Become a Fan
While 3- and 4-year-olds still need plenty of parental help, our preschool experts agree that kids are typically able to do more than many of us think. Here's how you can encourage them:
1. Expect more. Most people have a way of living up (or down) to expectations -- preschoolers included. "At school we expect the kids to pour their own water at snack, to throw away their plates, to hang up their...
You go ahead without me.” “I’m afraid to raise my hand.” “I’d rather be by myself.” What do you do if you have an extremely shy child? A son who looks like he's in pain when another kids tries to have a simple conversation...a daughter who stares at the ground when she's introduced to someone new? Kids who hang back are handicapped from experiencing life to its fullest. Shy kids curtail their...
Be available for your children
Notice times when your kids are most likely to talk--for example, at bedtime, before dinner, in the car--and be available.
Start the conversation; it lets your kids know you care about what's happening in their lives.
Find time each week for a one-on-one activity with each child, and avoid scheduling other activities during that time.
Learn about your children's...
Whining is a habit your child developed over time, and it will take a little time to break it. But, don't despair; you can stop your child's whining habit. Here's how.
Notice when she whines and choose your response. Changing the pattern of whining begins when you change how you respond to it.
When you notice her whining, call her attention to it. Whining has become an unconscious habit by the...
Your school age children often spend more time with their teachers than they do with you. It is important that you, your children, and their teachers have a good working relationship. A good relationship will help your child do better in school as well as reduce stress in your life.
Here are some ideas for building a relationship of trust with your children's teachers:
• Be aware of difficulties...
