Some children demand constant attention and will not take "no" for an answer. Just as children need to learn the importance of saying “please” and “thank you,” they need to learn how to appropriately make requests. If you're the parent of a demanding child, rest assured that this is not a new problem and there... Read more »
Over the years, many parents in blended families have come to me about stepchild disrespect. In some cases, their stepkids didn't respect them, and in others, their biological child didn't respect their new spouse. Often, the kids were rude or obnoxious, saying things like, "You're not my father; I don't have to listen to you!"... Read more »
Every child feels like they don’t fit in at some point. And with kids, the need to be part of a group is instinctual. It’s survival in their world. They want to fit in and be like everyone else because it gives them a sense of safety and security. So when your child tells you... Read more »
From young children to teens, James Lehman, MSW explains why your child is in trouble if he or she uses anger and acting out behavior to control others. When children use anger to get what they want, it can feel for all the world like they're pointing a loaded weapon at you. As a parent, you... Read more »
The idea that a kid is responsible for things is not inborn—it doesn't just happen by itself. It needs to be taught, coached, and learned. In some ways, it's no mystery: kids are born with no responsibilities, and everything they do is by instinct. They cry when they're hungry or want something, and they go to... Read more »
The word "spoiled" is a loaded term, one that has many levels of meaning for us as parents. You may envision a nagging in-law saying your children are "spoiled," you may remember a kindly grandparent "spoiling" you as a young child, or an unruly, "spoiled" kid you see in the ... Read more »
If your child acts out in public, and you don't respond effectively, your child learns they can blackmail you and hold you hostage with their behavior. Their mindset is, "Give me my way or face my acting out." Their behavior may involve yelling, screaming, and tantrums. It may be angry faces and a disgusted tone, disrespectful... Read more »
In Part II of James Lehman, MSW’s series on episodic childhood depression, he’ll discuss concrete ways you can teach your child coping skills. If your child seems distressed, despondent or sad for a prolonged period of time, have them seen by someone with diagnostic skills. Be sure to have a pediatrician rule out any underlying... Read more »
Part one of a two part series by James Lehman, MSW, on kids and episodic depression. Note from James: In our culture, sadness and depression have become almost interchangeable terms. In this article, we’re going to use the term “episodic depression” when referring to a level of sadness that children experience that interferes with their functioning. Almost... Read more »
Sibling rivalry is normal in families with more than one child. On the surface, you have two kids who are at war. They constantly bicker and don't get along. There can be many reasons for sibling rivalry, but at the core of this rivalry is a common theme that one sibling feels as if he... Read more »