Do you ever feel badly that a parenting tool everyone thinks is oh so great isn’t working for you? Or just frustrated in general that a tool you would like to use doesn’t seem to work? No matter how great a parenting tool may seem, in truth, parenting tools are not one size fits all. Sometimes… Continue Reading
Siblings teasing can be a huge source of annoyance and conflict for the whole family. If you find yourself wishing the teasing would just go away here are some tried and true ideas for reducing teasing between siblings: 1. Be wary of choosing sides: Even if you know which sibling started the teasing, pointing it… Continue Reading
Our children are capable, competent beings from birth. Often the struggles we find ourselves caught in with our children can be eased by recognizing and honoring their age appropriate capabilities. And with their capable, competent selves appreciated and affirmed, we can now build a strong foundation for the future independent and successful adult we all hope for. This continuing… Continue Reading
Dyslexia is still a relatively poorly understood condition that actually affects more children (and adults) than you might realize. As a parent you do of course want the best for your children, so being able to recognize the symptoms of dyslexia is important. Normally, dyslexia starts to be more noticeable during primary or elementary… Continue Reading
The way we treat our children directly impacts what they believe about themselves. Having respectful interactions with our children is not only important, it is at the heart of raising respectful kids. Respectful Parents Raise Respectful Kids Most parents would like to raise respectful, caring cooperative kids. But so often we end up modeling disrespect. When… Continue Reading
These little choices now, like what shirt to wear, what color shoes to buy, when to share with a friend are all opportunities that will help build confidence for when those bigger choices come around! Try to keep realistic expectations, support the falls by providing the space in which the kids can find, make & create solutions, remember to encourage and keep boundaries so they can succeed! Continue Reading
Using compliance as a parenting strategy commonly involves conflicts, power struggles and threats of losing a privilege, punishment or bribery. Many parents want and expect compliance because they are the parent or “things need to get done” or “time is of the essence” or safety is a concern. However, compliance often comes at the expense… Continue Reading
By choosing non-punitive or positive parenting ways I did give up control (or the illusion of control really) but I gained this incredible sense of family harmony, of connection, of so much joy. No we don’t always get it right, and it’s not always smooth sailing, but none of us are afraid to say sorry, take a huge breath, start over or try again. The best part is that much more than public questioning or tsk tsking that the other mom warned about, to my surprise I often hear awesome comments and see frowns turn into smiles. Continue Reading
We all want positive, respectful relationships with our children—and we want our children to
grow up experiencing the same. Using the power of pause is a simple tool that has the
profound ability to transform our relationships, from infancy on. Continue Reading
Have you ever had a conversation a bit like this? “Can I have that toy?” “Not today.” “But’s it’s my favorite kind.” “I said NO.” “Why???” “Because I said SO!” “Ugh, but… I waaaaaaaaaaaaant it!” “Please don’t argue.” “But I REALLY want it.” “If you don’t stop arguing, you are not getting any sweets tomorrow… Continue Reading