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...]
5 reasons you still yell at your kids (and what to do instead)
You've tried everything to get off the crazy train of yelling. Or blaming. Or threatening. Or criticizing your kids. No matter how many "good days" you have, eventually fall back into old patterns again. And then you feel horrible. Your intentions are excellent, but something still seems to be getting in the way of kicking this habit. … [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…” 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 the … [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...]
Raise a kid who can cope with challenges
Thanks to Janine Halloran for this guest post, check out her bio for links to some fantastic coping resources for kids! What images spring to mind when you hear the word “childhood”? When I first think of childhood, I imagine running through sprinklers on a hot summer day, giggles in a pillow fort while reading a silly book, or blowing … [Read more...]
Finding Clarity When You’re Baffled By Your Child’s Behavior
Oatmeal. That’s what started it. You added raisins instead of blueberries and she was off like a rocket. All attempts to diffuse the meltdown were useless. It’s calm now (though you feel like you were run over by a truck). Taking some deep breaths you wonder… What just happened here? Feeling Stuck Unfortunately, this was only one … [Read more...]