My youngest (age 9) and I had a tough morning getting out the door to get to school. She and I decided it was the “worst morning ever”. It was no fun. She didn’t get out of bed for 45 minutes, she had to get ready in 5 minutes, she didn’t get the shower that she needs so badly for her dreadlock hair, she ate her breakfast in the car, she kicked the front seat, pulled her sibling's hair and even tried to hurt me. You get the picture.
Now I don’t want to brag, but I was pretty proud of how it all worked out. I (for the most part) didn’t loose my cool, got the kids to school almost on time, kept everyone safe, and I did ONE THING that got her set up in a way that her tough morning didn’t need to impact the quality of the rest of her day or mine. And, the best part, she came home all smiles, hugs and kisses, handing me artwork that said, “I’m sorry”.
What was that ONE THING that can change a day around? Watch this video to find out.
And after you watch, leave a message in the comments section if this was useful.
Jason and I are having a debate. He wants to do nice, pretty videos–with lighting, a microphone, and a good camera. I want to just get the video done, even if it’s just on my phone with no fancy lighting, during a bad hair day. Tell him that the video is great even without these “extras”. Thanks!
XOX,
Cecilia (and Jason)
The audio and content is the most important part for me. So frequently I don’t see much of the visuals because I only have time for listening–not watching–as I chase my two under two. I “watch” on the fly. I will typically only see snipets of the video and, what I saw of this one, wouldn’t have guessed it was filmed on a phone.
Thanks, April. Good to know. We will also work to provide audio-only links.
I loved this! I loved everything about it. I loved that the response to her “actions” weren’t to tell her everything she did wrong ….and point out all the negatives but to be positive, remind her of her qualities and who she really is. We all have a bad day but we can just call it that — “a bad day (morning)” and not let it define us. All that being said, I love the raw quality of the video. Sorry Jason but I think this style will speak volumes. I’m pretty sure parents who are seeking advice, don’t care about the quality but appreciate the realness of parenting and the family dynamics :)
I like the video being in real time. The authenticity of the experience and what it felt like really came through. Easier to connect with than a more polished and staged production. (Sorry Jason. :))
Two thumbs up;) I definitely like the format of this video… personal and less rehearsed. I believe it connects well with the audience. And btw thanks for another helpful strategy to deal with a difficult situation.
Great video and great strategy! Thanks for the new approach in turning a bad day around. I like it short and sweet and video accomplished that.
I loved the immediacy and unpretentious authenticity of this video. I find it much easier to relate to a mom who has bad hair days and doesn’t let it stop her from sharing something important.
You have my vote for guerrilla parenting videos!
HIllary, I love the term “guerrilla parenting videos”!
this was valuable. : ) Please do not wait for your academy award winning crew or studio to show up and be ready. Life is happening now. Thank you for sharing such raw and true moments of your family life. My son is not quite 3 but we experience the same things in different styles so to speak. As long I watch the message I know will stay in the back of my head and come forth when I need a new approach. I’m truly thankful for the lessons.
A great video indeed. I like the unpolished video, it makes it more real and accessible for me. While I respect what polished looks like the unpolished, hallway video seems immediate and like a conversation I would have with my friend about what happened in my day. One vote for unpolished.
Great video. Keep them coming! I want to help my kids turn their day around.