The Power of "Yet"

The word 'yet' can be incredibly powerful. If your child says, "I can't do this," add the word 'yet' to the end of the sentence. It transforms a statement of defeat into one of growth.

For other ideas about promoting positive thinking, check out the article "Fostering School Success By Encouraging a Growth Mindset". 

Fostering Growth using the Mentoring Parenting Style

What is your normal parenting style?  Do you give your kids orders?  Do you do a lot of things for them that they are capable of doing themselves?  Do you often give in to avoid fighting?

Your parenting approach plays a significant role in your children's development.  Read "Fostering Growth using the Mentoring Parenting Style" to learn more.  

Sugared Cereal Is Not Healthy For Kids

Did you know that sugared cereals have more sugar per serving than frosted cakes or donuts? Yikes!

Dr. Michael Greger's article, "Are Fortified Children’s Breakfast Cereals Just Candy" states 

"Children who consume pre-sweetened breakfast cereals may derive more than 20 percent of their daily calories from added sugar. Breakfast cereals rank as the third-largest food source of added sugars in the diets of kids and adolescents, listed between candy and ice cream. On a per-serving basis, a cereal like Frosted Flakes has more added sugar than a frosted chocolate cake, a brownie, or a frosted donut."

Sugar consumption is linked to physical and mental health issues in kids.  Choosing a less sugary way to start the day is a step in the right direction! 

Warnings About the Troubled Teen Industry

Is your teen presenting extremely challenging behavior? If you feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to help your teen, getting professional help is wise.

You love your children and want the best for them. Taking parenting classes can certainly prepare you for handling typical teen challenges. However, sometimes parents and caregivers turn to residential treatment programs designed for troubled teens. This is a multi-billion dollar industry in the United States with very little regulation.  The lack of regulation has led to serious abuse and even death of teens.  

Unsilenced.org is exposing some of the serious problems within the troubled teen industry.  Watch this video for a brief overview of the issues.  

Protecting Kids From Social Media Harms

Social media can be a great way for kids to connect with friends, but it can also be a source of stress and anxiety. As parents there's some important information you need to know about social media and the mental health of your kids. 

In May 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General released a report on Social Media and Youth Mental Health that identified several problems with how kids are using social media. The report stated that excessive use of social media can lead to depression, anxiety, and even suicide among teens and young adults. 

Watch this video to understand some of the risks identified in the report plus learn tips on how to keep your kids safer online.  

Create the Perfect Summer Plans for Your Family! 🗺️🚀🌟

What will your kids be doing during summer break? Plan now for fun and engaging activities that will create lasting memories for your family. Figure out how to use this unstructured time for growth rather than trouble!

Find Out More: Turning Summer Boredom into Opportunities to Grow (pricelessparenting.com)

Monitoring Moods Before And After Digital Activities

Do your kids enjoy spending time on digital activities like playing video games, watching videos or scrolling through Instagram? What do you notice about your kids' feelings and behavior after they've played a video game or been online?

Are they in a better mood or a worse mood? Do they feel more tired or more energized? Do they have difficulty focusing on other things, or do they seem to be able to concentrate better?

Do they get angry or frustrated at little things that would normally not bother them? When the digital activity is leading to a decrease in their well-being, it's time to make a change.

If you want help learning to set healthy limits for your kids, take a Priceless Parenting class. You’ll learn how to help your kids develop a healthy relationship with technology, and you’ll also get support from other parents who are trying to do the same thing.