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Say this, Not that: A Parent’s Guide

  Are you tired of being ignored? Feeling frustrated that your kids respond to you with grunts and “I don’t know?” Sometimes, the way we phrase things can make a big difference.  It’s not always easy to remember what to say or how to say it, especially when your child

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Anger is a Feeling Too!

Many parents try to send their children the message, “Whatever emotion you feel is ok.” However, when their child expresses anger, parents often send a different message – anger is NOT ok. “Stop that!   Calm down! That’s enough!” We don’t mean to send our kids mixed messages. Unfortunately, anger

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Parenting teenagers can be tricky, simplify by staying focused on the relationship

Parents of Teens: Keep Your Focus on the Relationship

Parents and teenagers. Seems like a disaster in the making. Teens are going through a period of uncertainty and radical growth and change. They are struggling to find their own identity and make their own decisions; while still wanting to be the little child, babied by their parents. Parents are

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Protecting our kids is a good thing -- to a point -- but sometimes it keeps them from learning valuable skills. And that's why I let my toddler use a knife.

Why I Let My Toddler Use a Knife

As a parent, “caution” is my middle name. I am concerned about my children’s safety and do what I can to keep them out of harm’s way. That being said, I also believe that children should be exposed to certain experiences in order to keep them safe. That’s why I introduced

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101 Ways to Say “I Love You”

Saying, “I love you” is nice, but do you feel like your children are wanting more? How can you be sure that each of your children is feeling loved? According to Dr. Gary Chapman, Author of the 5 Love Languages of Children, there are 5 ways each of us can

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Stop thinking for your kids! Empower your child to be a critical thinker and problem-solver using these tips. dreary-flesh.flywheelsites.com

Help Your Child Become A Critical Thinker and Problem Solver

You’re SO tired of reminding your daughter to feed the dog. Every day. The reminders. The nagging. The same argument.  And, to make matters worse, you usually end up feeding the dog! You wish she would just take some responsibility; figure out a way to remember. To just do it

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Your teen wants you to feel heard, understood, and loved. Learn how to improve the communication with your tween or teen by improving your listening skills!

Bridging the Gap: Improving Communication with your Teen

Sitting with a teenage client and her family in my therapy office, she declares: “My parents just don’t understand!” Digging a little deeper, I ask, “What would help you feel like they understood you?” She snaps back, “If they would just listen to me!” On the defense, her mom responds,

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50 ways to say "good job" without saying "good job" (plus a free printable!)

50 Ways to Say “Good Job” (Without Saying “Good Job”)

There was a time when parents were told to praise their child’s every move as a way of building their self-esteem.  Not knowing exactly how to do this, many parents resorted to the phrase “good job.” This generic phrase has long lost its motivating incentive. Unfortunately, many parents and teachers

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Help Your Child Manage Back to School Anxiety

Some kids squeal with excitement about of the start of the new school year – new backpacks, sharp crayons, picking out the first day of school outfit. Other kids refuse to admit that the day is coming, they choose to soak up every last drop of summer before turning their

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Tired of Being an Angry Parent? 6 Tips to Control Your Anger

    Do you find yourself making threats, inflicting punishments, or screaming in anger? Do you feel overwhelmed, tired or stressed, and unsure how to handle your anger differently? Do you feel like a horrible parent? You are not alone.   Many parents struggle to control their anger. If you

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