Do you have a box-checker who speeds through tasks just to get them done? Here's how to teach your child the value of a job well done. Is your child a "box-checker"? She wants to finish the job you ask her to do, regardless of whether she did the task well or not. A quick smiley face for an art project? Done. Tossed the books onto the shelf? Cleaned. From homework to dressing herself, she's eager to finish—and finish quickly—regardless of quality. As much as you appreciate the speediness, you also don't want to focus on ticking off the boxes and crossing off to-dos. Instead, you … [Read more...]

While confidence is important, competence is a better trait to nurture. Learn the do's and don'ts of encouraging competence in children. We hear tons of advice about how to instill self-confidence in our kids. We see confidence as a way for them to believe in themselves, erase any self-doubt, and rebuff peer rejection. These are all great reasons to promote confidence, but I'm learning there's something even more important. A trait that doesn't get much recognition but paints a more realistic picture of their capabilities: Competence. What's the difference between confidence and … [Read more...]

Don't feel the need to entertain your kids when they're bored. See why boredom is good for your child and why it's actually essential. We hear it a million times: "I'm bored." And when we do, we're compelled to engage with our kids. It doesn't matter whether we work outside the home (I hardly see them enough!), or stay at home (Isn't this why I left work to begin with?). Somehow, your child will make it known that she has nothing to do. The worst part? She expects you to fix her dilemma. Despite her many toys and options, she'll continue to whine until you offer a solution to her … [Read more...]

Are you overwhelmed with helping children learn mathematics? Discover effective ways to create a math rich environment at home. Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, which means I will earn a commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase. Look through my home and you'll find evidence of the many ways I try to encourage my kids to keep learning. You'll see shelves of children's books, an alphabet rug in their bedroom, and artwork proudly displayed on the wall. Reading has also become such an ingrained part of our day, especially with our bedtime routine. So … [Read more...]