Struggling with your child's behavior? See the importance of understanding child development and behavior to help you stay calm and patient. I sometimes imagine what a day would look like if my kids behaved like adults. They'd share toys all the time, to start. They'd know better than to run with a plate full of crumbs and instead would place it slowly in the sink. Or they might understand it's the end of the day, and I don't have the mental energy to listen to endless stories. Of course, that isn't what happens—often, the opposite does. And I'd find myself feeling exasperated, … [Read more...]

It's easy to compare children and their milestones, achievements, or interests. But here's why we need to stop comparing kids to others. I jinxed myself, again. I was just beginning to think my toddler's tantrums didn't seem as terrible as in the past. And of course, he threw an all-out, can't-catch-my-breath tantrum in what should've been a fun birthday party. We had to listen to him cry the whole ride home—through traffic, of course—before he calmed down. All the while, I noticed how his cousin—the birthday boy—was laughing with family, sharing toys, and accepting gifts like a … [Read more...]

It can feel worrisome when you see your child not interested in things other kids seem to love. Here's what to do when your child doesn't like what other kids typically do. My family got together at my mom's house for a swimming party. "Perfect!" I thought. "This will be a great opportunity for the kiddo to splash around in the pool." With his swim shorts and sunscreen packed and ready, we headed to my mom's. Except when we arrived, he took one look at the pool and belted, "No—don't want to swim!" I wasn't too surprised. He had been fighting a few of his baths, crying if even a few … [Read more...]

Giving kids more control can nurture a love of learning and responsibility. Learn how to encourage autonomy in children with these tips. Want to know the one thing we need to stop doing if we want to encourage our children's love of learning? We all do it, hidden even with the best of intentions. Some of the most common ways it happens are when we: Bribe them to do something with an incentive. Threaten to confiscate a treasured item if they don't obey. Hover over their actions to make sure they do it right. Judge their emotions, behaviors, and even personalities. Give … [Read more...]