How do we help a child own up to their behavior choices and begin to make a change? The following methods encourage a child to be in charge of their good choice making… Tell them the expectations upfront so they know what they are working towards. Give them a chance to rewind when they’ve made […]
We all have an inner Mommy Monster lurking within us. It lays low, waiting for our children to push us to our limits. We try desperately to keep the monster hidden and out of sight, but no matter what, it creeps into our mindset and takes over our approach when we least expect it. There’s no escaping this […]
Children as young as three can think things through using the statements… “If … Then…” This is called the age of reason where they can judge what might happen next if they choose certain behaviors. This means at this early age, we can already guide our children to take on the job of regulating […]
What child doesn’t love a trip to the bank? It’s one of the many errands on Mom’s list of places to go that kids simply don’t mind attending. Why is this? SUCKERS!!! Here’s what happened the other day: I was in the drive-through line at our bank… It was one of the final days of summer, […]
When parents ask me to step in as they try to make a change in their child’s behavior, I often say that things will probably get worse before they get better. In other words, you might see your child’s behavior escalate as they try to wriggle out of your new set of boundaries. Your child may test you to […]
Discipline doesn’t have to be a dirty word in your home. In fact, when you think about it, there are several positive four-letter words associated with discipline. 1. NEED Children don’t know they need discipline, and they may not act like they enjoy your boundaries especially when you are in the heat of a battle, but the right kind of discipline involving […]
Hurry ! Before the rush of back to school events begins to take over your calendar, plan a weekly game night. Book it on your calendar. Then, turn off the tv and video games, put away your phone or IPAD, and leave the dirty dishes in the sink. Meet your family at the kitchen table or […]
Believe me. I am the first to melt when I see a little girl with ruffles on her tush… or a handsome young preschooler with a Cincinnati Reds jersey to match his MLB hat. I simply love to find a good deal on great clothes for kids, and my own children know when it comes to a photo opt… […]
Here is the honest truth… It is the first week of July, halfway through summer and it is clear to me that brothers and sisters don’t always get along. We have a choice to make as their parents… and what we decide could make or break the rest of our summer. Here are three responses […]
Summer is here, and like many families we have been anxiously awaiting a getaway that we planned months ago. The plan includes an ending spot where we will park our family for a few days and savor the sun and relaxation that a vacation brings. I would like you to think about your child’s behavior […]
