So honored to be invited to the Amazon TV studio to share the importance of Conscious Parenting for busy executives whose workplace is impacted by their Homelife! Explored simple ways to eliminate the 3R’s (retaliation, rebellion, and resistance) that impact harmony and ease at home and at work! As well as the all-important “self-started behavioral change” which is a home run for everyone!!
Advertising Week is a live event full of vibrant culture, cutting-edge technology, and dynamic media of New York City. We explored a diverse range of carefully curated topics presented by over 500 speakers in more than 400 sessions. This extraordinary event was designed to unite us and propel us into the future.
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Back-to-School Anxiety is a common challenge many children face as they navigate significant transitions. It’s vital to address Back-to-School Anxiety head-on to ensure a smooth transition back to the classroom. Here are some valuable insights to assist both you and your child in Coping with Back to School Anxiety effectively:
1. Talk about Back-to-School Anxiety:
Back-to-School anxiety is normal during significant transitions, but open communication is key to easing these worries. Encourage your child to verbalize how they feel about going back to school, and tell them to get as specific as they can about what they’re afraid of. Are they worried about getting sick? Unsure what to expect when it comes to protocols and regulations?
Resist the urge to downplay your kid’s fears to protect them. Honesty is always the best policy. Assure them, however, that the teachers and administrators at their school are there to keep them safe.
2. Review Safety Regulations for Coping with Back-to-School Anxiety Together:
Did your kid’s school provide a list of safety regulations to follow? Review the list together and make sure you understand all the rules before school starts. Are there fire exits to review? Policies on drop-off or pick-up? If you can, print a map of the school and mark where you’ll meet your child after school.
3. Focus on Coping with Back to School Anxiety and Getting Bigger Than What’s Bugging Them:
First, acknowledge your child’s feelings and support them to get to the underlying unmet needs from which the feelings arise. If kids learn to orient toward all their feelings with interested curiosity, they are able to be with all the feelings in a healthy way!
Feelings arise, and they are telling us something about our needs either being met or unmet. With this vantage point, they learn to get bigger than what is bugging them and be aware of the feelings’ message rather than merged or identified with the feeling!
If they are interpreting feelings without this knowledge, they may have negative thoughts about feelings; however, feelings are not negative or positive, our interpretations of the feelings, on the other hand, can be positive or negative. If kids learn how to be grounded and with any feeling just as it is, without putting thoughts on it, then they truly are capable of experiencing feelings as guideposts.
4. Build a Routine for Coping with Back-to-School Anxiety:
Kids need consistency and predictability to feel secure—especially in difficult times. Establish a daily routine with your child that revolves around waking up, eating breakfast, going to school, doing homework, and so forth. Add time to debrief with your kid about their day at school and use that opportunity to check in to see how they’re adjusting.
5. Exhibit Peaceful Energy When Coping with Back to School Anxiety:
Kids are quick to mirror what their parents are feeling. So try your best to exhibit calmness and confidence when talking about going back to school.
If you need help navigating your own emotions through this transition, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for support.
Parents, we’ve lived through a couple of insane years; be patient with yourself and your children. We’re all in this together!
In the face of Back-to-School Anxiety, proactive communication, safety awareness, and emotional support can make all the difference. By following these effective coping tips, you can empower your child to thrive during this transition. Remember, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can ensure a smoother return to school for both you and your child.
Parents, we’ve weathered some extraordinary challenges, but by fostering resilience and offering unwavering support, we can navigate this journey successfully. Let’s embrace the upcoming school year with confidence and optimism—we’re all in this together!
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I have an 11-year-old granddaughter whose emotions are all over the place. Recently, she came home from school in an especially angry mood. I could tell something had happened, but when I asked her about it, she yelled that it was none of my business and slammed the door in my face.
Why is my granddaughter moody? What should I do? Should I give her space? I never know how to respond to her in situations like this.
Love,
Concerned Grams
Dear Concerned Grams,
First, I want to give you some good news: “bad” behavior at home means a child feels certain they’re loved no matter what.
Your granddaughter knows she can let her hair down and be difficult in front of you because you’ve created a safe place for her to fall apart. If she were to exhibit mood swings in children, this kind of behavior at school would be a symptom of a much bigger problem.
But Concerned Grams, I know this assurance doesn’t fix the problem you’re having.
What you and your granddaughter are experiencing is a classic communication breakdown. Neither of you has the necessary tools to reach the other, so you’re caught in a rut of ill-expressed feelings, hurt, and reasons a child has mood swings unmet needs.
Here’s the thing to keep in mind: children don’t have the sophisticated vocabulary or the maturity to identify their unmet needs. So 99% of the time, a child’s default reaction to emotional discomfort is to fall apart crying, screaming, kicking—or all three!
As the adults in the room, it’s our job to teach kids to self-regulate their emotions and effectively express what they need. Here’s what I recommend:
Depersonalize.
No matter how personal your granddaughter’s behavior may feel to you, know that it’s not about you. Her yelling and slamming doors are symptoms of her own pain, and nothing else. As Marshall Rosenberg once said, “Never listen to the words people say.” Your grandchild’s angry words will only trigger you. So when you feel emotions begin to rise, allow yourself self-empathy and self-compassion. Take a pause and step back. Once you’ve depersonalized, then you’ll be ready to re-engage.
Lead them out.
Once both you and your granddaughter have achieved a level of calmness, open a line of communication in a gentle, leading way. If you suspect the problem stems from friendships at school, for example, start with something like: “It seems like you’re feeling so distraught. You need to be seen as who you are, to be acknowledged and included, to have security in your relationships. Do you feel like one of your friends isn’t meeting these needs?” Then listen to her response—with compassion and without judgment.
Help them name their unmet needs.
Because children have trouble identifying their unmet needs, they blame external factors for how they feel.
If they’re excluded from a party invitation, for example, they feel so overwhelmed with negative emotions that the underlying unmet need (i.e. the need for belonging and friendship) goes unresolved.
Help your granddaughter express, “I feel…because my needs aren’t being met,” instead of letting factors she can’t control dictate how she feels inside.
Concerned Grams, when a kid is hurt, sad, or distressed, they have no idea how to reconnect in a meaningful way with those around them. But your concern is the first step to dealing with your child’s mood swings helping your granddaughter through whatever difficulties she’s experiencing.
Perhaps your child exhibits a hesitancy to participate fully in class activities or takes a little extra time to warm up to unfamiliar places or people.
Maybe they prefer independent activities like reading or drawing over engaging in group play with their peers. As parents and caregivers, it’s natural to wonder about our children’s self-confidence.
Developing self-assuredness is a crucial aspect of their journey to becoming well-adjusted and self-reliant adults. It’s important to note, however, that shyness doesn’t necessarily equate to insecurity or a lack of confidence.
Sometimes, a child might simply have a more introverted disposition, and that’s perfectly normal.
Embracing the Introverted Nature
In the thought-provoking book “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking,” Susan Cain explores how society often underestimates the value of introversion, even though over one-third of the population consists of introverts. My child is shy but that doesn’t mean they lack qualities that are highly admirable. Traits like empathetic listening, thoughtfulness, and self-reliance often flourish in introverts. Due to their preference for independent pursuits, introverts may exhibit a greater sense of self-direction and autonomy compared to their extroverted counterparts.
Supporting Your Child’s Journey
1. Fostering a Nurturing Environment
Many children’s activities tend to favor extroverted personalities. It’s vital for parents and caregivers to establish environments where my child is shy doesn’t translate to feeling overlooked. If group activities make your child uncomfortable, consider suggesting one-on-one or small group interactions as an alternative. Is it normal for kids to be really shy? Absolutely. Additionally, many introverts find solace in written expression. Encourage your child to start a journal where they can express themselves, or even connect them with a pen pal from a distant location. Thinking outside the box can help your introverted child thrive.
2. Honoring Their Authenticity
Encouraging your child to form friendships is essential, but it’s crucial to do so without trying to alter their natural tendencies. My daughter is extremely shy, and that’s perfectly okay. Allow your child the freedom to connect with others in ways that resonate with them. They might not be the most outspoken individual in their class, yet they could become a cherished companion to a neighbor or family friend. Empower them to make their own choices about who they open up to.
3. Amplifying Their Voice
Assertiveness doesn’t always manifest as being loud or talkative. Encourage your child to share their thoughts and feelings assertively, especially if they’re experiencing bullying or being overlooked. Remind them that they can always turn to you to discuss whatever is on their mind.
4. Celebrating the Gift of Introversion
In a world that sometimes elevates extroversion, it’s important to recognize the true worth of introversion. Share stories of successful introverts—writers, composers, artists, and even politicians. Remind your child that each individual possesses a unique set of gifts that contribute to society at large. Ways to help an introverted child are varied and valuable. Embrace introversion as a positive trait. When someone comments about your child being “shy,” educate them that quiet doesn’t necessarily mean insecure. How to Raise a Confident Introverted Child involves nurturing their strengths and individuality.
As you navigate the path of nurturing your child’s introverted nature, remember that embracing their authenticity and allowing them to flourish at their own pace is a gift that will benefit them throughout life.
Your child’s introversion is a beautiful trait that, when nurtured, can lead to a future filled with self-assuredness, creativity, and meaningful contributions to the world around them.
The Art of Parenting: Balancing Fear and Encouragement as Kids Journey to Adulthood Have you ever questioned if you’re treating your children fairly? The passage of time can be perplexing. The little ones you once held in your arms now stand before you, independent individuals. In the narrative of parenthood, the query arises: “Are You A Bad Parent For Treating Your Kids Differently?”
Recollections of childhood and growth are as poignant as a melody from “Fiddler on the Roof.” The musical’s lyrics echo the sentiments of parents everywhere:
“Is this the little girl I carried?Is this the little boy at play?I don’t remember growing older,When did they?”
The story of Tevye, a Jewish milkman with five daughters, encapsulates the profound transformations parenthood ushers in. As his eldest daughter walks down the aisle, Tevye and his wife croon the lyrics to a tender lullaby.
When did she grow to be a beauty?When did he grow to be so tall?Wasn’t it yesterday when they were small?
The journey of parenting is marked by moments of joy, anxiety, and contemplation. How do you feel as you witness your children’s evolution into adults? Do hope and excitement fill your heart, or do you find traces of fear and trepidation?
The Complex Dynamic: Parenting and Differential Treatment
Modern parents, faced with the inevitability of their children’s growth, often grapple with complex emotions. A study from the American Family Survey divulges that parents establish arbitrary milestones to grapple with the unease surrounding their children’s transition to adulthood, inadvertently delaying their independence.
When asked about appropriate ages for kids to engage in unsupervised activities like playing at a park or walking home alone, the response was commonly age 13. Curiously, these same parents indicated they would permit their children to pursue employment or go on dates within a mere two years of that age.
These figures point to a deeper sentiment—fear. What underlies parental hesitation? Let’s explore:
Fear of danger: The foremost concern for parents is the safety of their offspring, including “How to Help Children Manage Fears”. This apprehension is natural, yet confining children to an overly sheltered existence isn’t the solution.
Fear of the future: The unpredictability of life, as exemplified by the abrupt shifts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, triggers anxiety. While safeguarding children’s happiness is a priority, much remains beyond parental control.
Fear of separation or letting go: Observing children transition to adulthood can evoke powerful emotions of solitude and insignificance. Guiding them toward autonomy, including addressing the topic of “Fear of My Kids Growing Up,” is an essential parental duty.
Navigating the Path: Overcoming Apprehensions
Acknowledging parental apprehensions is the initial step to conquering them. Confronting these fears, not only for your sake but also for your children’s, is a rewarding endeavor.
Consider these five strategies:
Be a beacon of positivity: Children often mirror their parents’ emotions. Demonstrating confidence and assurance sets the tone for their own feelings of security as they navigate life’s uncertainties.
Offer encouragement: Adolescence can be a tumultuous period. Remember your own insecurities during those years. Providing unwavering support and conveying that emotions are transient can be immensely reassuring, addressing the query of “Why do parents treat their kids differently.”
Honesty matters: While encouragement is vital, it must be rooted in reality. Sugarcoating life’s challenges won’t serve your child’s development. Addressing the truth, even if uncomfortable, equips them with resilience.
Embrace communication: Open dialogue bridges gaps. Sharing your concerns and expectations establishes mutual understanding. Finding common ground—like agreeing on safety protocols—fosters trust.
Presence speaks volumes: Above all, let your children know they’re never alone. Your availability, willingness to listen, and empathy create a haven for them in a world of uncertainties.
As you ponder the ever-evolving journey of parenting, remember that nurturing your children’s growth doesn’t make you a bad parent. Embrace the transformation, and guide them with wisdom, care, and love. In the intricate dance of parenting, the paradox of nurturing is unveiled. The journey, rife with anticipation and unease, necessitates a delicate balance of guidance and release. The question—Are You A Bad Parent For Treating Your Kids Differently?—gains resonance. Our fears are not indictments of our capabilities but rather echoes of our deep-rooted love. By treading these paths—being mirrors of positivity, addressing why parents treat their kids differently, embracing the Fear of My Kids Growing Up, offering genuine encouragement, fostering honesty, nurturing communication, and embodying unwavering presence—we sculpt a roadmap to traverse the terrain of parenthood. Amidst these strategies, we unearth the remarkable truth that growing up is not solely for our children; it’s a journey we, as parents, embark upon too.
This familiar saying captures the essence of how children often resemble their parents, inheriting behaviors, patterns, and choices across generations. The concept is simple: children observe and replicate their parents’ actions, influenced by the examples set before them.
Contemplate this for a moment. Our children absorb essential life skills from us: how to crawl, walk, eat, sleep, communicate—and ultimately, how to engage with others and navigate life’s challenges.
The weight of setting a positive example or being a role model is substantial for any parent. This pressure becomes even more profound if your own childhood was marked by struggles or difficulties (a shared experience for many). Everyone encounters obstacles rooted in their early years, and whether consciously acknowledged or not, our upbringing undeniably shapes our approach to raising the next generation.
My own journey was unveiled on the TEDxGEM stage in France. I grew up with a caring yet traditionally-minded mother who believed that children should be seen but not heard. This upbringing led me to suppress my inner voice, training me to remain silent even in moments of exploitation.
Each of us carries a narrative, complete with its own scars. However, we are tasked with the responsibility to prevent negative cycles from perpetuating with our own children. Without careful consideration, the issues stemming from your own past might manifest in your interactions with your offspring.
Whether you’re a new parent striving to cultivate a nurturing environment for your baby’s growth or a seasoned caregiver witnessing echoes of your upbringing in your relationship with your adolescent, it’s pivotal to recognize three warning signals that suggest the need for change:
1. How to Let Go of Childhood Pain: Reflect on your own childhood. Were you blessed with a joyful upbringing, where you felt supported, understood, and acknowledged by your primary caregivers? Some adults who experienced early feelings of neglect may unconsciously project their own emotions onto their children. This can lead to extreme reactions like distancing or overprotectiveness. Ask yourself: Are your responses driven by your feelings or by theirs?
2. How to Release Childhood Baggage: Certain parents withhold privileges from their children, believing it’s a necessary lesson because they were denied those very privileges while growing up. A father might say, “You’ll work each summer instead of attending camp, as that’s how I was raised to be responsible.” Yet, “tough love” isn’t always the solution. Reflect on whether you truly needed that level of severity from your parents. What if they had provided more empathy and support instead?
3. Let go of emotional baggage: It’s only natural for parents to shield their children from repeating their own errors. However, parenting driven by the fear that your children might rebel can inadvertently convey a lack of trust or even label them as “bad” kids. An alternative, healthier approach is empowering self-guidance. Value your children’s opinions and viewpoints. Demonstrate that they can openly discuss anything with you, assuring them of your unconditional love.
Confronting your own childhood experiences is no simple feat, but it’s the sole means to crafting a brighter future. When we mend past wounds, we free our children (and ourselves) from generational cycles, establishing a foundation for healthier parent-child relationships. Regardless of where you stand in your parenting journey, you can initiate the process of releasing childhood baggage, paving the way for a fresh start for your children.
Feeling prepared to address your past and enhance your bond with your child? Reach out to me, and together, we’ll embark on this transformative journey.
Hello, Conscious Parents! Welcome to “Dear Katherine,” a Q&A with real-life parents/caregivers. If you’d like to submit a question of your own, email me at katherine@consciousparentingrevolution.com.
Dear Katherine,
Two young sisters, aged 8 and 11, seem to be in constant competition, and their parent, “Looking for Peace of Mind,” is concerned about how to handle competitive siblings and why kids are competitive with siblings. They contend over everything, from the size of the pie slices to finishing homework fastest and even who gets to take a shower first. “Looking for Peace of Mind” recognizes that sibling rivalry is a normal phenomenon, but she is eager to find ways to handle sibling rivalry and reduce competition between siblings. Can you offer some guidance on how to reduce competition between siblings and how to handle sibling rivalry?
— Seeking Solutions for Sibling Rivalry
Dear Seeking Solutions for Sibling Rivalry,
The challenge you’re facing is a familiar one for many parents. Sibling rivalry has been a part of family dynamics throughout history, and it remains prevalent today. While the competition your daughters engage in is not as dramatic as the biblical tale of Joseph and his brothers, the underlying reasons are similar—they both desire parental attention and recognition.
To reduce competition between your girls and handle their sibling rivalry, it’s crucial to act as a mediator, impartially listening to their perspectives and helping them communicate effectively. Avoid taking sides, as it can exacerbate the situation, leaving one child feeling misunderstood or unimportant. Instead, strive to interact with them on equal footing, demonstrating effective communication and modeling the behavior you wish to see in them.
As parents, showing equal love and support to our children is essential, though it may be challenging to balance interactions according to their unique personalities and needs. Each child is different, and acknowledging and celebrating their individuality can foster a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of favoritism.
Encourage your daughters to pursue their distinct interests and talents. By celebrating their uniqueness, you affirm their contributions to the family and instill confidence in their abilities.
When disagreements arise, allow them the space to calm down before facilitating a discussion. Encourage open and loving communication, helping them express their feelings and understand each other’s perspectives. Is one sister hurt because the other didn’t want to share a favorite toy? Does the younger one feel insecure when seeing her older sibling do things without supervision? Teaching your daughters loving and open communication will foster a better mutual understanding and reduce competition between them.
Amidst the busyness of life, create moments for bonding with your children. Even dedicating just 15 minutes to cuddling or reading a bedtime story will do wonders for your relationship with your children —and their relationship with each other.
Fostering a supportive and empathetic environment will enable your daughters to navigate their differences and build a stronger sibling relationship. With patience, understanding, and effective communication, you can reduce competition between siblings and handle sibling rivalry, bringing more peace to your home.
I hope these suggestions prove helpful in creating a more harmonious family atmosphere.
At Conscious Parenting Revolution, we are dedicated allies of the LGTBQIA2S+ community and committed to supporting parents through the journey of raising children. As parents, we understand that guiding our children through various changes can be a challenging task, particularly when it comes to transitions and transformations that we may not have personally experienced. Parenting during the teenage years can evoke a range of emotions— pride and worry, joy and frustration. This phase of life can be equally demanding for parents as it is for their children.
The parent-child relationship undergoes a fundamental shift as our children embark on the journey to young adulthood. Witnessing this transformation is rewarding, but it also requires us to adapt our parenting style. We need to transition from being mere managers to becoming trusted consultants.
The Transformation From Childhood to Youth
Many parents fear that they may lose their connection with their children during the challenging teenage years. Society often portrays teenagers as having difficult attitudes and wanting little to do with their parents, but this depiction fails to capture the whole story.
In reality, teenagers are going through a process known as individuation—a phase where they form their own independent identities. Although these changes can be normal, they may also be confusing, hurtful, and even a little scary for even the most understanding parent. Creating a safe space for our child’s individuation process becomes crucial for maintaining a happy and healthy parenting relationship.
How to Help Young Children Transition Into Young Adults
While it may seem like our teenagers are pushing us away, the truth is that they still need us during this tumultuous phase of their lives. They face high-stakes decisions daily, from navigating peer pressure and romantic relationships to choosing their paths after graduation.
During this time, they require someone they trust to guide them through these decisions, and that someone can be us. However, here’s the catch-22: the more we try to manage their obstacles or impose our decisions, the more our teenagers will distance themselves. They need to feel independent and autonomous, and failing to acknowledge this need can lead them astray.
Transition from Childhood to Adolescence
So, how should our behavior evolve to best support our teenagers? Here are a few suggestions:
The Changing Transition to Adulthood :Make your home a judgment-free zone. Our children absorb cues, often unnoticed by us. Have we unintentionally conveyed that we view failing a test as a sign of weakness? If so, our teenagers will be less likely to seek our help when facing academic challenges. Let’s be mindful of how we express our feelings and opinions, ensuring that we don’t discourage open conversations.
The Transformation From Childhood to Youth: Spend quality time together. Engage in simple activities like running errands or sharing meals. These moments create space for open communication between us and our children. The more available we are without them having to seek us out, the more opportunities they’ll have to open up to us.
How to Help Young Children Transition Into Young Adults: Respect boundaries. While it’s crucial to be available for our teenagers, it’s equally important not to take it personally when they are not interested in talking. Let’s respect their need for space by refraining from prying or forcing conversations. Sometimes, what they need most is peace and quiet, and honoring that can provide them with the support they require.
Transition from Childhood to Adolescence: Reinforce your support. We all need reminders that the people who love us are there for us. Teenagers are no exception. Every now and then, remind your child that you are a safe person they can turn to for conversations or guidance.
Supporting our children through the transition from childhood to adolescence involves creating an environment where they feel comfortable approaching us. Taking the initiative to adjust our own behavior will help build their trust in us as reliable confidantes.
The Changing Transition to Adulthood
Evolving our parenting role from managers to consultants requires letting go. It means granting our children more autonomy to be their authentic selves, even if it means relinquishing some of our control in the process.
This journey is no small feat, and wherever you are in this process, we applaud you. Together, let’s celebrate our children and provide them with the support they need as they navigate the changing transition to adulthood.
As a parenting expert, one of the most common concerns that I hear from parents is how to discipline their children when they don’t listen. It can be frustrating and overwhelming to feel like you’re losing control, especially when you’ve tried different methods to get your child to follow your instructions. However, it’s important to recognize that controlling our children’s behavior isn’t the answer. Instead, we need to approach discipline with consideration and understanding of our children’s needs and capacities and skills for managing their emotions and responses.
Have a solution-focused mindset: When approaching a meltdown, is there a specific time of day when your child is falling apart? Are they tired? Hungry? Need some closeness? you can begin to see positive changes in your child’s behavior when you support them to meet their needs and develop skills to regulate their emotions.
Address underlying issues: Sometimes, a child’s behavior is related to an underlying issue such as ADHD. If you suspect that your child may have ADHD, consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Identify the root cause of “disrespectful” behavior: It’s important to address the underlying causes: Is your child feeling neglected or ignored? Are they struggling with a difficult situation at school? By addressing the root cause of their behavior, you can help your child develop better problem-solving skills and improve their behavior. To keep your own feelings in balance avoid thinking judgmentally and stay curious.
Approach the situation calmly: Yelling and losing your temper will only undermine your child’s self-confidence and lead to further behavior issues. Take a deep breath, apply the oxygen mask to you first, and approach the situation calmly and assertively when you’re ready.
Be flexible with your approach: Be open to trying new methods and approaches to see what works best for your child. Guidance approach to discipline is about supporting your kids to be the masters of their emotions and for them to learn how to be present to the outer voices in their world and speak up assertively for any conflicts occuring inside them so that they can meet their needs too.
Remember, disciplining your child is not about controlling their behavior, but about finding a balance between their desires and your expectations. Healthy and positive ways to discipline your child include setting clear expectations, catching them doing it right and acknowledging, highlighting and verifying that, and modeling the behavior you want to see. By approaching discipline with consideration and understanding, you can create a more positive and close relationship with your child.
So, are you struggling with a child who doesn’t listen to you? It can be frustrating for any parent, but there are ways to discipline your child without resorting to harsh punishment. The first step is to identify what works and what doesn’t. Observe your child’s behavior and see if there is a particular time of day when they are more receptive to problem solving. The rule of thumb is to listen to their side when they are resistant to your directions. Listening to them doesn’t mean you agree with their perspective, but, ignoring their perspective and repeating your own is guaranteed not to work.
It’s also important to keep in mind that some children may have underlying issues, such as ADHD, or an irritation in their nervous systems from an allergy to gluten or red dye or sugar or dairy, inflammation too can make it difficult for them to focus, think clearly, and follow instructions. If you suspect that your child may have an underlying condition, seek the advice of a healthcare professional who can provide proper diagnosis and treatment. Getting a neuropsych evaluation is always helpful!
When your child is being “disrespectful” it’s important to identify the root cause of their behavior and address it directly. Are they feeling neglected or ignored? Are they struggling with a difficult situation at school? By addressing the underlying cause of their behavior, you can help your child develop better problem-solving skills and that gives rise to feeling better and will improve their overall behavior.
Losing your temper and yelling at your child may seem like the only way to get their attention, but this can damage their self-esteem and lead to more behavioral problems. Not to mention, it can result in you feeling yucky about you! Instead, be assertive about meeting your needs and approach the situation with a clear mind.
Remember that discipline is not a one-size-fits-all approach. What works for one child may not work for another, so be open to trying new approaches. Healthy and positive ways to discipline your child include setting clear expectations, providing acknowledgement, and modeling good behavior. Setting clear expectations helps your child understand what is expected of them and encourages them to meet those expectations. Acknowledgment can help build your child’s self-confidence as they learn to be more aware of their own traits and capacities. Modeling good behavior sets a positive example for your child to follow.
Disciplining a child who doesn’t listen requires a solution-focused approach. By observing what works, addressing underlying issues, and utilizing healthy and positive discipline methods, you can develop a positive relationship with your child and help them become confident and well-behaved individuals.
Love and blessings,
Katherine
P.S. Looking for more weekly guidance? Join me in my private Facebook group for tips every Tuesday!