Q&A: Picky Eater Picks on Siblings, Entitled Kids & Tantrums, Won’t Show Math Work, Bad Manners
Calm Parenting Podcast
Deep Dive
Why is it important to set clear expectations and enforce them rigidly when giving a child a smartphone?
Screens can quickly become addictive, leading to issues like poor attitude and declining grades. Clear, rigid rules help prevent these problems and ensure safety online.
How can parents help a picky eater without creating stress at mealtime?
Allow children to be particular about their food but establish house rules like no sugar or excessive carbs. Encourage them to learn cooking skills and prepare their own meals within these guidelines.
What should parents consider when a sibling starts picking on a younger child?
Address the behavior subtly by pointing out positive traits and suggesting that picking on others often stems from feeling insecure. Offer to help without making a big deal out of it.
Why might a child refuse to show their work in math class even if they get the answers right?
Some children see patterns and solve problems intuitively without following a traditional process. Forcing them to show work they didn't use can be frustrating and seem arbitrary.
How can parents reset expectations if they've allowed their kids to become entitled?
Be clear about new expectations, apologize for creating false ones, and endure short-term tantrums without giving in. This helps reset behavior patterns in the long term.
What are some key character attributes parents should focus on instead of just manners?
Attributes like leadership, courage, initiative, critical thinking, compassion, and self-control are more important. These build inner strength and reduce behavioral issues.
How can parents model good behavior to prevent taking stress out on their kids?
Practice patience and kindness, even in small daily interactions. For example, letting someone cut in front of you in traffic can teach kids about prioritizing others and taking control of one's emotions.
- Acknowledge children's food preferences but establish household guidelines.
- Teach children to prepare their own meals within acceptable guidelines.
- Offer independence as a solution to picky eating, allowing children to prepare their own meals.
Shownotes Transcript