Here are some parenting tips I use: 

State the rule, follow through with what you state, and be consistent. 

• Never threaten something that is humanly impossible: i.e. I'm gonna rip your heart out. It's brutal but it wouldn't happen. It might work for tiny unknowing children, but older ones will laugh. 


• Stop screaming. Kids bypass that tone after the first level increase. Find a way to teach children how to occupy themselves instead of expecting entertainment from a parent. Imagination is a blessing. Reading to them is time consuming and well worth it. 


• Develop habits early on. For example, from an early age, have them take their own utensils and non-breakable items to the kitchen after meals. 


• Involve children in habits and sports and KEEP THEM BUSY. If you don't, they will find something else to busy themselves and typically it's not what you would want. 


• Tell them randomly that you love them for no particular reason. 


• Encourage them to be proud of even the little things they can do for themselves by asking, "How proud are YOU of what you just did?" Let them struggle a little to achieve and master small things with encouraging them, you can do it!!!! 


• Be involved in outside activities.  Kids shine when their parent/s come to see them. 


• Finally, stay off your damn phones with texting or personal conversations until they are in bed or school. Your days are moving by quickly so learn to enjoy as much as you possibly can because you never know what the future will bring. 

God Bless you Dr. Laura! 

Cynthia