Creative Parenting Trick

You know those times when your child says something to you that may be appropriate but is on the fence of being disrespectful? Kids are great manipulators and they are at saying what they can get away with even though it may be disrespectful. Here are three questions to keep kids from becoming the smart mouth that drives you crazy!

1. "I'm not sure why you are talking that way?"
2. "O.k...let's start this conversation over again. Let's turn this around!" Now stand up, turn around and sit back down again and have your child do the same thing!

focus tips 011

Wondering Where I've Been?

Simply Siena is still in action but has a new site with a new name....Tickles and Time Outs! Make sure you subscribe to our blog, follow us on facebook or follow on Twitter!
See you there!!
www.ticklesandtimeouts.blogspot.com

A Great Cyber Monday Deal

You all know how much I love books and love to encourage children to read as well. Here are 2 awesome books that I think your kids will love at a great price only today!

Diary of a Wimpy Kid
$6.94
Children go crazy for this series which is well written and very fun!

Guinness Book of World Records 2011
$16.50
Don't you remember reading this as a kid and being so amazed? This is such a cool book that your child and you can share together on Christmas morning!

These books and more of mine and Sienna's favs are on my Amazon store:
http://astore.amazon.com/ticandtimou01-20?node=1&page=2

Is it ok to Use Santa as a Bribe?

Using Santa's gifts as an incentive for good behavior is very tempting this time of year. The question is, can threatening Santa's visit be a bad thing? Well, first of all, don't make promises you can't keep (IE. "If you are bad, Santa will not come!") Making those kinds of threats are unrealistic and not a fair punishment for bad behavior. Instead, focus on the true spirit of the holiday. If we focus too much on Santa and presents than we might be sending our children the message that presents are what's most important about the holiday. Instead, donate your time to a nearby organization or visit a nearby nursing home with your children to spend time with the residents or even sing some Christmas Carols. In my opinion, using Santa as an incentive is not a bad thing, as long as you are clear and don't make promises you can't keep. Encourage good choices by saying something like,"Remember, Santa is watching you!" but don't loose focus that these choices are good because it's the right thing (not just because Santa is watching!) In addition, Christmas is a great opportunity to read bible stories and learn about the true spirit of giving! The bottom line...encouraging good behavior for Santa's arrival here and there is OK but make sure you all also teach your children all the other reason to make good choices and the true spirit of giving.

Random Thoughts on Thanksgiving Morning

Well, I wasn't planning on writing today (thanksgiving morning) but I just put Sienna down for nap, hubby and house guests are out playing Turkey Day football and I am here all alone enjoying quiet moments by the fire. How sweet it is!

I talk about simplicity parenting quite a bit and Thanksgiving is the perfect day to truly practice it! I find myself sometimes getting worked up about family issues around the holidays (don't we all!?) wondering why people do things a certain way and the truth is....it's all just little stuff. I think about the people around the world who don't have a home, suffering with illnesses, and deaths, and I am reminded that I have so many blessings! In addition, I have many faults as well

Thanksgiving is a time to be truly grateful, put aside resentments, and focus on the savory food, the wonderful smells and the sweet sound of laughter. Hope you enjoy this wonderful day my awesome readers!

Check out this great tradition for Thanksgiving dinner...

Don't throw out the wishbone!! Hold the wishbone with a partner, make a wish, and whoever has the biggest part after the bone is broken will have their wish come true!

Hosting a Memorable Thanksgiving Dinner

1. If you are expecting children to come to your house, be prepared for them. Have a small table, some coloring books and small toys (maybe from the dollar store), and be prepared for a noisy evening!

2. Prepare as much food as you can the day before (that's today if anyone is paying attention!) so that you can spend time with your guests. Many people think that being a great hostess means having the best food but the truth is, being a great hostess means being able to entertain them and provide a relaxed atmosphere. Remember, not everything needs to be fancy!

3. Delegate. People love to help out. Plan ahead and try to visualize how you can organize the day/evening. What will you need help with the most. If your children are little, ask someone to color with them (break out a Christmas toy early if you need to!) or hire a mommy's helper for a few hours.

4. Leave dishes. The dishes will not rot. A good hostess will let the dishes sit and spend quality time with the family. Better yet, use paper plates!!

5. Enjoy yourself. Relax and enjoy this special time with friends and family. Plus, happiness is contagious and your guests will feel more at ease if you are having fun!

The Most Magical Gifts for Your Family

I don't believe that the magic of Christmas is created by what's under the tree. Instead, I believe that the true magic is what's created around the tree! Here are some special, fun, and family oriented gifts to make this Christmas the best one your kids have ever had!

1. Hobby related gifts Children find joy in things when they see us enjoying it! Share your love of trains, puzzles, or doll houses with your child. Whatever the skill or hobby that you enjoy, share your enthusiasm with you children! They will love having something that has a special connection to you.

2. Arts and crafts I distinctly remember getting my Spin Art Machine for Christmas and how much fun I had playing with it for hours and hours (they still make it by the way... it is listed on my amazon store link... http://astore.amazon.com/ticandtimou01-20/

Some people think that arts and crafts aren't for everyone but I disagree. I think everyone can find an artistic talent and enjoy making different things with different materials if they have someone helping and encouraging them!

3. Wii or Playstation These games are truly the ultimate game for family and friends of all ages. We have had so much fun with our wii and there are a gazillion games for all interests. From bowling to surfing, it's seriously hard to find a game for everyone! There is even boggle Yahtzee and battleship for some old school fun!

4. Musical Instruments or Rockband for Playstation I love music! My husband's family comes from a very musical family and I love how they enjoy sitting around singing together for hours on end. I realize this is not for everyone but Rockband usually appeals to most people! Gotta love it!

Not able to spend that kind of cash or don't have a Playstation or Wii? No worries! Check out some of the karaoke games on CD rom that are really reasonably priced and SOOO much fun!

5. Jewelry If you have a daughter and you want her to have a special piece of jewelry, start this great tradition. My friends went together and started the beginning of a pearl necklace for Sienna and the cool thing about it is that you can add them on special occasions. This is such a meaningful gift that I LOVE! http://www.addapearl.com/

5. Ice Cream maker What family doesn't love ice cream. Engage your family with this fun activity with such a yummy product to share! Check out this one on my Amazon store page http://astore.amazon/ticandtimou01-20

6. Special Books Find one of your favorite books as a child and give it to your child with a special message on the inside cover. This will be a treasure for years to come.

Looking for other meaningful gifts for your family? God to my Amazon store and search for every unique gift idea you can think of using age groups or special interests. You'll be sure to find the perfct gift at a reasonable price!

And of course, here's a few gifts YOU should ask for Christmas!

1. The Special Plate (which I have written about in a previous post) is one of my favorite gifts and I'm sure you would love it too. http://astore.amazon.com/ticandtimou01-20

2. A fun family board game is always a crowd pleaser and what could bring you more pleasure than spending hours of quality time with your family? Check out http://www.astore.amazon.comticandtimeou01-20/, then click on Toys and Games, then click on Top Family Board Games. Here, you will find a great list for you to choose from (based on the customer's favorites!)

3. Want to give back to others this holidays season? Here's a program that allows you to donate money to a Mom in Mozambique that is striving to start a business to feed her children. How cool is that? Check it out here www.groupon.com/deals/kiva/national.com Ask your family to make a donate for you and give you a certificate for recognition!

The Perfect, Simple Thanksgiving Recipe

This recipe is so yummy and easy! You will have everyone asking for the recipe!

BAKED YAMS

(tastes like pumpkin pie!)

Ingredients:

1 40 oz. can of yams

2 eggs

1/4 cup sugar

1/4 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp allspice

1/8 tsp ground cloves

1/8 tsp nutmeg

3/4 cup evaporated milk

1/4 stick of butter, melted



Directions:

Preheat oven to 375. Mix togehter ingredients. Pour into casserole dish and bake uncovered for 40-50 minutes. You'll see cracks in the yams when they are done cooking! SIMPLY TASTY!

Being the CEO of your Household

Being a Stay at Home mom is definetly not an easy job! One thing that I find extremely helpful to stay happy as a Stay at Home mom is to view my stay at home status as a profession. The word profession is defined as a job that has duties and results in a payment or a return of some kind. Technically, if I wasn't at home with our daughter, we would be paying for childcare so in a way, I am being reimbursed in the big picture. Not only that, but my reimbursement is watching my daughter smile, give hugs, and learn new things.

When I see my stay at home mom role as a job, I am better able to handle stressors and stay professional. I know that the word professional sounds weird but it is really important to not take things personally and stay focused on the responsibilities at hand. As much as I love being able to give my daughter hugs and kisses all the time (and I do!) it's nice to also step away and just do my job!


Next, any CEO of a successful company will tell you that organization is very important. Your home is no different and needs to have systems, goals, and rewards.

Having goals as a stay at home mom can help you to stay focused.

Having a schedule is SOOOOO important. My schedule is pretty flexible but I definitely prioritize eating and sleeping times for the kiddos. Having a schedule is very important for helping everyone understand what is expected of them and when and even help us to stay focused. Children respond very well to routine and time frames.

Create a support system for yourself.

This is SOOOO important and is so often overlooked! In any job setting, people have mentors, supervisors, and coworkers...you should too! Set yourself up with a friend that you respect and admire and make you set up times to talk to them about issues and struggles or just listen as they go through the same things you do. I am really big on scheduling (on the calendar) 'moms night out' or dinners with a friend at LEAST once every 2 weeks...this can really be a sanity saver!

Take a Personal Day

If you work hard during the day, accomplishing your goals, and keeping a happy healthy home then you should have no guilt about taking a day to yourself. Every job as personal days and you should too!

Get out of your sweatpants.

Every office has a dress code to make people appear and feel professional. There's the old saying that you should "dress the part" if you want to succeed at something. Sometimes it's the little things that can help you feel more important and give you motivation throughout your day. Get out of your sweatpants and put on something that makes you feel like you look nice and it might be enough to help you feel good about yourself when you walk past the morror. (by that I mean jeans and a sweater-let's be real!)

Picture yourself as the person you want to become. If being a stay at home mom is something you truly want, take the time to create the role you wish to attain and set yourself up with all the tools you need to make it happen!

WE LOVE FALL!!!

Playing in the leaves.....

LOTS OF LOVE......

and kisses.....

Getting Your Love On

Check out this awesome guest writer we have today!
Michele Paiva has worked as an author, radio host, yoga instructor, and wellness coach. I am so excited to have her share her ideas with my readers....hope you enjoy!


This is the time of year when though we claim to be festive more than ever, we are actually a society filled with increased depression, stress, anxiety and weight gain.

Lead with your heart, and get your love on...

Not love for others-you are probably focusing too much on making others happy right now and that is what got you into this mess (or what WILL get you into that mess!). Instead, focus on loving yourself more. Take yourself to the next level; instead of focusing externally focus internally. Transform your anxiety and stress to energy, and banish depression and combat weight gain with commitment to yourself.

Think about your past, and heal your childhood and relationship wounds so that you can activate undeveloped potential and increase your ability to cope, love yourself, and thus handle the holiday season with an embrace not a grimace.

It sounds elementary, and it is; but it is often overlooked. We say things like "make time for yourself" as if one need to schedule sanity into our hectic life....that shouldn't be the way it is! You should be focused on your time all the time, and make time for OTHERS!

Schedule others - yes even your children.

I am a homeschooling mother of two; one is in college, the other in 11th grade. I love them with all my heart but I also have boundaries, and those boundaries are respected and learned, and they too focus on helping themselves before reaching out to help another. I am all for that attitude.

Most people who are very at peace and happy with simple are able to walk away or deflect that behavior, but those who are less at peace, are more vulnerable to this, and so the cycle continues within themselves. When you focus on your own needs and meet them (and trust me, a lot men and women really need to not feel guilt on this one!) you will harness energy that is second to none.

When you are stressed or depressed you are not as strong, even immunity-wise, it is easier to catch a cold or flu, and to catch a "mood", in that I mean you will if stressed or depressed, be more likely to absorb someone else's negative emotions or cranky outlook, even their tension.

It's really all about focus.

One way to really show the day down, increase potassium (which is so important when speaking about stress) and give yourself some aroma therapy as a boost, it is simply to make this recipe. Share it with others but first, and foremost, have some for YOU!!

Michele's Oat-Pumpkin Autumn LOVE-ON....served warm ;)

A small can of pumpkin filling or puree

Three cups of oat milk (you may use more if you have more of a crowd, it will just be less thick but still packed with flavor)

A pinch of salt (I use ionized since I don't eat seafood much and I want to ensure thyroid health)

A pinch of Cinnamon

A pinch of Clove

A dash of Vanilla

Mix all of the above well and then put on stove on medium heat, stirring frequently, until steam rises.

Serve warm.

This recipe is healthy, increases focus and relaxation, celebrates the season, and it's a great way to show yourself a little love!

Have an idea for stress reduction you want to share?? Post and share http://www.loseyourfinattitude.com/

Saving Money for the Holidays

What is the best way to save money for your family? Cutting coupons, finding sales and shopping at yard sales are great ways to curb spending but it is still "money out" instead of money that we could be keeping in our pockets.

Winter is approaching and we often think about recharging our cold spirits by buying a new latte at Starbucks, going to the spa, or having dinner out with our friends. All of these things are great, but think of how much space they take in our budget. If we can truly find enjoyment in ourselves than we will REALLY save big bucks while teaching our children to not be materialistic and find enjoyment in the simple things in life.

If we turn on the t.v or look in our children's classrooms, we will quickly see how materialistic our society has become. I admit, I am constantly challenged by trying to avoid shopping for the latest shoes or fantasizing about going to the nicest spa for a pedicure. But if we really try to focus on creating the greatest MEMORIES, we can quickly learn that the best things in life really are free! Here's an example.

As mothers, finding time to relax and unwind is priceless, right? Here's an idea for you that doesn't cost a dime. Find a quiet, relaxing space in your home to call your own (a favorite chair, the bath tub, or even in bed if you find that relaxing) Set up a little area with a favorite candle, prepare a cup of tea and put on your favorite p.js. Sound inviting yet? Good, I'm not finished!

Next, I want you to find a favorite magazine or book and take half an hour (or more!) to just have YOU time. Recharge your battery and energize your soul! Think about the money you are saving by creating a mommy moment without shopping or spending on dinner out, manicures, etc.! Don't get me wrong, there are definitely times when a mom should splurge on herself- but using moderation and finding thrills in your own home will not only save you money but help you find balance during difficult times (especially those times when you don't have money!)

Using Guided Imagery to Help Your Family

Guided imagery is an amazing tool for creating the life you want. Research has proven again and again that our imagination can help us build our own realities. What is that you want? What kind of family do you want to have? When you are old and sitting on a rocking chair, what kind of family to you want to come visit you?

Do you think it sounds sound corny or silly? Maybe, but chat with some athletes that have won races, people who have overcome illnesses, or people who have lost a lot of weight and you will quickly learn that guided imagery is a powerful tool. Whether these people realize it or not, they have used guided imagery (in some form or another) to attain the goals they have set. In other words, they become the person they want to be.

Can we turn our worries into dreams?

I am a women, therefore I worry (I think it goes along with the territory!) but I really think that worries can be our own worst enemy. Don't get me wrong, listening to our intuition (and taking time to listen to what is best for us is a good thing) but when these thoughts of doing what's best turn into worries, it really doesn't help us and instead drags us down; preventing success.

Instead, if we take the time to listen to our intuition, then visualize the life we want we will inevitable (almost effortlessly) create the life we want. It's SIMPLE. If you believe in yourself and take baby steps you will be moving in the direction of your goals and dreams.

Are you ready to make it happen? Try these simple steps one or 2 times a day (or whenever you want!) and watch your dreams become a reality.

1. Picture your family doing the things that you wish would change (ex. fighting, sadness, or illness).

2. Next, picture yourself throwing that picture away.

3. Create a new family portrait in your imagination with the family that you wish to become.

4. Take baby steps to move toward that image.

Interested in learning more about guided imagery? Check this out: www.holisticonline.com/guided-imagery.htm

5 Simple Ideas to Make Trick or Treating a Success!

Halloween is a very fun time of year but it can also be tiring, expensive, and full of drama. Don't let this happen to you! Planning ahead can prevent meltdowns, hurt feelings, and exhaustion. Follow these simple rules (plus be safety conscience!) and you will have an awesome evening with your little ones!

1. Keep your eye on the clock. If your children are young, get them started early and home early so they don't get too tired and end up miserable. Be realistic about your expectations and plan on one parent taking a young child home early if necessary so that older children can still enjoy themselves. Remember, you want it to be a positive experience for everyone, not a nightmare! As Kenny Rodgers says, "Know when to fold em, know when to walk away!"

If your kid is over 13, don't allow them to Trick or Treat. It is a little upsetting for a 13 year old to be told that they can't trick or treat anymore but it is necessary to set limits. Trick or treating is really for small kids. If you have an older child, engage them in the fun by having them give out candy and encourage them to dress up if they would like to. For crying out loud, keep your kid inside after the trick or treating hours are over, don't let you kid be one of the kids that are way too old knocking on doors after hours!

2. Prioritize what's important. Focus on how a child rocks the costume instead of who has the neatest one. I remember my brother was devastated one year because someone else at school made an R2D2 costume that was "better" then his. Focus on having good manners and having fun instead of how much candy they got and your child will have an enjoyable Halloween. Remember, it's not a competition-it's about having fun with your neighbors and family.

3. Dress your Children in Layers. Halloween weather is always tricky and can really turn trick or treating into a disaster if your not prepared. Watch the weather closely and dress your kids in an extra layer under their costume if needed.

4. Preset your children. Trick or treating is a very exciting night but it only happens once a year. Talk to your kids about expectations before leaving the house since they may not remember what it's like or know what to expect. Talk to them about manners and be clear about the plan for the evening. Give examples of what kind of things could happen and quiz them on what they will do if that occurs (example..."People may not know what you are since your character is a little unknown. What will you tell them if they ask?" or "What happens if someone offers candy that you don't like?" This will help them know what to say when the time comes.

5. Set clear candy rules and stick to them. If your child is a kid that will consume half a bowl of candy in one sitting, set some rules and stick to them. Put out other yummy alternatives for you and the kids to snack on before you are tempted to eat candy.

Finally, have fun. When you're having fun, your kids will too!

Making Mealtimes Memorable

There are so many ways to show your child that they are loved and mealtimes are a great chance to do that. Using your creativity to show your love can provide your kids with wonderful memories that they can cherish into adulthood. Here are a few ideas to get you started..

1. Own a Special plate. My mom had this cool plate for us while we were growing up and I loved it. We got the privilege of using the special plate whenever we did something good (good grade, birthday, or just for the heck of it!) I always love this tradition and use it with my family now. You can buy it online http://www.redplatestore.com/ or make your own at a pottery store.

2. Make Special Dinners Part of your Weekly Schedule. I would love to say that my family eats at the table every night but that would be a lie. It's not something we do at this point in time but but having a family dinner one night a week (Sunday is always a good day) is a great way to show family values are a priority in your family. Picking a certain day and sticking to it allows your kids to know when to expect it and even get excited about it.

3. Engage Children in the Process. If you plan ahead, you can ask your kids to pick a meal and help you get the ingredients at the grocery store (and even help you stir or pour ingredients into the bowls). Another idea? Children of all ages seem to love making Place cards for other family members (or guests). Set your child up with materials to make place cards while you get dinner ready.

4. Theme Night. Pick a country such as Italy or Mexico and make a recipe from that county (don't worry-tacos or pizza is creative enough!) Bonus: Find a new word from that country and use it while you are having dinner!

5. Question game. This is something you can do every night. Get your kids talking by asking what is their least favorite part of their day and best part of their day.

Although all of these ideas are fun, the important thing is just being together. Remember, your kids (especially teenagers) might complain "UGH! family dinner is ridiculous!" but years from now they will look back with a smile and remember those special moments with family!

Seeking a Natural and Healthy Lifestyle for Your Family?

Someone from up above must be trying to send me a message today. I turned on the t.v this morning and watched as Dr. Oz was speaking about fat substitutes and non calorie sweeteners. Then, I see on the news yet another recall of Tylenol. It really makes me wonder how and why we get into the habits of looking for quick fixes so often when it causes so much damage to our bodies. It's really scary, and what's even more scary is the habits we're teaching out children.

Let's talk about food first. Billions of dollars are poured into research of processed foods every year, yet obesity in adults and children is at an all time high. Does that make sense? It seems to me that if we slow down and truly enjoy nature's natural sweeteners then we really don't need to drink 5 cups of coffee with artificial sweeteners and can instead enjoy one or two cups with a little bit of sugar. Instead of 3 huge scoops of sugar free ice cream, why not enjoy 1 scoop of natural ice cream? We've created these habits of eating constantly and not working it off enough. Do we want to pass these attitudes and behaviors down to our children? I don't!

What about all the pain medications? It's the ninth time (in a year) that Johnson and Johnson have recalled Tylenol. Could it be that we are complicating our lives by trying to find quick fixes to our ailments (and our children's ailments) instead of using some natural remedies?

I believe everything in moderation is beneficial for my health and wellness, but I really wonder what our children and grandchildren are going to say about the things we consume and the lifestyles that we choose. I have a lot to learn when it comes to natural remedies and holistic medicine but it's looking more appealing than ever right now!

I am opening the door to any ideas and suggestions that anyone can throw my way on the subject! Anyone?

Stay at Home Mom, Working Mom, or Part Time Working Mom?

These are some of the hardest decisions we have to make but we often make it harder than it needs to be! If we follow our intuition and let go of the guilt, we can be happy no matter what we decide (and so can our children!)...it's that simple. If you are struggling with whether you should go back to school, work, or quit your job and stay home with the kids...here are some ideas that may help you out with your decision.


Should you work full time?

Being a stay at home mom is not for everyone and if it's not for you, you certainly shouldn't feel bad about it! I feel so bad hearing women (or men) who are unhappy staying at home with their children. Everyone goes through rough days (maybe even a week) but if you are finding yourself unhappy for extended periods of time, think of some other options. If most of the following statements match your feelings, perhaps it's time to go back to work, go back to school, or work part time.


1. You are going into debt because you can't afford to pay your bills.

2. You are not known to be very patient.

3. You miss your old job constantly.

4. 10 minutes of duck duck goose is enough to drive you into the grave.

5. The thought of repeating the same thing 55 times a day is less than enticing.

6. You think a play date is the worst possible thing you could do with your time.

7. You constantly miss the lifestyle you had while you were working.

8. You find yourself moody and resentful of the life your significant other has outside the home.

9. If you hear Elmo's laugh one more time, you might punch yourself in the face.

10. You have found your passion/niche (and it doesn't involve being a stay at home mom!)

Should you work Part Time? New research indicates that moms that work part time are the happiest because they have their time away but don't feel overwhelmed by trying to do everything. If the following statements match your feelings, it may be time to look into a part time job or even going back to school.

1. You have to work to pay the bills (and by bills I mean mortgage, utilities, or car payments). You hate constantly worrying about how you're going to pay the electric bill.

2. You miss getting out and feeling like an adult.

3. You would like to make a little extra money for a nice pair of boots you've been eyeing up.

4. You enjoy staying at home (most of the time) but sometimes feel chained to the house and need a break.


Should you stay at home full time?

1. You truly enjoy playing hide n seek, duck duck goose, and reading Elmo books (it's not for everyone after all)

2. You enjoy being creative and finding new games to play.

3. Coloring and crafts are a hobby of yours.

4. You often find yourself singing Barney songs.

5. The thought of working full time and letting someone else take care of your child makes you feel ill.

6. You feel like staying at home with the kids is what you were meant to do.

Whatever choice you make, the important thing is to feel confident in your decision and not carry around guilt. Also, it's enough to know that you are a good mom if you are able to pay your bills, keep your children in a safe and fulfilling environment (even if it's not with you!), and still be true to yourself!

5 Simple Questions to Show Your Child they are Loved

1. "Have I told you lately that I love you?"
2. "Which way would you like to do your chores...wearing your cool shoes or without them?"
3. "I am not sure why you are talking to your sister that way?"
4. "Can you tell me more about that?"
5. "When did you learn to do that, can you teach me?"

Dealing with a Difficult Teacher

Let's face it, it's a part of life. You're child will have over many teachers in his or her life and they will not all be good! However, if we view bad teachers as a learning experience, our children will become more resilient and successful overall. Here's how...

1. Communicate Remember, your child only offers one side of the story and your child may be leaving important information out of the story. Talk to your child's teacher politely and find out the whole story. Try to put yourself in the teacher's shoes. The teacher may be new, going through a difficult time in their personal life, or have other information about the situation.

2. Setting boundaries. Be your child's advocate. If there are issues that you are concerned about, don't be afraid to address the situation with the teacher and ask for follow up. If the issue still isn't resolved, look for other options such as talking to a principal about the problem. If that doesn't work, you may need to speak to someone even higher up the chain. Just think carefully and have a plan before acting out in anger. Remember, your child may need to be in the classroom for many more months and you want to make the situation better (not more difficult) for them.

3. Show Respect. Although you may not like your child's teacher, you still need to be respectful. (This may require biting your tongue in front of your child!) Even when you are home, avoid talking badly about the teacher in front of your child.

4. Be positive. Making the best of the situation will help your child overcome the situation and allow them to focus on the what's really important....school work. It will also encourage them to overcome the situation instead of being the victim.

Avoiding difficult people doesn't solve problems and can lead to negative self esteem in children. Instead, teach your children to use the tools they have to overcome their struggles and allow these experiences to be a positive experience instead of a negative one. Try not to focus too much on the problem and instead focus on the schoolwork, reminding your child that your teacher is there to teach not to be your friend. Overall, your child will walk away from this experience with a new lesson in their pocket and a better view on education.