Your daughter is the one who tells the younger siblings how to play "correctly" with their Barbies. Your son can stand firmly against your decision, presenting the numerous reasons that you are wrong and he is right. Yet, when it comes to worries, these kids crumble. Their ability to be confident and … [Read more...]
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 is in the middle of a meltdown. So, here's a quick reference … [Read more...]
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 is a tricky emotion. Very few people have … [Read more...]
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 also going through a period of uncertainty. … [Read more...]
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 kitchen knives to my children at an early age. Yep, I'm talking … [Read more...]
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 experience love. The 5 love languages are: Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, … [Read more...]
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 without having to be asked! Help Your Child Become a Critical … [Read more...]
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, "What do you mean?! I listen to you all day … [Read more...]
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 continue to use this phrase with their … [Read more...]
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 attention towards the inevitable. There are some kids, though, who show … [Read more...]