PARENTING ADVICE
Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2011 3:54 pmAbout Sibling Rivalry
The way that parents resolve problems and disagreements sets a strong example for kids. So if you and your spouse work through conflicts in a way that's respectful, productive, and not aggressive, you increase the chances that your children will adopt those tactics when they run into problems with one another. If your kids see you routinely shout, slam doors, and loudly argue when you have problems, they're likely to pick up those bad habits themselves.
Potty training
You should choose a potty chair once your child has shown that he is ready to begin toilet training. You can have him decorate it with stickers and sit on it with his clothes on to watch TV, etc. to help him get used to it.
Thumb sucking
When you notice your child's thumb in his mouth, try to distract him. Engage him in an activity that requires he use both hands. Be especially prepared before nap and bedtime. Have him hold the book you are reading or hug a stuffed animal with each arm.
Whining
Try not to take your daughter's whining personally if you can help it. Your negative reaction may only reinforce her behavior. If you can ignore it, she'll most likely give up the whining, but she'll find other ways to drive you crazy. She's just learning to push your buttons.
When you find yourself getting very frustrated, take a deep breath and step out of the room for a few minutes to calm yourself down (after making sure, of course, that your child is safely in her crib or playpen). Remind yourself that your daughter is going through a phase, and that it will pass.
Step-parenting
Define your expectations for the meeting, and lower your goals. It is not going to be love-at-first-sight, and it shouldn't be. Think of it in biological terms. You are encroaching on another animal's territory. Be polite and wary. This meeting is not about love or fun; it's about getting through it alive so you can live to see meeting
Picky eating
Young children tend to eat only when they're hungry. If your child isn't hungry, don't force a meal or snack. Likewise, don't bribe or force your child to clean his or her plate. This may only ignite — or reinforce — a power struggle over food
The way that parents resolve problems and disagreements sets a strong example for kids. So if you and your spouse work through conflicts in a way that's respectful, productive, and not aggressive, you increase the chances that your children will adopt those tactics when they run into problems with one another. If your kids see you routinely shout, slam doors, and loudly argue when you have problems, they're likely to pick up those bad habits themselves.
Potty training
You should choose a potty chair once your child has shown that he is ready to begin toilet training. You can have him decorate it with stickers and sit on it with his clothes on to watch TV, etc. to help him get used to it.
Thumb sucking
When you notice your child's thumb in his mouth, try to distract him. Engage him in an activity that requires he use both hands. Be especially prepared before nap and bedtime. Have him hold the book you are reading or hug a stuffed animal with each arm.
Whining
Try not to take your daughter's whining personally if you can help it. Your negative reaction may only reinforce her behavior. If you can ignore it, she'll most likely give up the whining, but she'll find other ways to drive you crazy. She's just learning to push your buttons.
When you find yourself getting very frustrated, take a deep breath and step out of the room for a few minutes to calm yourself down (after making sure, of course, that your child is safely in her crib or playpen). Remind yourself that your daughter is going through a phase, and that it will pass.
Step-parenting
Define your expectations for the meeting, and lower your goals. It is not going to be love-at-first-sight, and it shouldn't be. Think of it in biological terms. You are encroaching on another animal's territory. Be polite and wary. This meeting is not about love or fun; it's about getting through it alive so you can live to see meeting
Picky eating
Young children tend to eat only when they're hungry. If your child isn't hungry, don't force a meal or snack. Likewise, don't bribe or force your child to clean his or her plate. This may only ignite — or reinforce — a power struggle over food