Tired of your child lying, your kids stretching the truth, or hearing them make up stories you know aren't even close to accurate? It's natural to want a tried-and-true consequence that will end lying forever. But, there's usually more to the behavior than just the lies, use these tips to promote a life-long attitude of honesty in your … [Read more...]
The best way to deal with an argumentative child
The daily battles and the power struggles are getting old. Why can't you just ask them to do something without hearing complaints and groans? Learn how to deal with an argumentative child using positive, respectful strategies that will bring peace back to home. “Please hang up your backpack” seems like such a simple request. Most days, it … [Read more...]
3 Reasons Kids Avoid Taking Responsibility (and how to respond)
The house rattles from the intensity of their screams. By the time you enter the room, the argument is out of control. Opening a can of worms, you ask, “What’s going on!?” “He started it!” “No, he did!” “Did not!” “Did too!” This conversation is going nowhere. “One at a time...can you tell me what happened?” “Well...he wouldn’t … [Read more...]
How to Move from Passive Parent to Confident Parent
“I want that toy!” your child demands. “Not today, honey. We’re just here for a few things.” “I really want that toy.” “I know, but…” Definitely, your child interrupts, “All the other kids have one, and I want one too. I’m putting it in the cart.” “Oh, um...we’ll see...OK.” Confused and defeated, you roll the cart to … [Read more...]
Stop trying to find the “perfect” consequence
Years ago, I huddled around a kitchen table with two frazzled, exhausted parents and their three kids. The notebook page in front of us listed 20 undesirable behaviors on one side and corresponding consequences on the other. On a separate piece of paper, we created a range of rewards - small trinkets to large family outings. It was an … [Read more...]
The gift your teenager needs, but will never request
When I was young, we had one main phone. Connected to the wall with a super long cord. The cord could stretch to the basement stairs, the only place you could talk in “private.” If someone was on the phone, you had two options. Wait. Or pick up another extension and say, “hurry up!” to whoever was talking. School day gossip traveled slowly. … [Read more...]
7 Things a Parent of an Intense Child Wants You to Know
The slamming doors. The random meltdowns. The screaming for hours. This is not the stuff you post on social media. Living with a child who struggles with aggression, anxiety, sensitivity, or impulsivity can be physically and mentally exhausting for everyone involved. There are no easy solutions. No quick fixes. The good days are good. … [Read more...]
How to respond in “non-negotiable” parenting situations
It’s time for my daughter to go to bed. It’s late. I’m tired. She’s tired. But of course, she’s also not completely on board with the “going to bed” plan. As a 3-year-old, she has definitely become more independent. Things she used to do without a second thought are now battles. She pushes each and every boundary. Which leaves me … [Read more...]
Teaching Kids Be Mindful About Their Needs
We're heading home from the science museum. It's been a busy morning. We observed, investigated, played, and learned for hours. It was also loud, crowded, and involved tons of walking. "When we get home, we're going to have some quiet time," I say, hoping this will counteract the effects of overstimulation. Rather than a cheerful "OK mom!" … [Read more...]
Permission to be the parent your child needs
Grab a cup of coffee, let’s chat. Listen, there are a million (billion, trillion?) parenting articles and books out there. Some are fantastic, while others pile on the guilt and flame your anxiety. It's easy to get caught up in the "Should's" and "Should not's" of parenting. But here's the bottom line: You are the expert on your child. … [Read more...]
