People Before Things

people before things.jpg

People Before Things

The text reads: Ask yourself whether your child could be getting the impression that material things matter more to the adults in their world than they do.

Even though this is a sometimes challenging value to uphold, being mindful of this can make a WORLD of difference in your relationship with the young folks in your life!!!

Understanding and Supporting Kids Through Tantrums and Meltdowns...

Understanding and Supporting Kids Through Tantrums and Meltdowns...

A couple of metaphors to help folks understand what's really going on when a child is melting down, which could help a person take a more effective approach so they can support their child AND stay as calm as possible under trying circumstances...

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PSA about "Tricky People" and Keeping Children Safe

PSA about "Tricky People" and Keeping Children Safe

…One of the greatest built-in tools we have to protect our children is the strong mutual connection we share with them. A gentle, responsive, respectful parenting model, put into practice from day #1, is the best hedge against the risks that would lead a child to be vulnerable to so-called “tricky people.”

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The Beautiful Truth About Lying

The Beautiful Truth About Lying

It's good to understand WHY kids lie.  Of course, they're not going to be able to tell you, but when you understand what may be behind the lying, it can alter your response to it, and that can make all the difference in the world!

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"What's the matter?"

"What's the matter?"

"So, there I am at the supermarket.  It's a BEAUTIFUL late summer/early autumn day.  Warm, sunny, dry, fragrant air...  I'm putting my groceries into the car and just enjoying everything, and I hear a shopping cart go by.  I glance up, and it's one of those carts with a toy car in the front, and the little driver is taking his role very seriously.  My heart goes pitter-patter as I enjoy his enjoyment."

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I am.

I am.

"What follows 'I am...'or 'you are...' or 'she/he is...' is a label.  Labels can be very problematic and can undermine connection and happiness for a few very important reasons."

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When you don't see eye to eye

When you don't see eye to eye

It happens!  You have one way of doing things and your co-parenting partner has a totally different way!  What do you do then???  Here are some things you can try that may reduce friction...

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That Screaming Parent in the Supermarket... What to Do?

That Screaming Parent in the Supermarket... What to Do?

I don't think there is one "right" way to handle a situation like this...I just want to offer this as a possible approach. Some folks would openly confront the parent, but I think that could potentially have a devastating backlash effect for the child later on.  Here's another possible way...

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