November - 2016

QUICK TIP: Use Time Limits

Does your child struggle with transitions? Is that struggle worse when transitioning away from a fun activity? Prepare your child for the transition by setting time limits. Giving both a five and one minute reminder gives your child the chance to finish what he or she is doing. Preparing for the transition in advance also removes that surprise element that can trigger unpleasant behaviors. Example: “Time to go home” versus “We have five minutes left at the park…. We have one

QUICK TIP: Holiday Edition

Holidays can be tough. Disrupted routines + high expectations = stress for the whole family. Your children may be unable to verbally express themselves to you or to recognize their limitations. But they can (and probably will) communicate with their behavior- irritability, testing limits, sleep disturbance, the list goes on. So how can you enjoy all the holiday season has to offer, while keeping stress levels to a minimum? Let it go! It is ok if your holidays don't perfect

QUICK TIP: Connect First

Do you ever feel like your child just isn’t hearing you? When you ask how school was, when you tell him or her to come to the dinner table, the list goes on. It is difficult for children to take in requests when they are distracted or feeling disconnected. Help your child to hear you by connecting first. Application: Before asking something of your child get down on his or her level, make eye contact, or place a gentle hand on his or her shoulder. Questions or Thoughts? Let m

QUICK TIP: Assign a Task

We all have responsibilities. Begin nurturing cooperation in your child by assigning him or her with a special job. Children gain a sense of pride by being able to contribute to the household. Application: Choose an age-appropriate chore that your child will be responsible for.Remember, this is a process! Be realistic in your expectations and don't overload your child with too much too soon. {Here is an article with a list of ideas broken down by age} Questions or Thoughts? L

Promoting Understanding & Acceptance

At a time when we've seen great polarization in our country, I wanted to share some thoughts about humanity and benevolence. Now is a time for unity. We as parents have the amazing and powerful opportunity to shape the next generation. We can raise children who are caring, compassionate, kind, accepting, and respectful. We can show our children how to creatively and collaboratively come together to solve problems. Start now! Show your children through your own interactions wi

QUICK TIP: Give Information

When your child is doing something you think he or she should not, it is common to say something along the lines of "no," "stop," or "don't." However, it is very difficult for children to behave as you expect if they don't understand why. So why not take advantage of the opportunity for a teachable moment and give your child the information he or she needs? Doing so conveys the message that you trust your child to make the right decisions. Example: "Don't leave that towel on

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