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2011-12-30 15:04:23 (6 comments, 0 reshares, 10 +1s)

DO YOU LIKE TO SLEEP IN A LITTLE ON THE WEEKENDS?

If they’re still too young to be out of bed before you’re up:

• You can put a clock radio on in their room and tell them that when the music comes on, they can get up and come to get you.
• Make up a small basket of wake-up toys. Put together things that can keep your child occupied for about an hour. A surprise in the basket, like a new box of crayons is fun. Check your local dollar stores so you can put in a little something new among the other toys each week. Try to rotate different toys each week so it doesn’t get old! When you go to bed at night, just place the basket on the bed so the surprise is there in the morning. That, along with the waiting for the alarm clock music may buy you an extra hour!

If your child is old enough to get out of bed without you:

• Make it easy for your child tofix himself... more »

2011-12-28 18:17:48 (1 comments, 0 reshares, 6 +1s)

TIP: If you’re having trouble getting your child to brush their teeth, make up a funny story to tell them while they’re brushing. You child will be so excited to brush!

2011-12-27 17:12:55 (1 comments, 1 reshares, 3 +1s)

2011-12-19 17:53:18 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 3 +1s)

I've been asked to co host a radio show this week and will be talking about the above topic. All shows are recorded to hear at any time or you can also call in with questions or comments during the show. Hope you can join us!

2011-12-19 17:52:34 (1 comments, 0 reshares, 4 +1s)

I just had an article published in "Sweeten Your Words" magazine. The title is "Your Child's Honesty Can Really Sound "Rude" During the Holidays"

2011-12-19 17:52:10 (1 comments, 2 reshares, 10 +1s)

WATCH WHERE YOU KEEP YOUR MARKERS!

2011-12-04 19:05:36 (4 comments, 16 reshares, 15 +1s)

2011-12-04 18:05:56 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 4 +1s)

PARENT QUESTION: Hello Alison! Do you have any tips for kids who complaint everyday about going to school. My daughter (age 8) never used to be like that, but lately she has the worst attitude about going to school, and the mornings are the worst. She doesn't complain about anyone bothering her. Her teacher seems very nice. I just don't understand why she's acting this way, she just keeps saying she doesn't want to go to school. Is it just her being lazy? Any advice will help! Thanks a lot!!

ANSWER: Kids who were always happy going to school and suddenly seem to change always do cause a great deal of concern for their parents. Sometimes asking kids directly about anyone is being mean to them, won’t give you a true answer. Kids will frequently say “no”, because they don’t want more questioning from parents. So parents then are still unsure if that is the truth!
more »

2011-12-04 18:05:39 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 4 +1s)

TIP: Provide lots of sensory experiences for your baby and child (touching, seeing, hearing smelling and tasting.) These experiences build the connections that build your child’s brain! When your child has different experiences, and they are repeated over and over, those brain connections become stronger! Those connections shape the way your baby feels, thinks, behaves and learns!

2011-12-02 17:32:33 (2 comments, 0 reshares, 4 +1s)

TIP: You can create a “scavenger hunt” for so many different things. It can keep your kids’ minds occupied at times when you know there could be difficult moments. For example, make up a list of different things that your child may see in a restaurant (before you go in). When they are getting extra hungry and the food still hasn’t come, pull out the list! Let them look around and try to find some of the things (you don’t have to walk all over) that you can possibly see from your table.

2011-12-02 17:32:14 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 3 +1s)

TIP: Try to PREVENT PROBLEMS! Avoid situations that will cause trouble such as trying to run one more errand when it’s already past lunch time!

2011-12-01 15:20:31 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 1 +1s)

ARE YOU AND YOUR TODDLER HAVING DRESSING TROUBLES?

Even if you had positive dressing memories when your child was younger, there comes an age when they just can’t sit still! If you keep your child busy and keep things “upbeat” it won’t take as long as having your child take off and run around the house!

Here are a few things to try:
• Get at eye level with your child! If you dress sitting on the bed, at a changing table, or the floor, eye level just promotes more cooperation!
• When you look at your child, talk or sing! You can play the “dressing game”: “Put your right foot in, put your left foot in and shake them all about!”
• Keep special toys that are interesting to your child in the room when you get dressed. Don’t let them play with them at other times, because they will just lose interest in them. Sometimes a calculator at a dollar storeis fun because they lov... more »

2011-11-29 15:26:13 (1 comments, 1 reshares, 8 +1s)

2011-11-29 15:04:48 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 0 +1s)

CONSEQUENCES CAN BE CHOICES

As your child is getting a little older, they can make the choice to control their behavior. It’s really an important part of development when a child can make the choice herself. For example, if you’re sitting and eating dinner together and she is using a behavior that isn’t appropriate at dinner time (i.e. bothering a sibling, playing with her food, etc.) you can say: “You may not poke your sister at the table. If you continue doing that, you will have to go to your room for the rest of dinner. It’s your choice.”

Continue dinner and if it happens one more time, send your child to her room. Don’t give “one more chance”. Don’t be tempted after 10 minutes to go in and tell her that she can rejoin you. Carry through on what you said! When dinner is over you can have her come to the table to finish her dinner alone. There is a goodchance that the beh... more »

2011-11-27 17:08:39 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 0 +1s)

GUILT
Sometimes parents feel so guilty about what they’re doing as parents that they try to make up for the mistakes in one area by being too lenient in another area.

If you’re working long hours or are taken out of the home for another reason (i.e. sick friend or parent) or are separated or divorced or are too tired to play or have just had a new baby or…………the list goes on!

That guilt that you feel often allows you to tell yourself that letting them watch all the TV they want or letting them have more junk food than you know you really want to give them is really OK. It’s a “patch” for them having to experience some upset or pain. Their whining and demanding either makes you feel sorry for them or frustrated with them.

As hard as it feels at times, some of the “struggling” that your child experiences is something that they just have to gothrough. It’s part o... more »

2011-11-26 16:33:02 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 0 +1s)

TIP: Give your child gentle reminders about what you expect. For example if your child is putting off getting their homework finished. Remind him that his favorite TV show is on at 8:00 and he needs to have the homework done before that time. As children get a little older, they have to learn how to manage their time. When kids know what the expectations are, it gives them a chance to be successful.

2011-11-25 20:12:19 (0 comments, 1 reshares, 3 +1s)

TIP: Sometimes putting your hand gently on your child’s shoulder when you speak is a great way to focus their attention on you. Something as simple as that often is a strong indicator to your child that you’re serious about what you’re saying! (Don’t squeeze or use pressure!)

2011-11-25 17:14:32 (5 comments, 0 reshares, 1 +1s)

TIP: If your child carries around a blanket that’s getting pretty raggedy, you may want to cut it into smaller and more manageable pieces! As your child gets older, you can cut it down a little smaller each month. Some kids have a harder time transitioning totally away from a blanket so this method often works to reduce the size! Some children just need the security of a little piece that they can keep in their pocket.

2011-11-25 17:14:16 (1 comments, 0 reshares, 3 +1s)

TIP: When you’re asking children to do something be specific! For example, “Please put away all of the cars on the floor” is much more clear than “Clean up that mess.” Even though you know what you mean, kids don’t see their cars all over the floor as a “mess”!

2011-11-23 17:35:05 (1 comments, 1 reshares, 2 +1s)

TIP: As a parent, teaching your child values is really one of the most difficult jobs that you’ll do. The qualities of honesty, kindness and giving to others aren’t the easiest concepts for your kids to understand. Being a role model yourself will help your child learn these character traits. As they get bigger, they’ll understand your “verbal” lessons too.

2011-11-23 17:33:27 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 2 +1s)

DO YOU HAVE “DRESSING” WARS?
From what comes as wonderful sign of independence and interest in choosing her clothes a morning battle can begin!
The “choosing” can quickly turn into a power struggle and lots of attention. Things that seemed cute in the beginning (like changing her mind) wear off quickly! A few minute activity of choosing clothes can turn into a half hour battle of wits!
If you’re already in that stage you can get it to stop. If you haven’t hit it yet, then you can avoid it.
Give your child a few minutes to choose. If it looks like a “delaying tactic” beginning, tell her that you will choose if she doesn’t give you her choice now. OR you can get a bell timer and put it on her bureau. Set it for two minutes. Tell her that when the bell rings that if she doesn’t have her clothes, then it will be your choice. You will probably get a screamingtantrum the first d... more »

2011-11-23 17:33:10 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 0 +1s)

TIP: Sometimes children get “lost in the shuffle” during the preparation and day of a holiday. Everyone is busy getting ready and it seems that kids often start acting out even more. They can feel the rushing around and possible tension. Even though some things may take a little longer with children, having them help and feel included often helps to reduce the problem behavior. Some pretty special memories and traditions of helping prepare are worth the extra time!

2011-11-23 17:32:58 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 0 +1s)

TIP: It’s not a good idea to point or shake your finger in your child’s face. Regular hand gestures add emphasis to your words while pointing a finger in your child’s face will only frighten anger or intimidate him. If you’ve been doing this then try to stop by holding your hands behind your back while you talk. If you’re conscious of doing it that’s a step forward in changing it!

2011-11-21 12:19:20 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 0 +1s)

DO YOU HAVE “DRESSING” WARS?
From what comes as wonderful sign of independence and interest in choosing her clothes a morning battle can begin!
The “choosing” can quickly turn into a power struggle and lots of attention. Things that seemed cute in the beginning (like changing her mind) wear off quickly! A few minute activity of choosing clothes can turn into a half hour battle of wits!
If you’re already in that stage you can get it to stop. If you haven’t hit it yet, then you can avoid it.
Give your child a few minutes to choose. If it looks like a “delaying tactic” beginning, tell her that you will choose if she doesn’t give you her choice now. OR you can get a bell timer and put it on her bureau. Set it for two minutes. Tell her that when the bell rings that if she doesn’t have her clothes, then it will be your choice. You will probably get a screamingtantrum the first d... more »

2011-11-19 17:13:19 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 2 +1s)

TIP: Whenever you take your children out to a restaurant, ask for a window seat! There are so many things for them to see that will can be perfect distractions when they’re getting a little bored. Depending on where you’re dining, it can be fun and educational too!

2011-11-18 13:43:15 (2 comments, 0 reshares, 3 +1s)

TIP: Sometimes you’re so busy doing things “for” your child that you don’t have much time left to do something “with” him. He’ll enjoy your time more than anything else. Sometimes cutting back on some after school activities gives you more time to spend together than just watching him from a distance.

2011-11-18 13:42:53 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 1 +1s)

5 GUARANTEED “Pre” TANTRUM BUSTERS!
If you can just feel a meltdown coming, try these few things. Often this can stop a tantrum before it starts!
1. Go outside and listen to the birds singing!
2. Get a big pillow and have him punch it!
3. Start singing a song~fairly loud! (Even singing very quietly works too).
4. Start being silly and dance around.
5. Pull out a jar of bubbles and just start blowing them (not in his direction).

Sometimes just a change of scenery or change in behavior of the person around him may “shift” the mood! Be creative! This usually doesn’t work if the tantrum has already begun!!

2011-11-16 12:22:07 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 2 +1s)

TIP: As difficult and exhausting as bedtime can be (especially if you have more than one child), you need to stick with your routine. If it’s a story, a drink of water, and lights out, don’t vary that and don’t let your child try to manipulate this time! They’re tired, but don’t want their day to end either. Once your kids know that you’re not varying what you’re doing (like adding “just one more story”), they’ll stop asking. The end of the day is just that! You need the break as much as they need the sleep!

2011-11-16 12:00:47 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 1 +1s)

TIP: To take away some boredom, “host” and art exhibit! Have every family member draw a picture and then hang them just like a typical art exhibit with a card under each picture saying the name of the picture and the name of the artist. Hang them where everyone will enjoy them!

2011-11-16 12:00:05 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 1 +1s)

TIP: The holidays are getting close so it’s time to “thin out” some of the toys that you have to make some room for new ones. If your children are old enough, it’s important to teach they about caring and sharing with other children. Have them sort through their toys and decide what they no longer play with and would like to share with others. You can contact local charities, churches, temples, hospitals, etc. to see where you can take your children to make their donation. They’re never too young to learn how to give!

2011-11-16 11:59:39 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 0 +1s)

TIP: The holidays are getting close so it’s time to “thin out” some of the toys that you have to make some room for new ones. If your children are old enough, it’s important to teach they about caring and sharing with other children. Have them sort through their toys and decide what they no longer play with and would like to share with others. You can contact local charities, churches, temples, hospitals, etc. to see where you can take your children to make their donation. They’re never too young to learn how to give!

2011-11-16 04:04:50 (3 comments, 0 reshares, 1 +1s)

PARENT QUESTION: How do you handle 1 ½ year olds hitting when they are on play dates?

ANSWER: When he's hitting is go to him, use a FIRM tone of voice, a little louder than you normally talk and say, "No, hitting" then quickly remove him to another area of the room. Often the firm tone of voice that is louder and the quick removal really have an impact. It has somewhat of a startling effect on a child. You need to use a monotone voice (but louder) with no facial expression. The more it looks like you’re reacting, the more he may enjoy the behavior.
Keep an eye on him to see if there is any pattern with a particular child or particular type of incident. If he's not verbal, then you will have to do the talking. I'm sure he can't ask to play with a toy or take a turn, but you have to tell him that when so and so is all done, it will be his turn. Then keepyo... more »

2011-11-16 04:01:11 (1 comments, 1 reshares, 1 +1s)

TIP: To adults, this may make little sense but sometimes just writing a sign saying “Monsters Keep Out” and posting it on your child’s bedroom door is all they need to feel safe from monsters!

2011-11-15 15:02:39 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 1 +1s)

TIP: A way to help your child control some of the whining in the grocery store is to tell her what you expect ahead of time. Tell her that she can choose one item (cereal, snack or chips). Let her know that if she is whining in the store that her item will go back on the shelf. If she wants to carry the package around the store with her, that’s fine. Actually it’s a constant reminder for her. If the whining starts, do not give more than one warning (if at all) before putting her special choice back!

2011-11-14 21:47:29 (0 comments, 3 reshares, 14 +1s)

2011-11-14 21:40:55 (0 comments, 1 reshares, 3 +1s)

TIP: If you are a parent who needs to travel for work, it’s a good idea to write a little note for each day that you’re gone. That way your child can open the note and feel the connection when you’re not there. You can write things that you’ll be doing that day or even things that you can do together when you are home. They don’t have to be long; just a sentence or two! Those notes can really be a bright spot in your child’s day!

2011-11-14 16:57:07 (4 comments, 0 reshares, 1 +1s)

I'm moving my posts to my Parenting Coach page. If you're a follower or are new, you will need to click on the words in blue, Parenting Coach Alison Astair, to be able to follow. Thanks!

2011-11-14 16:07:58 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 1 +1s)

IS YOUR CHILD GOING THROUGH THE TATTLETALE PHASE?

First of all, it’s normal for kids from ages 3-5 to tattletale! At that age, there are no shades of gray. Everything is just right or just wrong!

The good side of tattling is that your child is showing her moral compass—that she knows right from wrong. The difficult part of it is that they don’t know how to deal with situations themselves and can’t resolve conflicts on their own. This is where some teaching begins!

Kids this age don’t have the judgment of what is safe and what is not safe. They see it more as right or wrong! They may not see that their sibling climbing up to get a razor out of the medicine cabinet is unsafe but they know it’s wrong. But then they see the same “wrong” when their sibling took a doll out of their hand. Wrong is wrong to them!

Before you reprimand your childfor tattling, f... more »

2011-11-14 00:26:25 (1 comments, 0 reshares, 1 +1s)

Come and join my new Parenting Coach page!

2011-11-13 18:32:42 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 0 +1s)

TIPS: Being a supportive and encouraging parent shows your child that you understand your child’s emotions. It takes lots of time and effort!! But those actions promote a positive sense of self-esteem, heighten your child’s development and most important, build a healthy relationship between the two of you!

2011-11-13 16:27:47 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 2 +1s)

TIP: Slow down a little to get back in sync with your kids! Life goes by so quickly and we’re all so busy. Sometimes you just need to cancel a few things and spend that time with your children. Change takes time and they need some of that real quality time once in a while! Enjoy!

2011-11-13 16:24:35 (0 comments, 2 reshares, 3 +1s)

TRAINED TO STEAL....hahahahah LOL...

2011-11-13 16:23:22 (0 comments, 1 reshares, 3 +1s)

TIPS: Sometimes it’s really hard to figure out what kids are upset about! They aren’t that articulate! After all, not even adults can express their feelings all that clearly, so don’t expect your child to just explain their internal feelings! Sometimes you just have to go through cycles of discovery. Try to stay patient in the process!

2011-11-13 16:09:00 (4 comments, 0 reshares, 1 +1s)

For all of my old followers, please click on Parenting Coach to "RE-FOLLOW" ME here! I'm going to post on both pages for awhile but am trying to move everyone to this new page! Thanks!

2011-11-12 15:36:07 (3 comments, 0 reshares, 3 +1s)

For Parents who have been following my tips and short articles, I have a new page specifically devoted to this. Please click on the words Parenting Coach next to my picture and you will be directed there. Please circle me there because I will be slowly moving all content to this page. Thanks so much!

2011-11-11 15:09:43 (1 comments, 2 reshares, 3 +1s)

TIP: When it comes to discipline, the “One size fits all!” definitely doesn’t apply to small children! Some easy going children respond well to calm reminders or even a warning. Other children may need stronger limits; if you give in once, they’ll take advantage of it later. Just know your child!

2011-11-11 13:39:47 (3 comments, 0 reshares, 4 +1s)

I've moved my parent coach page to the new Google pages. If you've been following me before, please click on the link so you can keep following me! It's like starting all over! lol

2011-11-11 01:34:39 (2 comments, 0 reshares, 3 +1s)

I'm notifying the following that I have that I have started my Parenting page. Please come over to visit and add me to continue getting parenting tips, ask parenting question and read short articles. Thanks!

2011-11-11 01:25:58 (0 comments, 1 reshares, 1 +1s)

2011-11-10 22:47:55 (0 comments, 0 reshares, 0 +1s)

Does anyone else wish that you didn't have to "start all over" when making a new business page? Any hints on how to get your old following to your new page?