Other People's Kids- Do you have a friend, relative or neighbor with kids who drive you crazy with their misbehavior? I think we all know one family that fits this description. It puts you into a very uncomfortable position. You know you can't discipline the kids, but you want to be able to enjoy your time with their family. What to do?
Positive Thinking for Kids- During their growth and development, children go through many stages of self-doubt. They are always comparing themselves to others, and they often see themselves as coming up short. As parents, we can offset this natural tendency in our children by giving them the skills to think more positively. It is important that you really listen to your children, and help them overcome their negative thoughts and beliefs. This is, of course, easier to do if you practice positive thinking yourself.
Public Manners- When we're out in public my son seems to forget all the good manners he routinely uses at home. If we run into someone I know he won't even say a polite hello. He forgets to say 'thank you' and 'excuse me'. The list goes on. How can I get him to remember to use his manners?
Respectful Child- Often I encounter parents who complain about their child's lack of respect for them, only to hear them turn around and screech at the same child, 'Stop it! What is the matter with you? You're behaving like a wild animal!'
Shy vs. Bad Manners- Even the most vivacious, talkative child can suddenly become
timid when faced with social situations around adults. Most kids
will overcome this with time and practice. Some, however, are
naturally more tentative with strangers and will always be more
reserved in social situations.
Stop Picking Your Nose!- Nose picking is often done to relieve anxiety and bring comfort. Because the nose is always at hand (excuse me, I couldn't resist!), it's an addictive habit.
Stop That Tattling!- I have one child who tattles with a vengeance. The infractions run from minor issues to major crimes, and often cover incredibly ridiculous things, such as, "She breathed on me ON PURPOSE!"
Suddenly: Temper Tantrums- Our 6 year old has just started throwing temper tantrums. He has always been so well behaved that it has thrown us for a loop. Any suggestions?
Taking a Road Trip with Your Baby- There's no question: Marathon car trips with a baby on board take a good amount of planning and organization. But it can be done - and yes, it can even be fun!
Tantrums, Fussing and Whining- If you ask parents to list the most frustrating discipline problems during early childhood, you would find that these three items appear on every list. All children master their own version of these behaviors - every parent has to deal with them!
Teaching Good Manners- Good manners are a very important key to your child's social success, but no child is born with good manners. Teaching them is a parents responsibility.
The Early Bird: Waking up too early- I don't need an alarm clock. Every day my daughter wakes up early - usually before 6:00. Is there any way to get her to sleep longer, or is she just an early bird?
The Respectful Child- Often I encounter parents who complain about their child's lack of respect for them, only to hear them turn around and screech at the same child, "Stop it! What is the matter with you? You're behaving like a wild animal!"
To Spank or Not to Spank?- In my house, my father had a belt hanging on a hook in the kitchen. It was a visible reminder to be good or to be put over his knee. We were all afraid of that belt. One day, my father couldn't find it
Transitioning to the Sippy Cup- My seven-month-old baby is breastfed and just starting on solids. Does he need water or juice? When should I teach him to drink from a cup? If he starts using a cup, will that encourage him to wean from the breast?
When a Child is Caught Stealing- Money has been disappearing from my wallet, and my daughter is suddenly buying things that she couldn't possibly afford on her own. I suspect that she's been taking the money from me, and it makes me wonder if this is the only incident of her stealing.
When a Child Steals- Many children will steal something at least once in their lives. If parents don't panic and overreact, it can be a time for teaching a valuable lesson. There are different reasons that children steal, and it helps to know your child's motivation so that you can address your child's belief directly. The bottom line, however, is this: stealing is wrong and it's against the law. This is the primary message you want to convey to your child.
When Children Lie- Children lie for a variety of reasons. They lie to keep their parents happy with them, they lie so they won't get in trouble, they lie to cover embarrassment or inadequacy, or they lie because they don't make the clear distinction between fact and fiction. Teaching your child the value of telling the truth takes time, teaching and patience.
When Toddlers Bite Other Children- A worried mother asks, "Today at our play group my son BIT my friend's daughter! My friend acted like it was a normal childhood problem, and told me not to worry about it, but I'm horrified! Why did my son do this? How can I prevent it from happening again?"
When Your Child Wants to Quit Sports- All three of my children have been involved in soccer, baseball, swimming and Ty Kwon Do. And all three say that gym class is one of their favorite classes. I realize that sometimes it's not easy to get kids to commit to sports activities. But the long term benefits for your child make it worth the battle.
Summer heat is here. Whether you are looking for fun crafts, great recipes, fun family activities or travel tips, you'll find it all here. Here are a few examples to get you started...
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Family Matters Radio
FMR is a nationally syndicated radio program developed to help you live your best life, hosted by Caroline & Jacquie. No rants and raves - you get enough of that from your kids. Choose a segment below to begin listening!
There's no question: Marathon car trips with a baby on board take a good amount of planning and organization. But it can be done - and yes, it can even be fun!
If you ask parents to list the most frustrating discipline problems during early childhood, you would find that these three items appear on every list. All children master their own version of these behaviors - every parent has to deal with them!
My seven-month-old baby is breastfed and just starting on solids. Does he need water or juice? When should I teach him to drink from a cup? If he starts using a cup, will that encourage him to wean from the breast?
Many children will steal something at least once in their lives. If parents don't panic and overreact, it can be a time for teaching a valuable lesson. There are different reasons that children steal, and it helps to know your child's motivation so that you can address your child's belief directly. The bottom line, however, is this: stealing is wrong and it's against the law. This is the primary message you want to convey to your child.
Missed the last couple of newsletters? Haven't visited for a while? This section highlights articles and crafts that have recently been added to FC...
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