Child development is a slow process. It's not easy to parent through difficult stages and phases. Unfortunately, you cannot rush maturity. In parenting, there's power in perseverance. The other day, I ordered something online and it was delivered less than 24 hours later. What?! I mean, I like fast shipping, but this felt a little too … [Read more...]
How to make an effective parenting resolution (Any Time of the Year)
Good parents look for ways to grow and improve their parenting any time of the year. Use this tip to make an effective resolution - even if it's not New Year's Eve. The pressure to make parenting resolutions usually comes around January 1st each year. But, the decision to make a big change in your parenting can also come on March 13th, … [Read more...]
10 Tips for a Respectful Conversation about Positive Parenting
Sharing your parenting philosophy and strategies with friends and family isn't always an easy task. Here are 10 tips to help you have a respectful conversation about positive parenting - even if the other person doesn't agree! There's nothing like a holiday party to bring on the hard conversations. Your sister wonders why you don't use … [Read more...]
3 things that matter more than your child’s obedience
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...]
