Over the past few weeks I have heard parents say “I don’t know where he learned to say that” or “I don’t know how she learned to do that.” Children pick up on way more than we think, especially young children. Young children look to adults, especially parents-often because that is who they are around […]
Parenting
Thank you
When I was a kid, my mom would remind me to say “Thank you” when someone gave me a gift or did something for me. Now, as a mother, I remind my own kids to say “Thank you” for those same reasons. For some people it is simple and easy to show gratitude and appreciation, […]
A New Timeout
Is time-out in your parenting toolbox? For most parents, this discipline strategy involves putting your child in a certain place for approximately one minute per year of the child’s age. A parent controls the event and the child is mostly passive. Because few humans, including children, can sit for long periods, three minutes is an eon to […]
Are You a Helicopter Parent?
You’ve likely heard of “helicopter parenting”, a term used to describe the tendency of modern parents to hover over their children, crossing the line from being supportive and responsible into the territory of being imposing. “Imposing on my own child?” you might ask. Yes, if you’re a helicopter parent. Research suggests that heavy-handed parental involvement […]
Why won’t my Teenager just Listen?!
You have a lifetime of experience and insight, but your teen is less than eager to hear your advice. You know exactly how she can solve the problem she’s having, but in her eyes, you couldn’t possibly know what’s best. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. As a parent, it can be frustrating […]
Parents, Models in Healthy Living
While there are numerous theories of child development that are widely accepted, most acknowledge one basic truth: Children learn and develop in part because of what they observe others doing – particularly adults, and especially their parents or caretakers. This means that as a parent, you’re teaching your child even when you don’t think you’re […]