Wednesday, April 6, 2016

Surly kids!

Surly kids! Our kids get cranky for a variety of reasons. Sometimes they are hungry, tired or just overcooked from a long day at school. Other times, our kids are overwhelmed from too much stimulation, too much homework or too many demands on them. In addition, anxiety usually shows up in kids as anger or defiance.  So, here's the bottom line: our kids' behavior is attempting to tell us something. It's our job to stay out of the behavior and rather than discipline them, reflect back what you think might be going on. "I think you've had a long day." Don't take their disrespect personally and help them to become insightful about what's triggering them for themselves. Then, in a happier moment, brainstorm some strategies for the next time. This parenting thing isn't for the faint of heart!

Wishing you balance,

Bette Levy Alkazian, LMFT, BCPC
Balanced Parenting
www.BalancedParenting.com

from MOMIPEDIA post on Facebook 4-6-16