What do the neighbors think? If they only knew the begging, pleading, and negotiating that goes on in your home. Maybe they'd understand why yelling is the ONLY way your kids do what you ask. You've tried being the "nice mom" who doesn't yell, and no matter how hard you tried, it never worked. The only way to get your kids' attention is by … [Read more...]
How to Reduce Sibling Rivalry: A Parent’s Guide
You're starting to wonder if it's possible to have a car ride without an argument in the backseat. Or a meal at the table. Or anything, really. Sibling rivalry has taken over your house, and it's driving you crazy. Thankfully, there are things you can do to reduce the amount of sibling rivalry in your home. Tips To Reduce Sibling … [Read more...]
Learning to Embrace Imperfect Parenting
Thank you to April Finley for this guest post. Read more about her in the bio below! I’m a perfectionist. I remember when that felt like a positive thing: when I was in school, it meant I generally did my best, double-checked my work, and completed my homework moments after it was assigned. While interviewing for jobs, it was my go-to … [Read more...]
Tips for parenting a highly verbal preschooler
You’ve had to explain the gravitational pull of the moon. You’ve heard a recap of last year’s trip to the beach. And, you’ve negotiated a weather-appropriate outfit. All before you pour the breakfast cereal. These conversations continue as you put shoes on and head to the car. On the road, you hear a play-by-play of the street signs and … [Read more...]
5 hidden messages in your intense child’s words (and how to respond)
The kicking on the back of your seat is getting more intense. “That’s enough!” you say, glancing at the grimacing face in the back seat. “You can’t make me!” she responds, kicking harder now. Your muscles tense. You hold your breath. You want to scream, “Oh, I can too make you stop. Don’t tempt me.” But you don’t. You know it will only … [Read more...]
A simple visualization to help you stay calm and confident in stressful parenting situations
Glancing at the recipe, you gather ingredients, preheat the oven, and wrestle the correct pan out of the overcrowded cabinet. You’re getting a late start. Again. Without warning, a thundering roar fills the kitchen. Your kids barrel in, all talking at once, demanding that you hear “their side” of the story first. Talk about feeling … [Read more...]
How to reduce competition between siblings
Anything can turn into a competition between your kids. Who has the tallest french fry. Who has the most homework. Who brushed their teeth more efficiently. Seriously. Nothing is off limits for those two. And, no matter how hard you try to tell them “it doesn’t matter who has the longest pinky toenail” they aren’t interested in … [Read more...]
When your child prefers one parent over the other
“No! I want daddy to do it!” Your 3-year-old has wedged himself between the bed and the dresser. Refusing to let you help him get dressed. “Daddy’s at work right now. Mommy’s here! I can help you.” Attempting to get closer, his little hands push you away. The hurt inside you grows. “What makes dad so special? I’m here with you all day. … [Read more...]
Why kids use bad words (and how to respond)
“You’re a poopy head” “I’m not a poopy head. You’re a poopy head! Poopy-head! Poopy-head!” “Oh yeah? Well, you’re a…” Swiftly moving into the room, you put a stop to the potty talk. “We don’t use that kind of language in this house. What’s gotten into you two?” Then, launching into a lecture, you reemphasize the importance of kind … [Read more...]
What to do when your child knows better but does it anyway
The call from the school came out of the blue. Your child pushed someone at recess. The other kid went to the nurse. Your child went to the principal's office. Furious, you scan through a list of possible consequences. Apparently, everything you've tried to teach about kindness was useless. Or, was it? What to do when your kids know … [Read more...]
