Raising kids can be tough, especially if you’re going it alone. If you are a single parent, it can be helpful to take a break from your child once in a while. Ask family members or friends to pitch in while you go shopping, take a walk or spend a few hours enjoying a good book. You love your child, so if you take[…]
Q: I assume my child is working on her social studies reading assignment, but it turns out she’s just doodling and daydreaming. This happens whenever she has to read for homework. I end up frustrated, and she ends up in tears. What should we do? A: Long after children can sound out all the words on a page, they may[…]
Your child left his backpack on the bus—again. Or he forgot to turn in his homework—again. Chances are, he’s been stricken with a common childhood malady: carelessness. It’s important to help him overcome careless habits now before they turn into irresponsible behavior as he gets older. Here are some tips: • Make it easier for him to remember. Is his[…]
Your child may think she has a “good reason” for lying, but that doesn’t make it okay. If your child lies to you, here’s how to deal with the situation: • Figure out why she lies. If lying results in your giving her your undivided attention, that could be what your child is seeking. The solution may be to spend more one-on-one time together. • Let her[…]
When you speak with your child, how well do you actually communicate? To make sure you communicate effectively: • Speak your child’s language. Use words she understands. • Stay calm. Even if you’re angry, try not to yell at her. • Watch your body language. When it comes to communicating with your child, nonverbal cues can speak volumes.
Once upon a time, Mom and Dad had all the answers. But now, tell your middle schooler that the grass is green, and he’ll deny it. Ask whether he’s too hot or too cold, and he’ll whine at you for offering only two choices. Ah, adolescence. Your maturing child is beginning to look like an adult, but he’s not ready[…]
Today’s parents are not like the ones of just a few years ago. They are busier. The pressures they face are daunting. Most are working, sometimes at several jobs. Fewer families eat together or teach their children to accept the consequences of their behavior. Fewer attend school activities. More want the school to do it all. But[…]