doug@parenting-tips.net

Anger is the best short-term method of gaining control within the home, but the technique with the least long term success. Do not burn relational bridges for momentary control. Download all the parenting tips.

When children are the center of attention they look at the world in terms of what they can get instead of what they can give. Download all the parenting tips.

The brain is not fully developed until age 25. Expect some bizarre thinking and acting out as the brain builds connections that only time and experience can strengthen. Download all the parenting tips.

If you are losing perspective, disclose your struggle with a trusted friend. Listen to more voices than your own when making an evaluation of how to move forward with your teen. Download all the parenting tips.

The loss of a spouse or suddenly becoming a single parent can push parents to hold on to their children more closely. The lack of emotional space will hinder their growth. Download all the parenting tips.

Check your desire for power, dominance, and superiority. We often take our insecurities from work home with us and express disappointment with our kids as a way to feel morally superior to someone. Download all the parenting tips.

Anger is not the problem in most relationships. It is the inability to use anger as a healthy warning signal that something in your relationship needs work. Figure it out and then do the work. Download all the parenting tips.

Get down to your child’s physical level when talking to them. Face to face is critical. Download all the parenting tips.

Progress is happening even when I can’t see it. Embrace the absolute necessity for your child to make mistakes in order to grow. Every unwise choice is an opportunity, not a failure. It may be one more step toward your child growing tired of his current lifestyle. Download all the parenting tips.

Even little children are big enough to give forgiveness when you make a mistake so be sure to ask them for it when needed. Download all the parenting tips.