We all want kids who obey (preferably with a cheerful attitude). When that doesn't happen, we panic. What if, we took obedience off its pedestal and focused on laying a strong foundation instead? Here are three things that matter more than your child's obedience. A child’s obedience is like the gold standard in parenting. When a child … [Read more...]
Angry parents: How to learn from your anger
Tired of responding to your kids with anger? Want to stay calm, but continue yelling instead? You're not alone. Use these tips to learn from your anger and move forward in a positive direction. You’ve heard a lot about being calm: It’s the best way to make a decision. It’s the best way to support your kids when they’re having a meltdown. It’s … [Read more...]
How to Handle Homework Resistance Like a Pro
You've tried everything - bribes, threats, rewards - and your child still has a meltdown when it's time for homework. Use these tips to reduce homework resistance and solve those homework battles once and for all! The math packet is due tomorrow. He’s had 4 days to work on it. He’s done nothing. You’re panicking. With baseball … [Read more...]
Bedtime Routine Solutions You Can Use Tonight
You don't have to dread bedtime! Use this list to create a bedtime routine solution that works for your unique child. Bedtime. That horrendous time of day when you are exhausted, and yet, your kids seem to have a never-ending supply of energy. When all you want to do is sit down and veg out, and all your kids seem to care about is … [Read more...]
Common Bedtime Challenges (and How to Avoid Them)
If bedtime battles have you feeling stuck, this list of common bedtime challenges may help you understand why bedtime is so difficult - and what you can do to encourage a peaceful bedtime routine in your home. Before your hand is on the doorknob, little footsteps are right behind you. He’s not asleep like you assumed, and your ninja-style … [Read more...]
5 Important Brain Facts Every Parent Needs to Know
Understanding how the brain works and how it impacts behavior can help you be a better parent. Keep these brain facts in mind next time your child shows a big feeling, or better yet, teach your kids about these important brain processes. I always feel like I need to make a disclaimer at the beginning of articles about the brain. The brain is … [Read more...]
Permission Slips Every Parent Needs
It's easy to slip into thinking you "should" parent in a certain way or you "should" be able to manage a certain challenging behavior. But, the truth is, we are imperfect parents doing the best we can with the information we have. Today, I encourage you to write yourself a few "permission slips." If you have a child in school, you're familiar … [Read more...]
5 Ways to Encourage Your Kids to Listen the First Time
Stop repeating yourself 1,000 times. Stop bribing or threatening your kids to listen. Use these tips to encourage your kids to listen the first time you ask them to do something. You’re tired of repeating yourself 1000 times. You’re tired of the constant arguing -- the disagreeing with everything you say. Would it be so hard for them to … [Read more...]
9 ways to improve cooperation from your kids
Tired of arguing, begging and bribing your kids to help out around the house..or do anything you ask? These 9 tips will help you improve the cooperation from your kids. You're standing at the kitchen island as your kids stampede away into the other room. They grab video game controllers and wrestle for their places on the couch. In front … [Read more...]
When Kids Don’t Want to Talk About What They Did Wrong
You believe it's important that your child admit their mistakes and own up to behavior that hurts others or is unacceptable. Unfortunately, when you try to talk to them, you get resistance - blame, avoidance, and "I don't know." Here are some tips to try when your child doesn't want to talk about what they did wrong. According to brain … [Read more...]
