So how to handle over-wound, exuberant, annoying behaviors in a positive way? Everyone has their own personality and style. Embrace your child for who they are, that kind of acceptance alone will help you see that their behaviors are often just an expression of who they are and how they approach the world, not things done to annoy you. Continue Reading
These Six Positive Parenting strategies can help you respond to your child when they are behaving in defiant, disrespectful or unhelpful ways. Children often act out when they are lost, fearful and in need of guidance. A child that is being defiant needs to reconnect with you and find his way back to calm. And until… Continue Reading
A store cashier asked my daughter recently, “Are you being a good girl for Santa?” And then a few minutes later in the parking garage an elderly couple asked her same question. After a quick smile she turned to me. Her face was all twisted up, eyes looking far away with a hint of overwhelm. The… Continue Reading
Inside: Why young children misbehave even when you tell them not to do something. Learn what you can do to discipline in a positive way that helps children behave better. It was mid morning at playgroup and tension was rising between Theo and his mother. There was a phone, perfectly placed on the edge of… Continue Reading
The best questions to get kids to talk and open up about their life One great way to encourage children to open up is to make a habit of cherishing daily conversations with your child. Conversations build connection. When children feel connected to their parent, they are more likely to feel well and be cooperative. Why should… Continue Reading
When my son was four, I took him on a day trip to sled and play in the snow. It was a beautiful cold yet sunny day. Up on a mountain, with the alps in the background we climbed up and sled down a hill some 25 times in a row. When I was a feeling… Continue Reading
After school meltdowns are quite common for children from preschool to middle school. Here is what you need to know to handle these after school meltdowns and help your child feel better again. Children can experience quite the emotional ups and downs while away from you. Maybe a classmate didn’t want to share a toy, an… Continue Reading
Encouragement is about process and effort and can facilitate the development of a growth mindset. Encouragement offers an opportunity for a child to recognize their strengths, and allows them to grow an internal gague for how they are doing. Continue Reading
Inside: Understand the feelings behind aggressive behaviors and help your toddler manage big meltdowns and fits of anger. On a sunny, beautiful morning, Mariah was on the floor, in a pile of tears. Her little hands stretched wide reaching desperately for Jenny. More accurately, reaching for the apple and egg in Jenny’s hands. Because for… Continue Reading
Inside: Children with positive self-esteem recognize their abilities and feel proud about what they are able to. You can actively help build your child’s self-esteem by fostering connection, being encouraging and welcoming mistakes. After jumping down from a tree at the park my son stood up, did a little victory dance and then ran off… Continue Reading