Manage Difficult Behaviors With Three Magic Words

Do your kids nag, complain, or whine about rules and limits?

Do they attempt to negotiate or beg for more TV, candy, toys, or playtime despite repeated warnings that the issue is not up for discussion?

Do you interpret these behaviors to mean that your kids aren't "listening" to you? 

Does that make you feel like you have to set firmer limits, but you don't know how?  

I've got a solution for you.

Why Kids Tattle and What To Do About It

She took my headband!
He touched my Legos!
She's using my iPod!
He won't stop bothering us!
She won't stop hitting us!
They spit on us! Eww!

Those are just a few of the "tattletales" I've heard from my daughter over the years. 

Common responses may sound like - 

Give it back!
Put down those Legos!
Leave it alone!
Stop harassing your sister!
That's not nice! 

But, what do kids learn when we respond with directives, demands, and judgment? 

What to Do When You Don't Agree With Your Partner's Parenting

If you're married, parenting with a partner, or co-parenting with an ex, how often do you agree or feel like you're on the same page?

Are you skilled at communicating without others feeling attacked or criticized?

Even if you agree on basic parenting principles, it doesn't mean you'll see eye-to-eye on everything, and how you express your feelings about your differences will send your children essential messages about how to respond to conflict.

#1 Way to Keep from Losing Your Cool with Your Kids

When your kids are having a hard time, and you're feeling impatient and annoyed, how do you keep from losing your cool?

Whether it's your children stressing you out or the people around you provoking your anger, do you ever find yourself self-righteously unleashing a hoard of buried emotions on others?

What is it about what other people think, say, or do that makes us so mad? Why can't we keep our emotions in check when someone says something hurtful or critical?

I'm no stranger to criticism. 

Single Best Strategy for Gaining Your Child's Respect (How to Repair)

There I was, feeling bewildered, and standing outside the door my eight-year-old had just slammed shut after demanding her privacy.

What just happened? 

We were enjoying lunch, I mentioned her dance class starting - and BAM! She turned on a dime. She crossed her arms, glared at me with a squinty gaze, and refused to engage.

Where did I go wrong? Why was she being so disrespectful?

Your children's behaviors may confuse and confound you, too. When there seems to be no rhyme or reason for their actions - when you're faced with defiance - there is one thing you can do to reconnect and teach respect.