Enforcing Rules with Kids--Easier Said Than Done

I'm going to admit something that I'm not too proud of--sometimes, I'm a hypocrite. I dispense parenting advice that I have trouble following myself. Don't get me wrong--I believe in what I say. I just don't always practice what I preach.

Take the issue of enforcing rules--I'm not a total failure, but let's just say my batting average is pretty low. <---this mom is a pushover (shh-don't tell my husband or kids). I find it much easy to set forth the boundaries than to follow through on consequences. Several factors contribute to this shortcoming.  Enforcing Rules with Kids--Easier Said Than Done 

Why Children Throw Temper Tantrums in Public

Why Children Act Out and Throw Temper Tantrums in Public
You've seen them in the store and about. Out of control kids; screaming, temper tantrums, anger. You wish that the parent would do something. Then you see parent in action and understand. Children act out for a reason. Being 'a brat' is not a reason. Kids are learning self discipline and there are things you can do to help.
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Discipline and Kids: Respond vs React

Relationships and Communication: Proactive Response Vs Reactionary Behavior
In psychology, we use the terms 'reactive' and 'proactive' to define different types of response to stimulus. This article defines reactive vs. proactive behavior.  It also explores the affect that reactionary behavior vs. proactive response. The key is to learn self discipline and self care.
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Discipline Dialog How to Properly and Effectively Ground a Child

Parenting Issues How to Effectively Ground a Child
The oft used grounding or removal of privileges is a common punishment. I'm all for grounding as a measure of punishment. But effective grounding delicate. Many parents confuse length of grounding with effectiveness. Wrong. Kids need to learn self discipline and long groundings don't accomplish that.
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Safe Day Care Alternatives for Older Kids

Don't Send Your Older Kids to Daycare; Try These Resources
If you are forced to place your older children in day care, be prepared for some pretty unhappy kids. Typically by 10, although children are not 'old enough' to be out of day care, they typically are very dissatisfied.Help your children develop good self-care skills and habits of self-discipline with these day care alternative tips. Safe community resources!
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