Sarina Behar Natkin, LICSW

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10 Parenting Tips, 10 Words or Less

For those of you who are regular readers of my blog, I'm sure you are aware brevity is not my forte. In fact, some of my posts are so long I’ve been asked if they are actually novels in disguise.

When it comes to communicating with children though, grownups often make the mistake of doing too much talking. In trying to get our point across, and be understood, we tend to go on in our rationalizing, lecturing, and explaining, hoping they will finally see our point and agree we are right.

In my experience, this is rarely effective and often serves to escalate their anger and frustration. When we communicate more succinctly, it is not only more efficient, but more effective as well.

I love a challenge and wanted to see if those of us who support parents could take our own advice. I asked nine other Positive Discipline Trainers & Educators to join me in the challenge of sharing one of their top parenting tips in ten words or less. I have to say, they knocked this challenge out of the park. So, I will take my own advice, be brief, and let the tips speak for themselves!

Tip #1

When you really want to lecture, ask thoughtful questions instead.

Glenda Montgomery, CPDLT


Tip #2

Special time builds relationship and invites more cooperative behavior.

Casey O'Roarty, M.Ed, CPDT, Joyful Courage


Tip #3

I can't make you, but it would be tremendous!

Lisa Fuller, MSW, CPCC, Lisa Fuller Coaching


Tip #4

When facing challenges, focus on emotions first & problems second.

Sarina Natkin, LICSW, CPDT, Sarina Natkin Parenting


Tip #5

Relationships are the basis for teaching skills & solving conflicts.

Kelly Pfeiffer, CPDLT, Think It Through Parenting


Tip #6

Strive to appreciate your child "as is" - imperfections and all!

Debbie Zeichner, LCSW


Tip #7

It's about progress, not perfection.

Carol Dores, CPDT, Positive Discipline of Connecticut


Tip #8

Give your child the freedom to be imperfect- make mistakes!

Paige Michaelis, CPDE, SPHR, 1 Minute Mommy


Tip #9

Celebrate your child's strengths. Have faith in them.

Sahara Pirie, LMP, CPDLT, Parenting With Heart & Soul


Tip #10

When in doubt, act in service of nurturing the relationship.

Nathan M McTague, CPCC, CPDPE, Your Self-Fulfiling Life