Have you ever noticed that when your kid starts to escalate, you start to get dysregulated? Do you try to keep your rising anxiety or anger in check until it just boils over? Perhaps, when you can’t take it anymore you either yell, say something really harsh, give in, or become incredibly anxious, feel out-of-control, question your parenting skills and approach.

Having teens challenges you on so many deep levels. It is tough, yet can be incredibly rewarding. They have this push-pull dynamic where they want to assert their growing independence and new found freedoms, yet still need you. They can drive, hold down a job, and open a bank account with help, but still need you for money, guidance, and time with you. Plus, you now worry about their expanding freedom with driving, staying out later, and remembering all the things you taught them about safety, drugs, alcohol, and sex.

Toddlerhood can be tough! In this article you will learn effective ways to help your toddler cope with big feelings!

“I hate you. I don’t love you anymore.” Have you heard this from your child(ren)? How do you respond after they says something that is hurtful? Do you wonder what to say or do, so they don’t do this again? It is really hard when you hear these types of things from your child. We often personalize and attribute it to our parenting. You may ask or say things like, “What am I doing wrong,” “Where did I go wrong,” and/or “I have failed them.” Others may think what is wrong with my kid.