Everyone knows that when a child digs his heels in it is hard to get them to do what you want them to do without a battle.  I have found a techinique that USUALLY works.  First wait for the situation to calm down.  The parent needs to take a deep breath and the child needs to regain self-control and then they will be a little more reasonable.  The parent then states first this then this.  Example:  First you pick up your toys and then you can go watch T.V.  It is as simple as that.  You are giving the child the control he wants with options.  This helps the child feel like he has some power but ultimately you are the one in control.  This helps with your child's self-esteem.  This is not spoiling a child but teaching your child self-control and the ability to reason.  Remember take a deep breath and good luck.  Until next time...

A very important step for children is taking care of their own needs.  As parents we tend to want to help them with everything but part of the process of growing up is becoming independent.  The first stage is for the child to watch or observe us doing something like eating, washing our hands, dressing, you get the idea.  After watching they begin to try things on their own.  At first they might forget some of the steps but with gentle reminders they will begin to do things on their own.  After accomplishing these self-care activities they begins to realize that they can use differnt items to help with their activity; like a broom to sweep the floor or scissors to cut things out.  The last step is for the child to try to help someone else do an acitivity.  This is great for their self-confidence and their independence. This also teaches them that helping others is a good thing and that there are others in the world around them. I know as a parent that we want our child to succeed so let's give them the tools and confidence to get there.  Ubtil next time...

I hope everyone enjoyed the long Labor Day weekend. I did!!  That is why I didn't post last week.  Labor Day!!  How appropriate.  That is how we all start our life of parenting.  Once you are a parent a little piece of your heart walks around outside of yourself.  Every child should have a parent who thinks they are the most precious thing that has ever walked on this earth but unfortunately that is not true for every child.  A parent has the opportunity to help create a self-sufficent loving human being.  Spend time with your children, talk to them, play with them and enjoy them.  Build a good relationship while they are young and they will always want to have a relationship with you.  Enjoy parenting don't look at it as a chore.  You only get one chance so don't mess it up.  Until next time...