Have you had visions of what you want your relationship to look, sound, and feel like when your children are grown? These visions, or goals, can be very helpful in figuring out how to parent now so you can achieve the parent-adult goal of your dreams. Here are 3 helpful steps to guide you…
In my survey about the top challenges you are experiencing during the summer, the #1 challenge is trying to get kids off mobile devices! I’m not surprised. So, you are asking, “How do I get my kid/teen off screens? Nothing is working.” Whenever someone asks me a “how do I …” question, my…
How many ways can tweens and teens rebel? Let me count the ways. 1. Yelling their rebellion and refusal bluntly and clearly…. “No!” “You can’t make me.” “I’m not going to.” What do you do with that response?!!! How do you move an immovable child, tween, or teen? 2. Putting you off…
Many parents have given up on teaching social skills because there are so many examples of poor social skills everywhere. I encourage you to persevere in the mindset of teaching skills rather than getting annoyed if your children are not exhibiting them already. Also, think about what you are showing in your actions. I…
This is the role-play skit that Parenting Expert Cynthia Klein did with podcaster Sarah Baker of Momma Stories Podcast Posted May 15, 2020. Below are 3 role-plays to illustrate how an adult’s response to a child expressing their struggles can either block or open up communication. An adult uses the Supporter Role when the…
Your teen will be more receptive to learning important living skills from you when they understand the benefits for their future. They will also be more responsive when they have their own skills check list where they monitor what they have learned so far and what skills to learn, build and strengthen. Otherwise, crucial skills…
Learning specific communication tools can make talking with your teen about tough topics easier. In this blog post series, I’ll help you gain greater expertise and confidence during these “tough topic talks” so your teen will be responsive, and you will have fruitful conversations together. … The 7 steps to Creating Successful Discussions With Your…
Parents can easily get stuck feeling frustrated with their child’s behavior and think their child will never change. Finding themselves thinking that their child is a little too selfish a little too often, uncooperative, careless, out of control, or too emotional…leading to fear that they will always be this way. Good news! Your child is…
As summertime approaches, many parents I talk with express concern about setting time limits on video games and social media, establishing clear expectations, and maintaining consistent follow through. I recommend that rather than telling kids to stop what they’re doing, parents focus on the positive things you expect from your children and the wonderful activities…
I was raised in a culture that emphasizes kids’ academic success. Because of this, I was not taught the importance of parents and children playing together to create emotional bonds. As a result, I constantly told my children what to do to become successful in my eyes. We rarely had fun together. By the time…
Terms of Use: The articles in my blog are a matter of my opinion and perspective, offered to help stimulate parents' thinking about their child raising and common concerns, conflicts, and changes that typically occur. They are meant to be educational only. Because they are general in nature, they should NOT be used as a substitute for getting qualified professional psychological, medical, or legal help should serious need arise. The resources I recommend are mostly consistent with my parenting approach. Use them at your own discretion as you would my articles. The parents’ success stories are particular to their family situation. This does not mean that you would get the same results. They are to be used for inspiration that by you changing first, you have the greatest chance of creating a positive change in your family.