Unparenting Blog

Your children don’t listen: How to say “no” so they hear it

You tell them “No!” a hundred times a day. No, don’t touch that, don’t go there, don’t put that in your mouth … And sometimes you feel like they don’t understand you at all and all your efforts are wasted? Or maybe they understand all too well and they’re just pushing your buttons. What do you think? Maybe so. Especially if you’re using one of the four ways parents say “no” that don’t work. And yet that doesn’t mean it’s always wrong to tell your child “no”. Hardly! Come and see what we mean.

When Mommy messes up: I’m stressed and irritable. What can I do?

When Mommy messes up: I want to be there for my child, but I’m stressed and irritable. What can I do?

You want to be a patient, loving mom. You give it your level best every day. But sometimes it just doesn’t work. Some days you just can’t do it: spend all day cuddling, explain patiently, and be understanding. Get up five times a night to give your little one a drink, tuck them in, or chase away a bad dream. Instead, you’re stressed out, your little one gets on your last nerve, and you snap at them. Right? Does that ever happen to you? If so, here’s some first aid to help you out. For all the stressed-out moms (and dads!) out there who are losing their cool and hating themselves for it.

The Unmanageable Child: How can you get through to them? Make sure not to miss their signals.

The kind of child that gets called a brat or troublemaker in anger. If you’ve got one of those at home or in your classroom and you’re not sure where to turn, you might find some inspiration in the story of Timmy, a gifted ADHD student. His teacher found four things helpful in working with him. You’ll find them in the article, but it all started with a heart. A heart that longed to understand.

Seven situations when children make trouble: Do you want them to act the way they should?

Seven situations when children make trouble: Do you want them to act the way they should?

Here’s a few ordinary real-life scenarios with us children. You’re probably familiar with them, Mom, Dad. But have you seen them from the other side? We’ve been spying on you, you know. Outside, at the playground, in the car ... We kids always have our eyes on you. We try to act the right way. Just like you. See for yourself. If you would like our behavior to change, start here.