Category: behaviour
Alternatives to rewards systems
Last week, I talked about whether we should be rewarding children for their behaviour. We looked at why so-called Reward Charts can be ineffective in the long term, even though they may be a quick fix. After a while, the child either gets bored or the stakes increase and they […]
To reward or not to reward?
For many years, “reward charts” were very common among parents. It was a way to motivate children to behave in certain ways, but the difficulties with this approach are: We are not looking at or acknowledging what our child is feeling, what their struggles are and understanding what is behind […]
Exercise for children
Exercise is very important for both children and adults. Developing these habits early on can help ensure it becomes a part of everyday life, supporting growth and development throughout childhood. Here is a guide to help you know how much exercise your child should be getting and why. Babies Even […]
Sibling rivalry
Sibling rivalry is natural and to be expected. Children want to be the centre of your attention and find it difficult to adjust when a new baby comes along. There can be plenty of conflict, particularly when children are close together in age, as your older child is unable to […]
An exploration of Children’s Mental Health
As many of you who have read my blog before will know, I am passionate about Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing for children and adults. I believe that if we can create a positive emotional connection, particularly between parents and their children, this paves the way for their development to […]
The dangers of Helicopter Parenting
As parents, we want to protect our children and create a loving and happy environment to grow up in. However, sometimes parents can be too protective and supportive and, in these cases, can have a negative impact on the child’s development as they get older. When your child is a […]
Struggles with toddlers and the arrival of a new baby
Meltdowns and emotional overloads are commonplace with toddlers. They lack the brain maturity and ability to regulate their emotions. Common reactions are: Tantrums Pushing Limits/ challenging behaviours Hitting Screaming Not engaging with parent Now add a new baby in to the family and things are much more difficult to deal […]
Overwhelming childhood emotions
When children are struggling with their emotions, and have become overwhelmed, we need to give them a safe space and time to calm down. This might mean moving them to a different room or area to keep your child and others safe, particularly if they or others are getting hurt. […]
Tantrums and Meltdowns – 5 things you need to know and information about some online sessions
If you have a toddler or a preschooler in your home then I would be confident that at some time, probably many times, you have been faced with your child having a Tantrum. It can be frustrating, annoying and upsetting to see your child fall apart in front of you […]
Responding to crying
Are you jolted by your baby’s slightest expression of discomfort or dismay? Is your natural instinct to do anything in your power to stop your baby crying? When their cries aren’t easily settled, it can be unnerving, frustrating and you can feel like a complete failure. You may shush, jiggle, […]