If you need more help, please ask.

Professional help is available.

CONCHITA MING Child Development Project Coordinator HEALTH HTH