Are you and your teenager constantly fighting? While it's important for parents to put their foot down on important rules, your child also needs to be able to assert his growing independence and feel that it is acknowledged. This article can help you decide when to say no, and when to say, 'Okay.' … [Read more...] about How to find a healthy compromise with your rebellious teen
family communication
How to have more meaningful conversations with your husband
Do you feel like you and your husband are stuck in short, superficial conversations? 'How was work?' 'Fine.' 'Did you put gas in the car?' 'Yeah.' It can be frustrating and (frankly) mind-numbing. We want more emotional connection and bonding, and these monosyllabic exchanges can wear down a marriage. Here are some tips on how to have more meaningful conversations. … [Read more...] about How to have more meaningful conversations with your husband
How to talk to your tween about her first period
You've helped your daughter through her first steps, her first day at school, and all the important and sometimes scary milestones. It's just as important that you're there to talk to her about getting her period. Here are some tips on how you can take this big 'mother-daughter' moment to build your bond and allay any of her fears about the changes in her body. … [Read more...] about How to talk to your tween about her first period
Anger management techniques
Everyone gets angry sometimes. It's a normal feeling, and should be expressed in a healthy way (unless you want to become passive-aggressive, which wreaks even more havoc on relationships). But think of it this way. Healthy anger is like a torch that can help you see and learn things about yourself, or clarify what you want and need from other people. But unhealthy anger, … [Read more...] about Anger management techniques
What to do when your preschooler talks back
Children don't mean to be rude. They don't realize that some comments and behavior cross the line between being cute and funny, and being plain obnoxious. For example, they may have seen a cartoon character roll his eyes or shoot a witty comeback, and then tried to do that with you. Then they wonder why something that was perfectly okay on SpongeBob Square Pants has made Mommy … [Read more...] about What to do when your preschooler talks back