How not to exasperate your children

Expectations: Be clear and consistent about what you expect from your kids.

VeX: Say what you need to say once, firmly. Carrying on about it becomes vexatious and counterproductive.

Age Appropriate: Don’t ask your child to do things that are beyond their developmental abilities.

Scare: Don’t scare your children with empty threats . . . say what you mean and mean what you say!

Positive: Positive reinforcement of good behaviour is almost always more effective than negative consequences for misbehaviour.

Embarrass: Don’t embarrass your children; correct them quietly and privately to preserve their dignity and communicate your respect.

Ride: Children need plenty of gentle reminders, warnings and cues, but don’t ride their case or they will be discouraged.

Anger: Anger spawns anger. If you discipline with anger, it will make your child angry – and then all you have is two angry people! Model control, mom and dad!

Teasing: What seems funny to you may feel like a put-down to your child. Be careful about teasing. 

Encourage: Always let your child know you believe in them and want to draw out the best from them!