My pre-teen daughter asked to have a new friend stay overnight and even though I didn’t know the girl or the parents I said, “Sure, the more the merrier.” Chelsey’s friend Sharon was very bright; her parents were progressive to say the least. She was funny and very clever; she … [Read more...] about House Rules Posted on the Refrigerator
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Self-Esteem In Children: What Is Our Role?
Most parents would never intentionally hurt their children, but unfortunately some do. Our self-esteem and what other people think of us are sometimes at the opposite ends of the scale. If I evaluate my worth, I take into account the volunteer work I do and how others value me … [Read more...] about Self-Esteem In Children: What Is Our Role?
Choices Give Kids Power
“When you take a parent’s old discipline tools away, you need to replace them with new tools.” I made that comment during a TV interview many years ago for a documentary about child abuse from a parent’s perspective. I never wanted to hit my children like my parents did but I … [Read more...] about Choices Give Kids Power
Ten Easy Ways to Be A Joyful Mom
1. Simplify.It is easy as a parent to put too much on your plate. If you want to enjoy being a mom, then it is time to cut back some. Let each child be involved in one or two activities, and no more. While it sounds fun to have music, dance, sports, clubs, etc. if you are … [Read more...] about Ten Easy Ways to Be A Joyful Mom
Anger Uses Time, Energy and Thought
Shopping for a vehicle when you are in a hurry is risky business. Driving 65 mph in a school zone is tempting fate. Pushing firefighters aside to run into a burning building is just plain folly. Then why would anyone discipline a child when upset, angry or in a hurry? “Anger … [Read more...] about Anger Uses Time, Energy and Thought
Parenting viewpoints from parents in the trenches, because parenting doesn’t come with a manual. In addition to