Children under the age of three do not understand “no” in the way many parents think they do. And, a full understanding of “no” doesn’t occur magically when the child turns three. It is a developmental process. “No” is an abstract concept that is in direct opposition to the developmental need of young children to […]
When do Kids “Know” the Meaning of “No”? Read More »
Creating a Positive Time Out area doesn’t have to be complicated. Before it is needed and when everyone feels calm, explain to your child that we all have times when we lose control of our behaviour, feel upset, or find ourselves in a bad mood. This does not mean that we are bad; it just
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“Where did we get the crazy idea that in order to make children do better, we have to make them feel worse?” Dr. Jane Nelsen How would you respond if your boss or a colleague reprimanded you by saying, “Go to your room and think about what you just did!”? Most of us would laugh and
Why Positive Time Out for Kids? Read More »
“My child refuses to cooperate.” “He/she is so strong willed and disobedient”. These are common concerns expressed by parents. Unfortunately, many parents escalate the problem because they feel they have to “win”. All too often, parents allow themselves to get drawn into power struggles and the more they try to force their will, the more the
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With the start of the new school year, comes the classic “morning rush”. How does everybody get out the door on time in the morning without leaving a wake of mess and emotional stress? Routine charts are one of the most effective parenting tools when it comes to any sort of daily routine. If you’re familiar
Back to School with Routine Charts Read More »
Rudolf Dreikurs taught the importance of being both kind and firm in our relations with children. Kindness is important in order to show respect for the child. Firmness is important in order to show respect for ourselves and for the needs of the situation. Authoritarian methods usually lack kindness. Permissive methods lack firmness. Kindness and
I Love You and the Answer is “No” Read More »
Parents often raise concerns about bedtime routines. You know the drill – one more drink, one more story, one more trip to the bathroom and the list goes on. There isn’t a child anywhere who doesn’t try to extend bedtime at least once in a while. But more serious bedtime problems may be a result
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It is tempting for busy parents to do all the household chores themselves, thinking it is quicker, easier and that at least the task will get done “properly”. But when parents take this attitude, they deprive their kids of opportunities to learn cooperation, responsibility and other important life skills such keeping commitments, planning ahead, following through,
Parents: Let Kids Help Read More »
This is a continuation from the previous blog post regarding suggestions for fostering healthy self esteem in children: 4. Never compare children to each other. Each child is a different, unique person and should be valued and belong just the way he or she is. 5. Spend special time with each child alone, reminding each
Fostering Self Esteem in Children (Con’t.) Read More »
Self-esteem – the collection of pictures children carry around of who they are and how they fit in—is formed early in life. Even though children make these decisions internally, parents have a tremendous influence on the unconscious decisions children form. The way parents communicate both with words and actions, help children form healthy or unhealthy
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Ruth Buffam
Certified Positive Discipline Educator & Trainer
Positive Discipline Solutions Canada