Homework, chores, TV, computer time, bedtime: are each of these areas potential land mines that can start a fight with your child each night? If you answer that question with a “yes,” you’ve already taken the first step toward making things better. You’ve recognized that there is a pattern of behavior and interaction... Read more »
You hear that you should let your child face natural consequences, but what exactly does this mean? Many parents struggle with this concept because they don’t fully understand what constitutes a "natural" consequence. And sometimes parents have difficulty relinquishing control because they feel they always have to get their child to obey. I’ve talked to many... Read more »
As a parent, when all else fails, sometimes all you can do is laugh. But did you also know that finding the humor in a situation is actually a helpful coping skill that, when used correctly, can be very effective? For starters, laughter helps give you some objectivity and allows you to find common ground... Read more »
“I am SO angry right now!!! Why should I give my child another chance, when he’s just going to do it again?!” You're not alone if you find yourself feeling frustrated, angry or hurt by your child’s repeated heart-piercing statements or inappropriate actions. As parent coaches, we hear about everything from huge curse-laden screaming matches, to lies about homework... Read more »
You know the drill: Your child is screaming at you, ignoring you, being irresponsible or hurtful. Suddenly, you’re yelling at the top of your lungs, matching him decibel for decibel. Later, you think, “Why did I fly off the handle again? I’m so tired of letting him push my buttons so easily.” Yelling is a natural... Read more »
How many times has this gone through your head? Your “difficult” child—the defiant one who’s constantly acting out and upsetting everyone—has just done it again. Maybe he’s called his little sister a foul name, smashed your favorite framed family photo, or screamed in your face. In a moment of defeat, you think, “What... Read more »
I want to reach out and invite you to talk about something we often don’t bring up with others—the hard times we all experience as parents. The moments when you were at the end of your rope, when your child was pushing all your buttons and you didn’t know what to do. Maybe your... Read more »
“I can’t take it anymore. My child is so disrespectful to me—especially in front of other people. I feel like a failure as a parent.” “My teen is failing three classes. She’s throwing her life away. I’m so worried about her I can’t sleep.” “My kid makes me crazy. He’s so angry and hardheaded. He always has... Read more »
For parents dealing with child behavior problems, chances are the holidays make you feel even more stressed, exhausted, and overwhelmed. And for good reason. The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy and family togetherness. And sometimes it is. But very often it's not. The parents that I work with every day are... Read more »
Why are our kids often at each other’s throats in the summer? The biggest cause of fighting during the long summer break is the fact that you’re spending a whole lot of time together. If external stresses increase—if there’s trouble at work, a bad break–up for one of your teens, or you’re caring for a... Read more »
