Other Episodes
Fostering Creativity in Kids
We often think of creativity as being a personality trait rather than a skill that we can foster in…
Looking for a Preschool?
It's that time of year, when many parents are looking at preschools and try to make what is for some…
Fighting a lot?
Most spouses fight, but many do not know how to make-up in a way that repairs the relationship. Rona…
Gratitude for Lovers
Whether or not you are a romantic person, and whether or not you like Valentine's Day, here's my…
How Hectic Are Your Mornings?
Rona and I are frequently asked how parents and caregivers can make morning routines go more…
Is Yelling the New Spanking?
Most parents yell at their kids at one time or another, but as stress and exhaustion increase over…
Managing routines, sleep, and sugar intake so kids can thrive
The holidays are so fun, but many kids get really out of whack. How to manage moodiness and…
Comments
I can remember a similar event in a grocery store, with a kid who wanted MORE (and was overwhelmed by choices, so saw that any limits I applied were going to be arbitrary). I successfully rejected the premise of the tantrum, by calling the child’s attention to something that WAS in short supply: our time together. “I’m grateful we can be here together in this air conditioned store looking at ALL these choices. Since we don’t get to do this together very often, I wish we weren’t fighting. Wouldn’t you rather choose one treat in this aisle and talk with me about your choice? I like to hear about what you like.” I dunno if it would have worked a second time, but I remember it worked that day. (Mindfulness—“how did these cereals get here?”—and perspective-changing experiences—“she doesn’t have ANY cereal!”—are great, too, but sometimes you need a quick fix.)
epw | 1:11 pm, November 20, 2012 | Link
I love all of these ideas!
Christine Carter | 11:39 am, November 21, 2012 | Link