by smaclaughlin | Jul 31, 2017 | advocacy for children, parenting, power
My name is Sarah and I’m a worrier. I hate that I worry, but it’s just the truth. I worry about my people, and your people too. Because as Sister Glennon says, “there’s no such thing as other people’s children.” That’s why I care about how you are parenting your...
by smaclaughlin | Feb 18, 2017 | developmental expectations, discipline, family, humor, my life, perspective, poop
One of my Facebook friend’s posted this pic from her kids’ Bananagrams game a couple months ago. So great, right? I mean, “penis-poop-they-eat-toot-but” simply can’t be beat. The best part was that the mom was most upset that they spelled...
by smaclaughlin | Jul 22, 2016 | books, cooperation, developmental expectations, discipline, emotional intelligence, handling meltdowns, power, problem-solving
“It’s time to leave now.” “NO!” “Take my hand so we can cross the street.” **sits down on sidewalk and refuses to move OR runs out into road without taking hand** What is WITH these little people who just. don’t....
by smaclaughlin | Oct 14, 2015 | discipline, emotional intelligence, perspective, power, problem-solving
“He’s always grabbing for power,” “She wants to control everything,” “I have to show them who’s boss!” I hear statements like this from parents a lot. Our cultural environment doesn’t help; with its unrealistic expectations and tendency to judge how well a parent...
by smaclaughlin | Aug 12, 2015 | brain development, discipline, power, problem-solving
“Instead of assuming a power stance, a parent can become a problem-solving facilitator.” – Janet Gonzalez-Mena I’ve written about power before, but it keeps coming up. I get calls from parents who want help with discipline, handling meltdowns, and...