Your Parenting Mojo

Key Takeaways Childhood defiance is rarely about willfulness. When a child pushes back, they’re usually either trying to connect with you or telling you they’ve had too little say over their own day. When your child says a flat “no” instead of melting down, that’s actually progress. Simple refusals show more self-control than defiance does. A child who complies with everything ...

Key Takeaways  Most parenting resolutions don’t stick because they rely on willpower instead of addressing underlying needs. When you’re triggered, your nervous system takes over and willpower can’t stop that. Intentional parenting means choosing how you respond instead of reacting on autopilot. You figure out what needs drive your and your kids’ behavior, then set up your...

Key Takeaways Family holiday stress signals unmet needs – yours (e.g. rest, autonomy) bumping against theirs (e.g.. connection, belonging, competence in their role as a parent/grandparent). Both sets of needs are valid. We all feel best when our needs are met.  Starting by looking for strategies that meet both of your needs always helps.   Where you can’t find st...