Kids

Keep your composure: Don't overreact to your kids’ mouthing off or get into a power struggle over their choice of words or their tone. And, of course, never respond in kind. The best way to teach your children to speak respectfully is to do so yourself. So tell them, "I think you can find a better way to say that." A knee-jerk "Don't you talk to me that way, you little … [Read more...] about How can fathers deal with back talk?

Check out the situation: Before you decide that your children are turning into a tattletale, take stock of the situation yourself. Your children need to learn not to tattle, but they also need to feel secure in the knowledge that they can ask for help when necessary. You might tell your youngsters that it's okay to alert you when someone does something dangerous, but they may … [Read more...] about What to do about tattling

Define it: Before you pin on your No Whining button and draw a line in the sand, make sure your child understands what you're talking about. Most children recognize whining, but check to see if your children knows which is their whiny voice. Label whining when you hear it, and ask your children to use their regular voice instead. Acknowledge your children's need for … [Read more...] about What to do about whining?

Be understanding: Try not to get angry at examples of random behavior. Try putting yourself in their shoes sometimes. Be kind but firm. Set limits: Children need – and even want – limits, so set them and make sure your children know what they are. Spell it out for them: "You're not allowed to make phone calls without permission" or "You must come in when I call you the … [Read more...] about How can a father deal with rebellion?

Your children rely on you as a father for almost everything — food, drink, love, money, toys, transportation, you name it. They have to get an adult's attention to obtain the things they need, and that can be a challenge. A whine is the sound of a child who feels powerless and is pitching his request in higher and higher tones to get someone to pay attention to him.   … [Read more...] about The sound of whining