Antibullying – Turning Cautious Kids into Courageous Helpers

10 Child Sayings
 
Self-Talk Influences Thoughts, Feelings,
and Behaviors

Bully prevention by playground kids takes bravery and positive thinking. This blog tells you how. You will find 3 discussion dilemmas and a gift of 10 positive slogans to help your child choose right over wrong. Your right-minded kid could become a playground hero.

Parents tell kids, “Don’t slump! Straighten up!” Sagging shoulders with head down look sad, weak and are targets for bullies.

 

Sad Boy (3) 600
 
Slumped Shoulders and
Head Down = Bully
Target

 Our body’s trunk, keeps our shoulders straight. A straight body with head up looks strong and confident. Practice standing with your child. Teach your youngster to keep trunk, head, and shoulders straight.

Your Child’s Mindset

You can teach your child to strengthen her mindset by teaching right from wrong. Mindsets include thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Kids who know the difference between right and wrong and choose what’s right have strong characters. Help your child think ahead and prepare to act. Problem dilemmas like these 3 bullying situations can do just that.

The Playground Bully 

Boy Bully 745
 
Playground Bully

John is big and strong. He wants kids to know it. Joey is little. His posture looks wimpy.

  1. Is it OK for John to physically shove and punch Joey? Why?
  2. How would you feel if you were Joey?
  3. Should you and other kids stand by and let John bully Joey? Why?
  4. Would you do this or something else that helps the victim?                             
Boy Pfotecting Girl 757
 
How Would You Help a Victim?

Determine if your child’s mindset is strong. Does he choose right over wrong? Unassertive kids might say, “I don’t know” or shrug their shoulders. Their parents have work to do.

Sarcastic Bully

Sarcastic Bully 513
 
Sarcastic Bully

 Gina has a big mouth. She’s funny and sarcastic. Tammy is shy and quiet. Her shoulders slump.

  1.  Is it OK for Gina to make fun of Tammy and put her down? Why?
  2. How would you feel if you were Tammy?
  3. Would you join the other kids and laugh at Tammy?
  4. What would you do?
  5. Is there a way to help Tammy? How?
    Asian tattling 450
     
    Would You Get Help from a Teacher?

If your child is clueless, you need to work on her mindset.

The Tormenting Bully

Bully Tormentor 450
 
Lucas Wants Gail's Attention

Lucas is your friend. Lucas pesters girls by teasing, pulling hair, and tripping.

Lucas has a crush on Gail and wants her attention. Gail has long braids. Lucas yanks them. Gail shouts, “Stop it!” At other times, Lucas says, “You’re so stuck up.” Gail walks away. When Lucas tripped Gail and she fell, he laughed.

  1. How would you feel if you were Gail?
  2. What would you like to tell Lucas?
  3. Would you keep him for a friend?
  4. Would you help Gail? How?
Black Boy Non-Bully SMALL
 
Would You Yell, "Lucas, Stop!"

 

Your child’s answers tell you a lot. Does he know the difference between right and wrong? Do you need to guide his mindset?

How to Teach Right and Wrong - 3 Keys

These three ways will help you coach your child:

  1. Ask him about his feelings regarding a troubling situation. Does he feel for the victim or the bully?
  2. Question his thinking about the bullying. 
  3. Probe about his behaviors. Would he help the bully or the victim?

Empathic kids with right-minded thoughts will rescue victims.

Thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are the three elements that create a weak or solid character. If your child chooses what is right, his/her mindset is solid.

If not, use friendly discussions by asking questions, listening well, and giving your opinion last. Don’t force your ideas, just express them. Otherwise, your child may rebel.

I invite you to use the above 3 discussion dilemmas.

Here are the 10 self-talk sayings to help your child deal with bully situations. You can also teach your child to make their own self-talk sayings.

Indian Boy Powerpt.
 
10 Free Slogans to Discuss with Your
Kids
Insert gift code
 SLOGANS and download your gift.

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Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

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The Tattletale Tightrope: How to Teach Kids Social Awareness – Puzzle Time


The Tattletale Window to Social Awareness

Girl awed 450

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.

Family Talking
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.

A Girl with Hand UP 1000
 
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.

Mom or Teacher 1000
 
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: GS Strategy SMALL 450

  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!

 

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.


15 Engaging Car Chats for Your Family Vacations

Car Conversations 2 450
 
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.

Boy Watch Timing
 
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:

Boy Thinking Chin
 
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:

Girl looking up Thinking
 
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:

Mom
 
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:

Dad
 
 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.


Unplug and Connect: Rediscover the Magic of Family Time!

Dilemma Discussion Kit!

Asian Family Listening 1000
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.

Listen cell free zone 1000
 
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 Family 1003

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.

 

Timer Tomato 1000
 
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.

Black Boy Thinking
 
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: 

Bullying sibling 1000
 
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.

Listen Family 1009
 
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!

 

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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This Mom Can't Listen - 5 Harmful Mistakes, 5 Easy Solutions

1 mom and daughter
 
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:

Mom asking us to be quiet

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:

Black Dad Discussing
 
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?

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Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

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Parenting Tip List - Teaching Kids to Judge Character

Mother and Daughter Discussion 2

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?
Indian Boy Sad 450

  1. 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?
  1. Practice Praising a Classmate's Good Character:

 

Boy and Girl Praising 450
 
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.

 

 

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With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

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Family Vacations - 15 Conversations for Carefree Travelers

 

Family

Conversation starters are perfect for vacations. Children get to speak, and you get to hear what they really think. Your kids get to hear what you think too.

Boy watch time
 
"One, Two, Three -GO!"

 

Time how long each person speaks. One minute is good for starters. 

Rule: No interrupting!

The first speaker picks his conversation from an envelope (see below). No peeking!

 

Boy 800
 
This child is thinking before he speaks.

 

                  
 

The timer starts only when the speaker starts. When the speaker is finished, the group may ask him questions or give their opinions.

He then chooses the next person to speak. (Make sure everyone has a turn.)

 

Girl

 
This girl is visualizing her answer first.

 

If a member wants their turn to be a previous person’s topic, time them for one minute. Then that person picks the next speaker.

 

Mom
 
Mom is thinking whether to answer this question or the
previous one.

 

Note. The group can use the same conversation opener for everyone. Otherwise, each member can pick their own conversation. .

 

Dad
 
Dad is smiling as he thinks.

Suggestion:

Put the Conversation Starters in an envelope, purse, or backpack. Make them easy to find.

Whether you're going on a trip, a car ride, or a fun night at home, use these conversation openers. They're a great way to feel warm and cozy as a family. Remember, if f your having fun, your doing it right.

Get all 15 conversations starters. Insert code: CAR and download at www.KidsDiscuss.com  - They're FREE!

 

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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Content of Character - Teach Your Kids to Love Like This

Dr. MLK Love 800
 
"There's Something about Love that Builds Up and Is Creative."

Martin Luther King, Jr. wanted his four little children (and all people) judged by the "content of their character," not "the color of their skin." Dr. King believed in love not hate. Find out how character, judgment and love fit together in a way Dr. King might approve.

Effective parents teach children to judge. Not by skin color but by searching for the good.

Today, I’ll share how this love works through the story of Gabby, a family activity, and an activity that increases others’ self-esteem. It creates friendships too.

Practice it in your home. I guarantee it will boost your family’s love. Then watch it spread outward from your family to others.

Family Talk 1000
 
Dad, I like how you take the time to play UNO with me.

The Story of Gabby

(To protect privacy, all the names are changed because the people are real.)

Gabriella, 13 years-old, is taking a peer coaching class. She assists Mrs. Matlin, who teaches 10 special needs children, like:

  1. Daniel, who repeatedly runs around the room
  2. Lucas, who lets out blood curdling screams that make everyone jump.
  3. Olivia, who stutters and gets mad if asked questions she doesn’t want to answer.

 

  1. Bigstock-girl 25718705 500
     
    "I said, don't call on me.!"

 

Find out how Gabby's family activity influenced her with these special needs children. Then consider adopting their simple family ritual:

How Kids Judge Others by the "Content of Their Character"

Dr. King was right. "There is something about love that builds up and is creative." 

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Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

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Judging - Skin Color or Character? Teach Your Kids This

MLK leadership-g863c98947_900
 
How the Family Makes His Dream Come True

 

August 28, 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech. He told the crowd he wanted his four little children to be judged by the “content of their character,” not by the color of their skin.  You can make his dream come true.

Today, my new video will share 2 simple activities to teach your children. It promotes judging others in a way, I believe, Dr. King would approve.

Family Talk Asian 830

Teaching Children To Find the Good in Each Member

 

First Character Building Activity

Gather your family together once a week. Pick a member's name from a special bowl. Each member tells the person with the name they picked an honest compliment. What's this got to do with judging character and Dr. Martin Luther King?  'Judging' includes the good qualities you see in each other. 

Gabby 777
 
"Gabby, I like how nicely we talk to each other. You're
the best sister ever."

 

Second Character Building Activity 

Each member looks for the good in friends, classmates, and teachers. You'll see in the video how simple it is. Your children pay forward what they learned within your family. Imagine them sharing their experiences at your next family dinner.

Diverse Boys 900
 
Toby, your speech about Dr. King was so interesting.

 

Hopefully friends, classmates and teachers will also spread the good they find in others. Why? Because to 'judge' by looking for the good in others makes both the giver the receiver feel great.

It all starts in the family.

Enjoy this video now.  How Children Promote Dr. Martin Luther King's Dream

                                    

 

Like this post? Please comment and share it with your friends on social media. https://youtu.be/A3uC3JS9yFk

Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy, MSS

******

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How to Turn Your Moody Kids into Happy Children

 

 

Moody
 
How Moody Kids Become Happy Children

 

Your sulking child won’t talk. You ask yourself:

  1. Is she mad at me for saying, ‘No.”
  2. Did her brother tease her about the pimple on her chin?
  3. Has her best friend dumped her for a new girlfriend?

You can torture yourself or not.

Choose to teach your child good communication skills instead. Skills that help her talk about her problems before painful thoughts grip her mind.

Recycling resentment, hurt, fear, blame, and sadness can become your child’s lifelong habit. Recycling negative thoughts hurts. Talking about problems and solving them feels good.

The following solutions are for both girls and boys.

3 Ways to Rescue Kids from Moodiness

Black Dad Discussing with son
 
Listening Helps Kids Share Their Feelings

 

      1.Listening

        Good listening by parents builds trust. When children trust parents will hear their problems without arguing or criticizing, they talk.

        It takes many talks to teach children the communication skills they need. By listening well, parents are teaching good communication. Kids will learn to listen in return.

        Find a sample parent/child conversation that’s easy to use at Listening Chats.

  1. Repeating Motivational Sayings
Asian Mom and Daughter
 
Repeating Positive Sayings Motivates Kids

 

        Teach children through repetition. Use motivational thoughts for your child to absorb. Here are a few:

           “The most beautiful smile belongs to those who make others smile” Mahnoor Tahir

          “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.”  Mark Twain.         

          “The best sleeping pill is a clear conscience.” Dada J. P. Vaswani

Repeating upbeat motivational quotes helps your child remember them. They become her inner self-talk.

Get 5 more quotes that my mother used to motivate me. I passed them on to my children too. Family Sayings.

  1. Creating a Fun Home-life
Dad and Son Guitar 624
 
Family Music Night

 

  •  Once a week have a ‘Family Compliment Night.’
  •  Help kids ‘Write a Newsletter’ for your expanded family.
  • Each night Discuss One Act of Kindness each member did that day.

Pick up 5 more fun events for your family at Bright Attitudes

Conclusion: How to Help Your Moody Child

  1. Use conversations to teach good communication skills that solve problems.
  2. Repeat motivational quotes for kids to absorb.
  3. Put fun events into your family life.

For more in depth ideas go to:

How Parents Turn Dark Moods into Bright Attitudes

 

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

Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy, MSS

******

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  • 80 Fun Activities to Share with Your Kids
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The Patience Plan - Don’t Go Crazy When Kids Are Lazy

Don't Get Angry 450
 
You CAN Become a Patient Effective Parent

 

“My kids won’t help. They make me mad. I blow my stack.” Do you feel the same way?

The Patience Plan for Parents

1. Go outside. Breathe fresh air.

    Tell yourself, “I’m breathing patience in and blowing anger out.” Do this until you feel calm.

2. Get rational. Realize your kids are lazy for their own reasons. 

    a.Consider this belief: people do things for positive reasons. Even when they do wrong it’s for reasons that  benefit them.

    It’s the same with kids. Ask yourself, “What are they getting out of not doing their chores?”

    b. Could it be any of these:

  • They might want more playtime with friends or video games.
  • They might want more cell phone time.
  • They might want to relax after an exhausting day at school.

The best way to find out is to ask them. Why? Because we can’t know exactly what anyone is thinking. And that goes for our children too.

 

Latina Mom 450
 
Ask, Don't Tell.

 

  1. Discuss the situation with your kids. Find out what they want. Tell them what you want. Ask them, “How can we both win?” Brainstorm solutions together.

Calm rational parents get more cooperation from their children. Why? Because they take the time to understand their kids. They teach them the concept of “win-win” too.

 

For 9 More Ways to Deal with Lazy Children:

Calm Parent
 
You CAN Handle Lazy Kids with Patience

 Go to: https://www.KidsDiscuss.com

 

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

Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy, MSS

******

Sign up for my FREE Parenting News and receive:

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