A successful family is a family where growth has the highest value. Growth has more value than what is accomplished or the final “product.” This means that we encourage challenging our weaknesses without judgment. When we can’t change them, the other family members take up the slack and don’t continually ask, “Why did (or didn’t)…
Four Lessons from “Inside Out” to Discuss With Kids By Jason Marsh, Vicki Zakrzewski | July 14, 2015 | 1 Comment This is the post on the Greater Good Science Center at U.C. Berkeley shared with you by Cynthia Klein, Family Success Coach, bridges2understa.wpstagecoach.com, 650.679,8138. blog http://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/four_lessons_from_inside_out_to_discuss_with_kids The new Pixar film has moved viewers young and…
As parents realize that pressuring children to get all A’s is stressing them out too much, they have shifted to saying “Do your best” instead. I propose that “Do your best” can also cause kids to feel pressured to meet their parents’ high expectations. Here is why I say this. When parents tell me that…
My husband and I are working with Cynthia and I learned that I was a part of my 10 year-old son’s outbursts. So, rather than trying to change him, which I would tried doing through arguing and yelling which never worked, I’m working on changing myself instead. My son gets upset with projects at school,…
kidsdata advisory The Lucile Packard Foundation for Children’s Health | June 4, 2015 Survey: One in five 9th graders in CA considered suicide The percentage of students in California public schools who reported suicidal ideation within the past year is disturbing—nearly 1 in every 5 students in grades 9, 11, and non-traditional classes, according…
Only if children’s basic emotional needs are filled, can they learn to like and value themselves. For this reason, understanding our children’s needs is the first step in creating the proper climate for healthy growth and development. These needs can be grouped into four basic areas; belonging, uniqueness, power and freedom of expression. When children…
Listen with curiosity not judgment. Avoid communication blocks such as unwanted advice, commanding, placating,and interrogating. Respond to an upset child with empathetic tentative observations. Know your child and have realistic expectations. Emanate warmth and gratitude. Focus on the positive rather than areas that need improvement. Consciously choose beliefs that build connection so you gain greater…
by Madeline Levine, Ph.D. Remembering What Really Matters March 31, 2015 I was asked to write this blog on “grit.” A concept I mostly endorse and a word that simply annoys me. Of course hard work, persistence and diligence are good character traits. Although educator and author Alfie Kohn certainly has a point when he…
I learned from Patty Wipfler, who created Hand in Hand Parenting the invaluable skill of having an adult listening partner. In order to be able to listen to our children, we need a way to release our own feelings that get in the way of being present and meeting our kids’ needs. She has developed…
“Why did you hit your brother?” “Well, Mom, I’m feeling jealous that you spend so much time with him since he was born. I feel neglected and I resent you so I take out my hurt feelings on him. I’d be happier if you didn’t have him. Aren’t I enough?” Have you ever received a…
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.