A parent has incredible power.  When both parents agree, that power is more than doubled.  If they disagree, their combined power drops to less than that of a single parent.  Ex.  When things get tough or hard, help your child learn perseverance by saying, “Press on- I know you are going to get it or make it” or “we are proud of you for hanging in there with your soccer even though you haven’t won any games yet.”  If the job they are doing seems overwhelming, divide it into 2 or 3 sections and encourage a break in between.

Persuade your children to do the rotten jobs and chores first.  When you look at the list of things to do, do the thing you didn’t even want to do on your own list …. and do it first.  Otherwise, it will spoil the rest of your day.  Help your child learn tasks!  Start young, do them together and celebrate.  Set a hurdle low and let them clear it before you raise it.  Set time limits and teach them about time management.  With all tasks: Let them watch you, let them help you, you help them and then you watch them! (more…)

Fall is my absolute favorite time of the year!  I love the cooler mornings and evenings.  It seems to help me focus on my family more, especially with the upcoming holiday seasons.  Looking for something fun to do this fall weekend that won’t break the bank? Make some family memories, begin fall traditions and enjoy life. Let’s start your Friday evening at a local High School football game or other fall sport.  It not only brings back memories of your high school days but also begins to spark the interest of your little ones.  There is something to be said about the game, the band, the cheerleaders, and the halftime shows.  Local high school sports are a great fall tradition!  Check your local high school website for game dates and times or call the school secretary.  Wake-up on Saturday and visit your local pumpkin patch.  Create a “pumpkin family” with your purchases!  Once you return home, have a decorating “party” with your family.  You will be amazed on items you can find in your pantry to use as decorations.  On Sunday, enjoy a family breakfast.  Don’t forget to bake pumpkin bread for a great treat.  Fill your home with the sweet aroma of pumpkin and it is sure to have your family “Falling for Fall!”

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