Be an ambassador for peace
While growing up with your parents, there may be times when things may not go on well.
There are times when tensions heighten in the family due to financial crisis, petty quarrels or arguments between your parents.
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Sometimes your parents may even not talk to each other. These can take a toll on you as children, especially if the tension prolongs.
Such times may be critical times for them and you may occasionally become a victim of circumstances. Your dad or mum may vent his or her anger on you by not treating you well or they may decide not to pay your fees or buy your favourite things.
But as a child you should stay neutral during such trying times. Do not take anyone's side. But note that you can do things to reduce the tension at home and bring your family back to life once again.
Here's how to do it
You can organise a family meeting and let your parents know that their behaviour is greatly affecting you. A few mature and well-conceived words will have a great impact on them, particularly if they are sensitive and thoughtful in nature.
When you find yourself unable to verbally express your love, sympathy or understanding for your parents and what they are currently going through, express it through gestures.
After you have met them to tell them how you feel, try and do things that will make them happy. You can wash and iron your parents' clothes or cook for them or if you can afford, buy a gift for them for no particular reason at all.
It should be something small, perhaps flowers or a tie. They will think about your concerns and give it a thought.
Give your parents unexpected attention. A gentle hug or thoughtful inquiries about their favourite hobbies will let them know you appreciate their very existence. They would love to reciprocate your gestures and also give you the needed attention.
Do not side with any of them. Mothers and daughters often become distanced if the latter is daddy’s little girl and takes sides with him in an argument between her parents. Try to be impartial. If you know your mother is right, stay out of it.
Let the adults handle their own issues. But you can surely let them know how their behaviour makes you feel.
Do not expect things to change overnight. It will be a gradual process.
It may take weeks but once you prove to them that you care about them and do the things they want, they will gradually bury their differences and things will become normal again. If things, however, don't change, do not blame yourself for it. It's entirely not your fault.
They are adults and would figure things out themselves. But by all means don't keep how you feel to yourself. Let them know it.
You can help your dad in his hobby to make him think you care.