In my earlier article, I showed how often parents use communication blocks without even realizing it. A communication block is a remark or response to your kid’s statement that ends up feeling hurtful to them. Often our thoughts are just, I’m just trying to help, and instead our kids get mad at us. I suggest…
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At Mid-Peninsula High School, well meaning parents discovered that words they thought were helpful were actually blocking communication. Their words had underlying hurtful messages. Responding with truly empathetic comments when your teen is struggling is quite challenging. Here are some common ways parents respond to teenagers that actually shuts down communication. Learn why well meaning…
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Parents at Mid-Peninsula High School in Menlo Park, CA gathered tonight to learn how to communicate so teens will actually listen to them. As their speaker, i focused on my 3 Step Quick Coaching Process.: Step 1: Stop Blocking Communication Step 2: Listen Openly Step 3: Discuss Ideas The first key point from Step 1…
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Around 40 parents came tonight to the Redwood City, CA Boys and Girls club. This was amazing considering this is Giants country and this was game 1 against the Detroit Tigers. Our focus was on how to discipline rather than punish their children. Many were Spanish speakers and listened through headset translations.Whether English or Spanish…
DetailsI received some great insights from my question why is there a resistance to parent education? One idea is that people are uncomfortable with change. It is easier to stay the same even if the situation makes everyone unhappy. The unwillingness to change seems to be a major barrier to receiving parent education. Another concept…
DetailsIf you want to get into a hot debate, then talk about religion, politics or parenting. There is a tremendous amount of emotions connected to parenting. Most parents feel that they should know how to parent automatically and have control over how their children behave. This belief in control over them can flow into a…
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During a divorce, it is common for parent education to be recommended or required. I believe in dads and am dedicated to teach them how to bring out their best dad qualities. Dads want their time with their kids to be harmonious and cooperative. The question is, what parenting approach builds a cooperative environment. I…
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In my work as a private parenting instructor, I have had wives bring in their husbands asking me to teach them a more gentle way of parenting. Often the complaint is that the husband is too critical with the children. One wife complained that her husband threatened their young daughter that she “wouldn’t live past…
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Last Wednesday, October 10, 2012, I spoke at the East Menlo Park Boys and Girls Club on the San Francisco Peninsula. My topic was Winning Kids Over without Punishments or Rewards. Here is a picture of parents discussing concepts together so the new information is truly learned. Here are a few points from my talk.…
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This past Thursday, October 11, 2012 I spoke at Stanford University on Enhancing Emotional Intelligence in the Family. This was my 11th talk sponsored by Stanford’s Work/Life Program. I based my talk on Daniel Goleman’s 4 areas of Emotional Intelligence. •EMOTIONAL SELF-AWARENESS •MANAGING EMOTIONS •EMPATHY – READING EMOTIONS •HANDLING RELATIONSHIPS . My focus was on…
DetailsTerms 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.