Don’t Expect Immediate Compliance “Mica get ready for bed,” Mom calls from the nest room. Mica’s attention stays glued to his helicopter Leggo set he is building. Seconds later, Mother, annoyed by his lack of movement, yells more firmly, “Did you hear what I said? I said. ‘Get ready for bed!’” It is important that we don’t expect our child to instantly respond to what we ask. Respect the fact that your children need a minute to finish what they are doing before they can move

Take Time to Hear Your Child’s/Teens Viewpoint I found when I was hurried, that I didn’t want to hear my child’s/teen’s point of view. I just wanted it done MY because it was the BEST way! (Or so I thought.) However, when I slowed down and actually listened to my child they often had a fresh, new perspective on things. Or there was a twist or spin on something that was enlightening. The outcome of the situation was usually better because I took my time to listen and they felt

Part IV Yay! You have made it to the fourth part of a series in setting healthy and effective boundaries. These steps work well for any relationship however we will be concentrating on the toddler years. To read Part One through Three, click here. Feeling guilty about our parenting practice is pretty normal. We feel devastated when we make our child feel small and powerless. We tend to use fear-based practices when we feel pressured to react immediately. Our brains are wired

Part III Congratulations! You have made it to the third part of a series in setting healthy and effective boundaries. These steps work well for any relationship however we will be concentrating on the toddler years. To read Part One and Two, click here. Remember, your child is looking for and wants limits (although It may not feel like it). They feel secure when there is a strong, respectful leadership. The more clear and concise you are about your limits, the less your chil