Parenting: The Challenge

I came across an interesting blog post where this grandmother talks about being at a play area with her grandson. Rules of proper behavior while playing were posted all over the area and she noticed that two little girls were not following them. She made an interesting point about how letting kids bend the rules or not follow them when they are young can lead to issues later on when they become teenagers. If they didn't have to follow the rules when they were young, why would they think they should when they are in their teens? Check out her parenting post to read more.

More about: Following the Rules

One of the best activities to do as a family is game night. It's great to learn and have fun with your kids and teach them that everyone can win or lose and that it's ok. There are so many games on the market now that there's bound to be something that everyone can enjoy. It's a great way to connect, have some fun and learn something new. Try making it a weekly thing or letting your kids invite friends over to play, it's a great alternative to video games and TV.

More about: Family Game Nights

I am a bit shocked to read about parents that want to do this. It makes it sound like our kids are in danger wherever they go or that they can't be trusted so you need to know where they are at all times. Sure there are dangers in the world but being paranoid doesn't do any good for you or for them in feeling confident in this world. You can prepare them for certain bad things in life, like bad weather, standing up for themselves if they feel threatened etc. There are some things you just can't control and kids need to learn to take care of themselves and use tools that they've learned from you to keep themselves ...

More about: Should You GPS Track Your Children?

Toddlers take up so much of your time, with the feeding, changing, teaching, and playing it can be hard to get things done like house cleaning or work. Make the most of their nap time in order to achieve these chores. You will also want to take this tim for some relaxation for yourself as well which is important so you can re-energize for when your toddler is up! If your child no longer takes naps you can enforce "quiet time" have them stay in their room or somewhere where they cane play quietly with books and toys, letting them know that they will need to occupy their time alone for a little while. It's important for children to learn ...

More about: How to Get Things Done with a Toddler

Sometimes moving your child into their own bed can be a challenge. Many parents find themselves dealing with their child climbing out of the crib, or their children are becoming potty trained and a bed is necessary. Having a mattress on the floor is perfectly acceptable and probably the most cost effective. It may take some time before they really get that they need to sleep in bed and not come out of their room repeatedly. Parents should check the room for anything that their child might be able to get into or hurt themselves with to be sure it's safe when the time for sleeping in a bed comes. This is a big step for your toddler and reinforces ...

More about: Transitioning Your Toddler to a “Big Kid” Bed

It can be tough to get all the house chores done where you're juggling children at the same time. It doesn't have to be a complete nightmare. First letting go of perfection will be a huge help. if you like things to be just so, no one else will want to help you, you'll have to do it all. let your children help you with the chores and be patient and forgiving of their work. They may even find it fun. You're also teaching them a good work ethic that they will use as adults. Some task may have to be done by an adult and they may need to wait for your attention which is fine. They need to ...

More about: Balancing Parenting and Housework

Just hearing "sexual behavior" is enough to freak out many parents. From ages 2-6 there are some very normal and common behaviors that can be displayed by your young one. Touching their genitals in private or public, showing their genitals, standing or sitting close to someone or trying to see peers or adults naked is very normal. Most of the time it is just a phase that they will grow out of and not a cause for concern. The things to watch out for that are not appropriate are sexual behaviors when the children are four or more years apart and sexual behavior that causes physical or emotional pain. Be sure to talk with your children about their behaviors and ...

More about: Is Sexual Behavior Normal in Young Children?

It's possible for families to avoid chaos during an evening out to eat but following a few guidelines. Schedule the outing around your child's own schedule. It's not advised to go if they've missed a nap or it's close to nap time. Consider the type of environment you'll be in, is it noisy? Is it kid-friendly? Prepare them before getting to the location, that they will need to stay seated at the table during the meal. Include them into the conversation at the table. Bring a bag of things for them to do in case they get bored, like washable markers, small books, stickers and some snacks in case they don't like the food being served. Also acknowledge their good ...

More about: Dining Out With the Kids

Reading shouldn't be a chore and can really jump start imaginations, educate and entertain. Try and set aside some time every day for reading whether it's with them or having them turn of the TV and videos games to make time for it. If they get a good daily dose of reading it can keep them in "practice". Make trips to the library where they can pick out their own books. You may even keep a reading list yourself  of books you think they will enjoy. Ask your kids questions about what they are reading and have them read aloud to you. Reading can become a life long interest that can serve them well in their lives.

More about: Make Reading Fun for Your Kids

Teaching kids even at the preschool age to help around the house is important. As they grow up they need to learn these skills that promote responsibility. With very small children have them pick up their toys, bring their plate to the kitchen after eating or have them help you unload laundry from the machine. Grade school children can help with putting groceries away, clearing the table, and folding laundry and putting it away. Older kids and teens can do dishes, yard work, vacuuming and taking out trash. These chores give them a sense of being part of the family, earning their keep and teaches them skills to take care of themselves when they leave the home.

More about: Teach Your Kids to Help Out