Sometimes we get caught up in complaining that our children are not responding to us when we would like them to. We think they are dawdling, or taking their “sweet time,” or “dragging their feet” or just being “selfish.” Here’s the thing though, how long does it take for us to respond to a… Continue Reading
Children often enjoy doing household tasks because it gives them a sense of belonging and a feeling of capability. Yet, many families feel that chores lead to power struggles and are a hassle to deal with. The problem with chores very often has to do with how we parents approach the whole idea of chores… Continue Reading
Children love sensory play, messy science experiments, and hands-on activities. While it seems like children are “just playing” during this time, they are actually learning quite a bit. Hands on play activities are important for children to develop and practice many different skills. In this post, Mary Catherine, author of Fun-A-Day is sharing the importance of hands-on… Continue Reading
The ability to have choices over our own life is at the core of our well-being.
When we give our children choices we are letting them know “I trust you and your ability to choose well”. Do we have to be smart about the choices we give our children? Absolutely! But go ahead, trust and give choices, it’s a great way to raise confident and competent children. Continue Reading
Fostering peaceful and lasting childhood memories. Written by Rachel When you think back to your childhood, what do you remember most? Is it the good times or the bad. The times that you went on vacation or just the simple times at home? Making memories with your children does not have to be complex. However… Continue Reading
Here are twelve alternatives to time outs that give parents and children a chance to address choices and situations with the intention to offer guidance while maintaining a positive, respectful and peaceful connection. These alternatives are mostly geared towards children aged 1 to 6 years but also work well beyond that too. Continue Reading
Emotional intelligence, or understanding and managing one’s feelings wisely, is really important for healthy development. Children can really flourish when they are able to recognize, reason, understand and manage emotions. 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
Do you have a curious preschooler? What would happen if you accepted her mistakes, appreciated effort and then simply supported your child in their endeavors? I often find that not demanding, not reprimanding but simply supporting children and helping them find a solution, from a place of love, appreciation and connection goes such a long way! Continue Reading
From adventurous, to predictable to downright picky, children have many many styles of eating. While some parents are quick to believe that there is one right way to get children to eat everything or a magic parenting tool to raise “good” or adventurous eaters, I’m more inclined to believe that it’s a mix of things,… Continue Reading