Don't assume your child knows what to do or say at the next family gathering, friend's birthday party, or other social situation. Prepare them in advance using these tips. A few weeks before Christmas, I asked my kids, “What would you say if someone gave you a gift you didn’t really like?” They looked at me wide-eyed and confused. Can we … [Read more...]
Reduce Shame: 21 Things Your Child Needs To Hear
Is your child stuck in the "I'm a bad kid" cycle? Caregivers can reduce the effects of shame, using these phrases to remind your child that they are seen, known, and loved. Shame is a powerful force. It sends the message that you are not worthy of love. It tells us we should hide our true selves because people would reject us if we … [Read more...]
Three Things to do When Your Child is in the Middle of a Huge Meltdown
Big emotions can be scary, overwhelming, and stressful for parents (and for kids!). Use these three tips to parent with a calm confidence during your child's next meltdown. She stands in the kitchen screaming. Hands clenched at her sides. Eyes focused and glaring. You try everything - offering a hug, yelling “settle down,” sending her to … [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...]
How to prepare for your child’s next high-intensity meltdown
How to Prepare for Your Intense Child's Next Meltdown Glancing at the clock, you mentally cross your fingers. You’re parenting alone tonight and your energy is running low. It would be great if your child made it to bedtime without a meltdown. For your sake. For your other children’s sake. You know he can’t help it. Some nights are … [Read more...]
3 Words Your Child is Longing to Hear
The second I walk in the door, she’s on my heels. Showing me a thousand pictures, talking non-stop about her day, balancing on one foot, then the other. If I’m distracted, she might mix things up a little. Pulling on my sweater, singing at the top of her lungs, or whining. She wants my attention. But she wants more than just my gaze, she … [Read more...]
How to teach ungrateful kids to be thankful after fun activities
Tired of hearing complaining and whining from your kids when you leave a fun activity? Whether it's Disney World or a trip to Target, these tips will ease the transition and help you teach ungrateful kids to appreciate the things you do as a family. It’s been a long day at the amusement park. Hot weather. Long lines. Way too much … [Read more...]
Helping your child self-regulate during the holidays
I feel like there should be a warning for all parents around mid-November that reads: Caution. Self-regulation may be limited. As the season's shift and the store shelves begin to burst with the latest toys and flashy gadgets, kids dream of candy, Santa, and getting gifts for doing absolutely nothing. That’s a lot of excitement to … [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...]
How to help your tantruming child calm down
You've tried everything but nothing seems to help your tantruming child settle down. Anger and frustration over "little" things can sometimes last an hour (or more!). These tips will help you stay present and positive with your child, even when they don't calm down immediately. You give your child one more reminder, “Turn off the iPad, … [Read more...]
