How to Concentrate, Focus, and Achieve

Is homework time turning into a daily battle with your child? It's not a clash between you and your child; rather, it's an internal struggle within their mind to concentrate. We understand the challenges of maintaining focus, and that's why we're here to share two effective strategies with you.

Imagine your child, let's call him Jonas, eagerly yearning for video game adventures while his homework languishes in his backpack. Here's what you can do:

The Homework Station:

Create a designated homework haven away from tech distractions.

1. Organize supplies within easy reach - computer, paper, pencils, and pens.
2. Be nearby to offer support and guidance.
3. Set a consistent homework time each day.

Concentration Technique - The Tent and The Torch:

Assist Jonas in crafting a positive affirmation to combat distractions. For instance: "My torch is in hand. Let my mind expand." or "First homework, then my video game." Then, guide him through this visualization:

 

First Homework, Then Video Games

1. Close his eyes.
2. Envision the study space as a protective tent, illuminated by a small flashlight (the torch).
3. Direct the torch's focus onto the homework.
4. Prioritize tasks and re-visualize when distractions arise.
5. Recite the affirmation to dispel disruptions.

Practice this technique together daily until Jonas internalizes it. The Tent and The Torch not only enhances concentration but instills valuable self-discipline, paving the way for future success.

The Focusing Technique - The Puzzle List

Now, imagine your daughter, Maria, who despises homework even more than Jonas but adores her cell phone. Here's a tailored approach:

1. Discuss homework as a puzzle with a list of tasks.
2. Guide her in creating a puzzle list for her essay, breaking it down into manageable pieces.
3. When tempted by her phone, encourage Maria to touch the part of the puzzle list she's working on and recite her chosen affirmation.

4 Sample Affirmations:

• First homework, then my cell phone.
• My phone I resist. I'll work on my list.
• My homework’s in hand. Let my mind expand.
• I am diving right in. Let the learning begin.

Conclusion for 2 Concentration Techniques:

 

Her Well-Deserved Reward

Both Jonas and Maria are on a journey of self-discipline, the cornerstone of success. Jonas's Tent and Torch shield him from distractions, while Maria's Puzzle List keeps her on track. After completing their homework, both can enjoy well-deserved rewards—Jonas with a video game and Maria with her cell phone.

Learning to concentrate is a lifelong gift. By guiding your children to develop this skill, you set the foundation for their future success. Start today!

Puzzle Time:

Unscramble - ncoonictenatr, khroomwe, ssetraegti

Tongue Twisters for your family to say 5 times as quickly as possible:

1. Kids with grit get a kick out-witting clever quirky homework.
2. Cleverly crafted assignments create capable, confident kids.
3. Happy homework helpers help heroes here at home.
4. Homework habits help me show that I make my skills grow.
5. Sunny students seek success through their steady homework.

 Short Video Reinforcer: How Parents Motivate Children's Brain Power (just 1 minute, 13 seconds)

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Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

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Answers - Puzzle time Unscramble - Concentration, homework, strategies

AI assisted.

The Tattletale Window to Social Awareness

Tattletale Begone! Social Awareness Flow In

Social awareness is like opening a window to let empathy and understanding flow in. It helps your child see the bigger picture and connect with others. Today, we’ll open the tattletale window by:

1. Discussing a common dilemma.
2. Help your child’s mind become more socially aware with questions.
3. Help them see the bigger picture about tattling.
4. Solve two puzzles.
5. Encourage them to connect with others without becoming a tattletale.

Dinner Dilemma Discussions

Understanding Why Kids Tattle: Kids tattle for a few reasons:

1. Children want to do the right thing. They want others to do the right thing too. When they see something wrong, they may feel compelled to tattle.
2. Children may want to feel important, so they tattle to gain attention.
3. Children may want revenge, so they tattle to get someone in trouble.

Kids may lack the experience to know when not to tattle. It's essential for kids to learn when to inform an adult, which is not tattling. The right word for this is 'Telling.' Telling is about helping others, such as when:

• Someone falls and is bleeding.
• Someone's crying because Rover (the dog) is lost.
• Someone needs help with a heavy chore.

A Common School Dilemma: Imagine a situation where a classmate, Penny, is constantly tattling. Your teacher reacts to Penny’s behavior. Discuss this with your child and encourage them to role-play different scenarios.

 

Tattletale Girl

Role-play the Big Tattletale Dilemma:

1. "Role-play being the teacher and Penny. Pick out a family member to be the teacher and someone to be Penny. What will they say? How will they show your teacher's feelings? Take turns role-playing. Exaggeration and laughter are welcome.
   
   

 

Penny kept interrupting her teacher.

2. Discuss your family's opinions about the role-play and tattling:

Ask each member each question.

1. How do you think teachers feel about tattletales?
2. How do you think Penny felt?
3. Do you like kids to tattle? Why?
4. Is telling a teacher someone fell on the playground and is bleeding being a tattletale? Why?
5. What’s the difference between tattling and telling?

This dilemma could encourage your child to think beyond themselves and develop social awareness.

PUZZLE TIME

Quiz for Kids about Tattling: Let's see what you've learned about tattling!

1. When might a child want to tattle?

1. When they want to help someone.
2. When they want to feel important.
3. When they want revenge.
4. All the above.

2. What is the difference between tattling and telling?

1. Tattling is always a good thing.
2. Telling is when you want to get someone in trouble.
3. Telling is informing an adult to help someone while tattling is trying to get someone in trouble.
4. Tattling and telling are the same thing.

3. Is telling a teacher about someone who fell on the playground and is bleeding being a tattletale? a. Yes, b. No

Remember, it's essential to choose the option that best fits the situation and promotes kindness and understanding!

Answers: 1. b, c 2. c 3. No

Dear puzzle enthusiasts,

In today's special edition of "The Tattletale Tightrope," we have a fun and challenging puzzle for you! Solving this puzzle will not only be a great brain exercise but also a lesson in family teamwork and kindness. Are you ready? Let's dive in!

Puzzle Instructions:

1. Below, you'll find a series of scrambled words related to kindness and positive actions. Unscramble the letters to reveal the hidden words.
2. Once you unscramble each word, write it down.

Scrambled Words:

1. SKINSNED
2. LELPHFU
3. GODO
4. GAINRC
5. YAFRINLE

Use Your Brainpower and Think:

Once you've unscrambled all the words, think about what each of the words means and how you can incorporate these actions into your daily life to spread kindness and create a better world. Discuss it with your family and share your ideas!

Remember, kindness begins with YOU. Let's work together to make the world a better, kinder place.

Happy puzzling and spreading kindness!

Unscrambled Words:

1. KINDNESS
2. HELPFUL
3. GOOD
4. CARING
5. FRIENDLY

Well done! Keep practicing kindness and spreading positivity wherever you go.

Watch this short video to learn an important tip about turning tattletales into kind siblings! 

Best Tip for Tattletales

Remember, the power of these discussions lies in the connections you'll create the values you'll reinforce, and the growth you'll inspire. So, let's come together and embrace the magic of dilemma discussions. Get ready for captivating conversations and endless opportunities to nurture your family values!

Dilemma

Discussion Kit

Ready to embark on this values-driven adventure? Grab your Dilemma Discussion Kit today. It's your golden key for nurturing strong family bonds and shaping the character of your loved ones.

(Note: The provided link will direct you to our website where you can access the Dilemma Discussion Kit. Happy discussing!)

Like this post? Please comment and share it with your friends on social media.

Thanks so much,

With warm wishes,

Jean Tracy

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AI assisted.

Why Listening is a Parenting Superpower

Listening is a powerful parenting tool that can help you build stronger relationships, solve problems, and create compassion within your family. Here are six reasons why listening counts:

1. Listening Cares

 My listening is caring.

My kids love our sharing.

Listening Is the Caring Connection Between Parent and Child

"When you listen, you sprinkle caring into the conversation."

When you listen to your child with care, you show them that you value their thoughts and feelings. This helps them feel loved and supported, which is essential for their emotional well-being.

Listening Understands

I listen with understanding,

And my mind is expanding.

Listening Boosts Understanding Between Parents and Children

"When parents listen, they give children the gift of their time and attention."

When you listen to your child with understanding, you try to see things from their perspective. This helps you build trust and rapport, and it makes it more likely that your child will come to you for help when they need it.

3. Listening Heals

 

My listening is healing.

It's a beautiful feeling.

Listening is the Superpower to Healing Your Kids' Emotions

"Your listening is the silent kiss your child loves." 

Listening heals. When you listen to your child with compassion, you help them to feel validated and understood. This can help them to heal from emotional pain and to cope with difficult experiences.

4. Listening Supports

 

My listening is supportive,

And the results are effective.

Listening Gives Your Child the Support System They Need

"Love is heard through the ears, not just the lips."

When you listen to your child with support, you offer them encouragement and guidance. This helps them to feel confident and capable, and it makes it more likely that they will succeed in life.

5. Listening Encourages

 

My listening is encouraging,

And my children are

flourishing.

 

Encouraging Parents Boost Their Children's Belief in Themselves

"Your listening is like a warm hug in your child's heart."

When you listen to your child with encouragement, you let them know that you believe in them. This helps them to develop a positive self-image and to achieve their goals.

6. Listening Bonds

 

My listening is bonding, 

And my children are responding.

Children Who Feel Heard and Respected by Their Parents Bond with Them

"Parents who listen are like hearts beating in harmony with their children."

 When you listen to your child with empathy, you create a strong connection between you and them. This helps your child to feel safe and loved, and it makes it more likely that they will thrive.

Based on this article, here is a little Quiz. Pick out the best answer:

When you listen to your child with care, you show them that you:

• 1. Value their thoughts and feelings
  2. Love and support them
  3. Understand their perspective
  4. All the above

When you listen to your child with care you show 'd' All the above. 

Conclusion for Listening - Your Parenting Superpower

Listening is a skill that takes time and practice to develop. But it's one of the most important skills a parent can have. By listening to your child with care, understanding, and compassion, you can build a solid foundation for a happy and healthy relationship.

Your call to action: Pick out one of the 6 listening techniques to practice. Add a new one each week. Let me know the results.

This 50-second video The Key to Family Closeness is helpful when you don't have time to talk. Its tip is priceless.

 

The Key to Family Closeness

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Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

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Dear Parent!

Your heartfelt love creates an incredible journey with your child. It's filled with joy, laughter, and love. But let's face it, sometimes communicating with our children can be a challenge. We've all had those moments of not understanding their feelings and struggles.

Parenting Struggles:

We get it. Talking with your child can be tough. Balancing everyday life while staying tuned in to your child's world isn't always easy. Distractions, impatience, and finding the right balance between listening and guiding can hurt effective communication. But remember, you're not alone on this journey.

 

Parents Face Challenges.

 

But don't worry! This post is here to help you overcome those struggles and strengthen the deep connection with your child through the power of parenting with heart by 'listening with heart.' 

Practical Tips for Listening with Heart:

1. Be a Safe and Non-judgmental Parent:

Be a safe space where your child can freely express themselves. Here's how:

• Look them in the eye.
• Show open body language.
• Give them your undivided attention.
• Remember the 70/30 Rule: Listen 70%. Speak 30%.
• Be open-minded and caring.

This builds trust and encourages your child to share their thoughts and feelings.

2. Confirm and Empathize:

 

 Understand Your Child's Feelings

Support your child's feelings. Use phrases like:

• "I understand how you feel."
• "It's okay to feel that way."
• "I'm sorry that happened."
• "You seem happy."
• "What's making you smile?"

By speaking in these ways, you show care and understanding.

Quote from a Child Therapist:

Dr. Haim G. Ginott, a respected child psychologist, once said, "Children are like wet cement. Whatever falls on them makes an impression." Your empathetic listening can leave a lasting positive impression on your child's emotional well-being.

3. Strike the Balance:

Listening with heart doesn't mean being a passive listener. Your child looks up to you for guidance and support. Find the right balance by setting clear boundaries and expectations. Here are three guidelines:

• Be Respectful: Listen without interruptions, giving each other time to express thoughts and expectations. Expect respect from your child too.
• Pay Attention: Show you value the conversation by giving your full attention and removing distractions.
• Encourage Positive Behavior: When children feel heard and confirmed, it encourages positive behavior. It helps them develop a powerful sense of self-worth. It also leads them to healthier relationships and decision-making.

Remember, offer gentle guidance without imposing solutions, and let your child explore their thoughts to find their answers.

 

"I Can Choose"

These guidelines empower children to engage in discussions, fostering understanding, respect, and effective communication. Follow these tips. Your children will share their thoughts and build a stronger relationship with you.

Remember, setting clear boundaries with children is an ongoing process that requires consistency, open communication, and understanding. It helps your child develop structure, responsibility, and respect for themselves and others.

Based on the content of this blog, here is a little quiz:

 Which of the following is NOT a practical tip for "listening with heart"?

1. a) Show open body language.
2. b) Use interruptions to guide the conversation.
3. c) Listen 70% and speak 30%.
4. d) Be open-minded and caring.

Answer: b) Use interruptions to guide the conversation.

Listening without interruptions is essential for "listening with heart." The other options (a, c, and d) are positive and effective strategies for connecting with your child.

Conclusion:

By acknowledging the struggles and challenges of parenting, you can take steps to overcome them. "Listening with heart" is the key to a deeper connection with your child.

Embrace the practical strategies we've shared, create a safe space, affirm their emotions, strike the balance between listening and guiding, and explore creative avenues for communication.

 

'Listening with Heart' Helps Her Bond with You

       Please listen - only 1 minute and 11 seconds.

Now, go and strengthen that special bond with your child through the magic of listening!

Like this post? Please comment and share it with your friends on social media.

Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

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Car Talk: Building Memories on the Road

Family vacations are an excellent opportunity for meaningful conversations with your children. Engaging in conversation starters allows your kids to express their thoughts. They give you a chance to understand their perspectives. Likewise, it provides a platform for your children to hear your thoughts as well.

In this blog post, we will explore a family's car chats. Use them to make your family vacations memorable and enjoyable for everyone. Pick up our fifteen conversation starters with your special code before you go.

 

Timing Family's Thoughts

Kickstart your conversations with a little friendly competition. Set a timer and allocate a specific duration. Two minutes for each person to speak is good. The rule is simple: "No Interrupting!"  These two techniques ensure that everyone gets a turn to express themselves.

Fact: Research shows that active listening and effective communication within families can strengthen bonds and enhance understanding.

Quote: “Family is not an important thing. It’s everything.” –Michael J. Fox

First Conversation Starter:

 

Making Memories Together

Encourage thoughtful responses. Urge your child to think before they speak. This prompts the child to take a moment to organize their thoughts before starting the timer. It helps develop their communication skills and encourages mindful expression.

Metaphor: Just as a sculptor meticulously shapes their creation, let your child carefully sculpt their words before sharing their thoughts.

Quote: “The most important thing in the world is family and love.” –John Wooden

Second Conversation Starter:

 

Using The Power of Visualization

Stimulate the power of visualization by asking your child to imagine their response before speaking. This technique allows them to tap into their creativity and promotes imaginative thinking. It adds a fun twist to the conversation, making it engaging for everyone involved.

Conversation Tip:

If a member wishes to choose a previous person's topic, time them for two minutes to provide equal speaking opportunities. This fun twist adds a touch of excitement and ensures everyone's ideas are heard.

Quote: “To us, family means putting your arms around each other and being there.” –Barbara Bush

Third Conversation Starter:

 

Fostering Family Communication and Interest

Reflect on your earliest memory and share why it has remained significant to you. This question allows Mom to take a nostalgic journey, reminiscing about a special moment from her past. The family gets to learn something about Mom they never knew.

Quote: “Family gives you the roots to stand tall and strong.”

Fourth Conversation Starter:

 

 Uniting Families through Shared Stories

Explore what Dad loves most about the family and why. This prompt encourages Dad to express his appreciation for the unique qualities and bonds shared within the family unit.

Are you going on a family trip, enjoying a car ride, or spending a cozy night at home? These conversation openers can create a warm and engaging atmosphere within your family. Remember, the key is to have fun and cherish the moments spent together.

To make our fifteen conversation starters (below) easily accessible, consider placing them in an envelope, a glove compartment, purse, or a backpack. Why? To ensure they are within reach whenever a conversation inspiration strikes.

Enjoy our enhanced conversation starters. Explore the enriching conversations that await you!

Conversation Starters Conclusion:

Utilizing conversation starters during family vacations can create cherished memories and foster meaningful connections. They give each family member an equal chance to express their thoughts. These conversation starters enhance communication within the family unit. So, make sure to pack the free conversation starters below for your next trip or even a cozy night at home. Remember, a happy family vacation is all about having fun together.

Fact: Engaging in regular family conversations has been linked to improved child development and overall family well-being.

Quote: “The only rock I know that stays steady, the only institution I know that works, is the family.” –Lee Iacocca

Don't miss out! Visit www.KidsDiscuss.com and enter the code "CAR" to download all fifteen conversation starters for free. Also, feel free to comment and share this post with your friends on social media.

You might also like to learn more about travel benefits for children from my friend, John Bramer:

Family Travel: The Positive Developmental Impact of Travel on Kids

https://www.loveholidays.com/holidays/family-travel-child-development/

It's an easy delightful read and matches our ideas nicely.

With warm wishes,

Jean Tracy

P.S. Sign up for my FREE Parenting Newsletter and receive exclusive content, including 80 Fun Activities to Share with Your Kids and 101 Ways to Get Your Children to Cooperate.

Dilemma Discussion Kit!

How Family Meals Bring Togetherness

Hi, parents! Imagine this: you gather around the dinner table, a warm and inviting space where the world outside fades away. No screens, no distractions—just you and your loved ones, ready to create lasting memories together. Sounds ideal, right? Well, guess what? You can make it a reality!

We are introducing the transformative power of unplugging and connecting as a family. It's time to put those pesky cell phones in their place and rediscover the joy of genuine human connection. Here's how you can make it happen:

Step 1: The Cell Phone Solution: Take charge of your family time by designating a cell phone-free zone during meals. It's a simple yet powerful act that sets the stage for meaningful interactions and undivided attention.

 

Unplug and connect!

Step 2: Teach the Art of Listening: In this fast-paced digital age, listening has become a lost art. But fear not, because you have the power to change that! Guide your children toward becoming attentive listeners with these three simple prompts:

Prompt #1: Let them learn the value of patience. Avoid interrupting the speaker. Please encourage them to wait their turn, listen, and give everyone a chance to express themselves fully.

Prompt #2: Foster the power of eye contact. Show your kids the importance of locking eyes with the person speaking, showing that their words truly matter.

Listening 70% - Speaking 30% is Key

Prompt #3: Cultivate curiosity by asking questions. Inspire your kids to ask thoughtful and engaging questions to show their genuine interest in what a member is saying.

Step 3: Sharpen Your Listening Skills: As parents, we must lead by example. Here are three tips to enhance your listening skillset 
:

Tip #1: Time management is key. Set a time limit for each speaker to ensure that everyone gets an opportunity to share their thoughts and experiences. Two minutes per person is a sweet spot.

 

Use a Timer

Tip #2: Embrace inclusivity. Create an environment where every voice is heard. Encourage open discussions and provide a platform for everyone to express themselves, regardless of age or status.

Tip #3: Confirm and understand. Repeat what the speaker said in your own words. This shows that you were actively listening. It also helps avoid misinterpretations and results in deeper understanding.

Now, let's spice up those family conversations with some open-ended chats! These thought-provoking topics will ignite engaging discussions and bring you closer together:

Topic 1: The best thing that happened in school today. Celebrate achievements, big or small, and share moments of pride and joy.

 

Share the Best Thing in School Today

Topic 2: Lessons learned from mistakes. Embrace the power of sharing weakness and growth by discussing mistakes and the valuable insights gained from them.

Topic 3: Unraveling the qualities of a good friend. Explore the attributes that make friendships special and discuss the importance of kindness, loyalty, and support.

Dilemma Discussions: Nurturing Family Values

Dear readers! Today, let's dive into an exciting and engaging way to teach and reinforce those oh-so-important family values: dilemma discussions. It's like a mini adventure where you explore topics like bullying, cheating, lying, gossiping, making friends, and good manners, all while strengthening the bond within your family. So, let's get started on this journey of nurturing values together!

To spark those meaningful conversations, I've got three delightful dilemma discussion examples for you: 

 

Discuss Sibling Teasing

Example 1: Sibling Teasing: Pretend your twin brother has a knack for teasing and pulling your hair. Ouch, right? But here's the challenge: can you come up with a positive way to react to his teasing? It's an opportunity to explore empathy, assertiveness, and finding constructive solutions within the family.

Example 2: Homework Honesty: Imagine this, your best friend sneaks a peek at your homework and copies your answers. Uh-oh! How would you respond to this sticky situation? This dilemma discussion opens the door to exploring integrity, honesty, and the importance of standing up for what's right, even when it's challenging.

Example 3: Truth and Consequences: Meet Karen, your friend who fibbed to her mom about going to your house but ended up at the mall instead. Now her mom is calling you to find out Karen's whereabouts. What will you say? This scenario prompts discussions about honesty, trust, and the consequences of our actions.

Our exclusive Dilemma Discussion Kit can take your discussions to the next level. It's packed with 41 more captivating conversations to ignite thought-provoking discussions and help you delve deeper into your family values.

 

Family Discussions Create Togetherness

Remember, the power of these discussions lies in the connections you'll create, the values you'll reinforce, and the growth you'll inspire. So, let's come together and embrace the magic of dilemma discussions. Get ready for captivating conversations and endless opportunities to nurture your family values!

Dilemma

Discussion Kit

Ready to embark on this values-driven adventure? Grab your Dilemma Discussion Kit today by visiting: https://tinyurl.com/2t83e253. It's your golden key for nurturing strong family bonds and shaping the character of your loved ones.

(Note: The provided link will direct you to our website where you can access the Dilemma Discussion Kit. Happy discussing!)

Like this post? Please comment and share it with your friends on social media.

Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

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Why won't this daughter listen?

Parents, who cannot listen, are the worst communicators. They cannot teach effective communication because they don’t practice it. 

Hey there! Are you someone who argues instead of listening to your child? Many parents do. Yet, listening is your most important parenting tool. Don't worry, if you decide to, you can always improve it. There are some habits you might have to brush aside before becoming a good listener.

Today I will share:

5 listening mistakes to avoid

5 simple listening habits to increase

1 simple formula for being your child's best counselor

3 fun listening activities for your family. 

5 Harmful Listening Habits to Avoid as a Parent:

Do you ever:

1. Interrupt your child?
2. Discount your child's opinions?
3. Dismiss your child's feelings?
4. Criticize your child?
5. Lecture your child?

Don't be overly concerned because here are 5 easy listening habits that you can use right now. They'll quickly improve your listening skills.

5 Listening Habits to Learn, Practice, and Model:

 

Father and Son Communicating

1. Look your child in the eye.
2. Focus on what they are saying.
3. Remember the key points.
4. Repeat those points in your words.
5. Ask questions to better understand your child.

By practicing these skills, you'll become a better listener. You'll be teaching your child good communication skills too. 

Become Your Child's Best Counselor:

Do you know why counselors are loved by their clients? It's because they are good listeners. They practice the 5 good habits. They also include the 70% Law of Communication, meaning, they listen 70% and speak 30%. As a parent, strive to speak less, listen more, and appreciate your child's thoughts and feelings. As you progress, notice how your relationship with your child strengthens. You'll become your child's best counselor too.

Here are 3 activities to make 'listening' a priority in your family: 

3 Activities for Family Listening:

1. Post a ‘Listening Habit of the Week’ on your refrigerator. Practice that habit in your home and outside your family. ‘Catch your children being good’ with a compliment when they listen well. 
2. The Morning Forecast: Tell your child, “Name something you’re looking forward to today.” The Evening Review: Ask, "What are some things you are grateful about today?"
3. Create free time each day and turn off technology. Use this time to discuss both your day and your child's day. Practice the 70% Law. 

Make 'Listening' a priority in your family. Listening Works!

Video - Short Clip - 1.11 minutes 

Sometimes pictures do speak 1,000 words. What do you think?

Like this post? Tell me what you think. Please share it with your friends on social media.

Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

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Mother and Daughter Discussing Character

Judging character is easy to teach. Coach your child to see how a person acts and hear what she says. Is the other kind, honest, and respectful? Or is she rude, unkind, and dishonest?

Training Your Child to Look for the Good 

Good Character is about being honest and having strong moral values. You can trust an honest person. But a dishonest person signals the red alert, "He lies. I can't trust him." The following questions open your child's eyes to finding good character in others.

Parenting Tip List - How to Ask about Character: 

Consider using these discussions around the kitchen table, in the car, or at bedtime.

1. Reject fault-finding in classmates.

• How can the habit of finding fault in others hurt you?
• How could fault-finding lead to gossip?
• What do you think about gossiping?

 

How Could Gossip Hurt Him?

2. Explore the Qualities of Character:

• How would you describe someone with a weak character?
• What are signs of a good character?
• How would you recognize the good character in others?

   3. Help Your Child Make Friends with Kids of Good Character:

• How can you be friendly?
• How can you have fun?
• How can you be appreciative?

3. Practice Praising a Classmate's Good Character:

 

Girl Enjoying a Compliment

• Pick a classmate to praise.
• What would you say? Let’s practice. 
• Share it with your classmate and tell me what happened.
• Who will you praise next?

Help your child listen to a classmate's words and see how she acts. He'll be assessing the 'content of her character.' It can influence him about who to avoid and who to choose as a friend. 

Guide your child to 'look for the good' in others. He will find it because you opened his eyes to see and his ears to hear.

Like this post? Please comment and share it with your friends on social media.

Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

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"Positive Thinking Works Wonders"

Norman Vincent Peale wrote the Power of Positive Thinking. This short parenting article and video share how positive thinking leads to positive action.

Children can use positive actions to make friends. They can become friendly. Friendly children are a delight to know. They see the good in others and tell them. Because they are positive and friendly, they are magnets.

Friendly children give peers what they want: sincere attention, appreciation, and compliments. These positive actions boost the receiver’s spirit. Friendships may be the result. Norman Vincent Peale was right, “Positive thinking works wonders.”

Here's How It Works – 

 

Be Positive! Be Friendly!

Your Child:

1. Rejects fault-finding and criticism.
2. Looks for the honest good in others.
3. Doesn’t keep it to themselves.
4. Praises the other.
5. Makes friends.

How to Encourage Your Student to Find the Good in a Classmate.

 

Discuss and Encourage Honest Praise.

1. Pick a classmate to praise.
2. Discuss different genuine compliments to give.
3. Tell your child, “Share the compliment.”
4. “Come home and tell me what happened.”
5. Praise your child and ask, “Who do you want to compliment next?” Repeat the process.

How Parents Can Teach Kids an Unfriendly Attitude 

 

Looking for the Worst in Others

1. Look critical. Be critical.
2. Search for the worst in others.
3. Gossip about it.
4. Feel superior to your victim.
5. Lose your kids' trust to confide in you because you might tell others.

Looking for the worst in others and broadcasting it to people is gossiping. Gossip is bad for our minds. It creates adverse pathways in our brains. Our attitudes turn sour. Dissatisfaction and gloominess can result.

Proving Norman Vincent Peale Right

 

Look for the Good - So Easy!

Looking for the best in others and telling them specifically is a loving act. Honest complimenting is good for our minds. It creates positive pathways in our brains. Our attitudes blossom. Satisfaction and happiness can result. Positive thinking does work wonders.

Be your child's role model. Teach her to find the good in others. It's powerful and will make her world a happier place.

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Jean Tracy

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"Nobody likes me."

This sad boy talks to himself constantly. He tells himself self-pity thoughts. Find out how to help him.
People talk to themselves a lot. Often, they’re not aware of what they tell themselves.
When their thoughts are happy and healthy, they feel strong and positive.
When their thoughts are sad and filled with self-pity, they feel weak and miserable.

 

You CAN help your child choose how to think.

How can you help your child become

a strong happy thinker? Here’s how:

Pick up your free Happy Thinker Exercise at https://www.KidsDiscuss.com  Insert the code word - THINKER and download your gift.

Like this post? Please comment and share it with your friends on social media.

Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

Sign up for my FREE Parenting Newsletter and receive:

• 80 Fun Activities to Share with Your Kids
• 101 Ways to Get Your Children to Cooperate