Monthly Archives: July 2012

The word “abuse” comes from the root words for “misuse.”  Many parents ask me what exactly is verbal abuse.  Parents don’t have to be quiet and “nicey-nicey” all the time.  Healthy family members can get angry and express anger at … Continue reading →

Discipline is the control that comes from parental guidance and leadership that allows the child to develop optimal self-control.  Authoritarian parenting often results in either rebellion or lack of self-confidence.  Passive parenting often results in children who lack internal structure. … Continue reading →

If you give yourself permission to lose control because you are angry, you teach your children that they can lose control when they are angry. Key idea:  Your children learn from your behavior whether you want them to or not.

Inevitably, we will need to have difficult conversations with our children.  Truth is the best policy.  Telling the truth encourages them to tell us the truth, and encourages them to trust you! Some examples: “Grampa was very, very sick.  The … Continue reading →

Every child can benefit from the influence of a good father, or good father-figure. Children who have a father or father-figure who pays attention to them have a stronger belief in their own ability to control and determine their own … Continue reading →

Consider the Antecedents to a misbehavior.  Did the child sleep less last night?  Did you try to run one more errand after picking up a tired child from daycare?  Did the playdate last too long?  Many misbehaviors are preventable! Consider … Continue reading →