Friday, December 21, 2012

Holiday Cheer / Last Minute Gifts

It's a wet nasty day here in the Hudson Valley, but that's not going to bring me down.  After a quick run in the rain, I'm ready to deliver for you.  Now that the holidays are here we often get busier than ever.  Running from school event to school event, The infamous work party to friends parties, to shopping and getting our nails, hair done to look our best for those we love. (ok, not me)  With all this madness, don't let the holidays pass you by without remembering the reason you decided to start a family.  Allow yourself to go back to the roots of your relationship.  Spending time with loved ones, visiting family and friends that you have not seen in awhile, partaking in special fun activities with your children to carrying on traditions or starting new ones. Whatever your cup of cheer is just do it with your family.  

As my oldest is now 11 it really hits home to how fast the years are flying by.  I have loved them all and hope you do as well.
Happy Holidays
Todd

PS:  Looking for that last minute gift to give to a loved one.  If so then don't miss out on giving the gift that will give back day after day.  And to think it will cost you less than a cup of coffee at Starbucks.  SO STOP READING and click below for your copy of Three Step Parenting. located on the right hand side of the page.  Only $2.99 during the time of giving.

http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/

Are you still reading, go now and enjoy your holidays that much more.

http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/

Friday, November 9, 2012

It's Friday!! Friday!!

Gotta get down on Friday!!

It's a beautiful Friday here in the Hudson Valley and after just finishing a feel great trail run, I'm ready to get down to business.

Today is all about not beating yourself up as a parent. 
For example:   You wake up and start preparing for the day.  You have outfits laid out, breakfast on the stove, your prompting your children to get ready, they are responding well  and then it happens.  Your youngest spills juice all over the breakfast table,  If that's not bad enough, the juice spills on 2 of your children ruining their outfit for the day.  Back to the closets to find new outfits, the bathroom to wash off the sticky and now you are running behind to get your children to school, you to work and your day is now beginning to feel like a rush.  At the worst times we all know that feeling all to well.
The moral of the story is sometimes you can do everything right and the end result is just not what you were expecting or hoping.   This type of scenario happens to parents all the time.  Don't beat yourself up over it.  Children are always learning and following examples of their parents, teachers etc.  By not sweating the small stuff your child will learn and pick up on that message as well.  Twenty years from now are you going to remember being late to drop them off at school that one time or is your boss going to remember you were 10 minutes late to work.  Probably not. 
Be patient and enjoy the time you have being a parent.  The end result will be much more rewarding to all parties involved.

To a beautiful weekend coming up.
Todd




Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Tips from Todd

It is a sunny Fall day here in New York and I'm ready to deliver some great advice. 

Do you often find yourself repeating commands at your children.  Do this!! Do that!! with no response at all.  Asking five times within 5 minutes.   If so try this Nifty little tip.  1. Make sure you have your child's full attention.  2.  Make eye contact. 3.  Verbalize your directions on what it is you need your child to do.   4. Set the kitchen timer or any timer available for 3 to 5 minutes.  5.  Do nothing until the timer goes off.

Children as well as adults often need a time period to process the information  delivered to them.  This technique will take the pressure off of you harping and put success or failure on your child.  Practice this when you have enough time to discuss what it is you are doing.  Never practice when you are already in a rush.  After 8 to 10 times of practice and delivering you will find success.

Todd


Thursday, October 4, 2012

Good Morning

GOOD MORNING!!!
Finally, a great sun shiny day here in New York, With another action packed weekend with fun I will make this tip short and sweet. 

This may sound like an easy tip, but not always so. With that being said today's tip is to Wake Up With A Positive Attitude.

Greet each member of your family as they wake up with a smile, a hug and a GOOD MORNING Greeting!

This may not always be easy to do when your child comes in your room each morning at 6am, when you would much rather have a 6:30 wake up call!

I realized this the hard way as my very happy, eager to start his day son would constantly come in our room so happy to see his parents and was greeted by cranky, miserable parents. After much discussion between us we really felt awful about greeting (or lack of), our son this way - was this really how we wanted our son to feel first thing in the morning? We have compromised by allowing our son to come cuddle with us for a couple minutes before we head downstairs to start the day and we all feel much better about beginning the day!

Keep Smiling

Todd

Thursday, September 6, 2012

School's in

With school back in session, what are you teaching your children. Children learn by example so what are you you saying with your daily living.  Do you show your children that reading is important by reading yourself? Do you show the importance of being prepared, by being prepared yourself?  Do you follow a routine and structure that sets you up for success?  If you answered yes, than great you are doing great!!  If not, it is never too late to start something new.  We are always asking our children to try new things, (like new foods, new activities, etc) so why not lead by example. 
Hoping all have a terrific school year.
Todd

PS:  please share comments, things that are working etc.  It takes a village to raise children.

Monday, May 21, 2012

TRY TO IGNORE THIS!

Good morning,  After deciding to extend our trip a day, I'm writing from Cape Cod where the weather has been terrific. 

One of the biggest mistakes I see parents make is not addressing  problems as they arise.  They know these problems exist and that they are issues that are building, then they as parents will discuss these problems to other parents and then after all that, they will dismiss the issue as "my child is just going through something or they will grow out of it".    If this is you then keep reading.

My experience tells me that all issues should be addressed.  If you are dismissing the issues because you are worried of making a mistake or giving bad advice, stop worrying and start addressing.  Think about this.  If you are not giving your child advice on how to deal with problems or behavior then who is? 
Their friends? Television shows?  Reality TV?  Come on, you know that these places of getting advice are not as good as what you are able to give and teach.  Jump in there and start talking to your children. 

Problems can not be ignored and must be addressed.  The sooner you address it, the smaller that problem will be. The longer you wait, you are only digging a bigger hole.

So, if you have been putting something off, today is the day to tackle that issues.

To a great week ahead,
Todd

PS:  Love to hear your comments on this subject. Post away.

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Last Day!!

After seeing the cutest performance from my son as a cowboy this morning and looking forward to a great 4th grade concert tonight I will make this short. 

In my position as the director of a residential program so many people are amazed at how quickly I am able to form a bond and gain control of children who have been out of control for so long.
My secret!!!  Consistency.  By the end of two weeks, children know exactly where they stand and that what I say is fair and consistent.  I'm not talking about the type of leadership that is my way or the highway, but when it comes to rules and what's right sticking to them.  While their is always wiggle room within rules, those exceptions should not be often. 

The second part is that I always try  take the time (when necessary) to explain why things are the way they are.  We as parents must remember that if we want our children to turn out great then we must lead by being great.  Role modeling goes a long way.

Happy Role Modeling.
Todd

PS:  Today is the last day to sign up for summer parenting at the discounted price.  Tomorrow the price goes up.

Click here to register.
http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/p/parenting-from-theinside-out-take.html

Monday, May 14, 2012

Rainy Monday

After a great Mothers Day Weekend with the wife and kids back to a rainy Monday here in Garrison. 

Summer like holidays can bring on challenging behavior for you as a parent and your children. What are the expectations, how to prevent boredom, who will be involved in what, how are we going to fill those empty days? etc. etc. I'm sure it is safe to assume that this info is not new to you as a parent,So the question is What is that you would like to do in the summer with your children? and how are you going to deal with your children on an around the clock basis?   So if you have had rough summers in the past, what is going to change for you this summer?

While every family is different on how they approach the summer and what you as parents would like to see your children do and learn this summer can vary, one thing I can tell you for sure is that you need to have some kind of routine and consistency within your days.  The earlier you start planning the more enjoyable your summer will be.

If planning is not your strong point be sure to attend my summer parenting workshop May 24th.  Click below to sign up now.  Tomorrow is the last day for our promotion of sign up and your spouse attends for free.  Hurry before the price goes up.
http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/p/parenting-from-theinside-out-take.html


For more on routine and consistency check out below
http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/p/three-step-plan.html

Enjoy,
Todd

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

To Quit or Not to Quit??

With a rainy day here in Garrison I was able to spend some time with my youngest at the gym and prepare for my sons communion this weekend.  Have to Love rainy days.

With the spring in full swing and children so committed to team sports their is often the battle or controversy of not enjoying oneself.  If you find yourself in this situation their are some steps you can take to try to avoid a battle. 

Find out why they want to quit…really why.

Is your child no longer having fun? Do they want to quit because they don’t know anyone on the team? Do they not like the coach? Do they want to try a different sport? Would they rather be doing another extracurricular activity? Do they feel like they aren’t good enough for the team? If you can find out the real reason they want to quit their youth sports team you might be able to come up with a solution.What to do When Your Child Wants to Quit Youth Sports

Talk to the coach.

The coach might be able to help you better understand your child’s role on the team. Does he/she notice that your child is having a hard time keeping up with the level of play? Are they distracted at practice? How well do they interact with the other players? It always helps to get another point of view so you can better understand why your child might no longer be interested in youth sports. You also want to make sure the coach isn’t caught by surprise if your child stops coming to practice one day midway through the season. A lot of coaches blame themselves if a player quits the team, and if it isn’t their fault (maybe your child would just rather learn an instrument than play lacrosse) you don’t want them to be stuck with the guilt.

Decide if it’s worth the battle.

If the season hasn’t started yet, quitting youth sports is relatively simple. However, if you’re a month in with two months to go you are stuck between a rock and a hard place. You might decide that since your child is a part of a youth sports team, they have a responsibility to that team and need to finish out the season. Explain that they don’t have to play next year, but since they made a commitment they have to stick it out. One of the valuable life lessons youth sports teaches kids is to honor their obligations and see something through to the end.

Let them quit.

It might sound crazy, but sometimes letting your child quit sports is the right thing to do. You never want to pressure your child into playing youth sports, especially when they are miserable every step of the way. If their health or school work seems to be negatively affected by belonging to a youth sports team, it’s probably not worth sticking around for much longer.

I hope this helps if you are ever faced with the situation of quitting.

Good luck and keep belonging.
Todd

PS:  Copies of Three Step Parenting are selling quick,  See what people are saying about the book and  pick up your copy now by clicking the link below. 

http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/p/three-step-plan.html

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Mother!!

With so many things happening all week long, I wanted to get this out early.

Today is more of a reminder than a message.
With less than 5 days until one of the greatest days of the year what are you doing to be prepared.
Of course! I'm talking about Mothers Day.  So pass this along to your husband, kids etc so they now.
Some great ideas for your children and you to spoil the one you love.
1. Breakfast in Bed or even better let her sleep in.
2. SPA day, Let your lady be pampered the way she deserves.
3. Sit poolside and relax with a mimosa in the morning.
4. Shower her with great homemade cards and treats.  Nothing says I love you like time and effort.
5. Not romantic or exciting but your mom would love it!! On Saturday knock out all the laundry that 
    has piled up.  Nothing like going into mothers day with no chores needed to be complete.
6. Make Her that special dish for dinner that she loves so much.
7. Great gift idea to enjoy later in the day: A bottle of red wine labeled Mommy Time Out!  lol
    Yes, it is a real brand and a great way to wrap up the day.

Hope this helps. 

Todd

PS:  If you have not signed up yet, go there now and sign up for the parenting workshop for May 24th.
For less than $20 you can't go wrong.  Spots are filling up quick so go now.
click below.

http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/p/parenting-from-theinside-out-take.html

Friday, May 4, 2012

What do you want from me???

With the sun shining and a full weekend of coaching and cheering ahead of me, I am excited to start the weekend. I hope you are too.

So lets look at what your teenager might be trying to tell you.  Often those who are parents of teenagers will find that their young adults will come home from school and act one of two ways.  Not talk to you because you just don't understand / or they may be filled with information about the day.  So when the information or topic is about a negative situation at school or with friends,  what do you do as a parent? 
1.  Keep cool, This will teach your teenager to think and problem solve vs react out of haste. (besides
     if they are asking you must be doing something right)
2.  Prior to offering your opinion try to figure out if they are seeking your input or only venting.
3.  If they are looking for help, try to problem solve.  Don't give answers on what you would do,  
     however ask your child in return open ended questions to help keep the conversation going.
     Note:  The more you allow your child to talk and discuss the issue the more they will likely be
     able to make a decision on how to proceed.  You can also use door openers if you feel your   
    child would like to share something but is holding back, Door openers sound like this:
     "I'd like to hear more",  "Tell me more", "Go on" .

4.  Once your child has developed a plan or an awareness of the situation, complement them on being
     able to work it through.

Keep in mind that as a parent you would like your children to learn the necessary skills to one day be on their own and come to a decision on their own in similar situations.  Helping to problem solve will only ensure that they will be able to succeed.

Enjoy your weekend.
Todd

If you haven't already click below to sign up for my next parenting workshop.  Hurry because space is limited and it is filling up fast.

http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/p/parenting-from-theinside-out-take.html




 


Wednesday, May 2, 2012

SIMPLIFIED = TIME

With kindergarten orientation this morning for my third child, It is really hitting me how fast time does fly. 
Everything  I do in my life is about trying to simplify my life.  In my case it is to save time in order to be able to spend more time doing things that I like to do.  (spend time with my family and those that know me, mountain bike).  My viewpoint to parents and children alike is to work smarter / not harder.  Granted this does not mean be lazy and do nothing.  Just make the best use of your time.

So if you are facing a challenging situation in your home / career / family life / recreation life anywhere try to get to the bottom of it and figure out how to move beyond. 

So for example if you are having difficulties with your child helping around the house / doing homework etc create a solution and implement that solution. 

Life can really be that simple.  Sometimes we are so scared of change that we allow ourselves to accept mediocre behavior.  Today is that day that you are going to take a leap of faith and put yourself out there a little bit.  While it may not be easy:  as long as you are acting in the best interest of all involved and not selfishly than you will prevail in the long run. 

It really is easy as 1 - 2 - 3. 
Step 1.  Figure out the problem:
Step 2.   Create a solution:
Step 3.  Implement that solution.

For those that are able to figure out the problem and are having a difficult time creating a solution pick up a copy of Three Step Parenting.  It simplifies almost any problem you may be having with your children.  Saving you time from battling headaches. 

Click below to grab your copy.  Only 2.99.
http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/p/three-step-plan.html

Enjoy your day. 
Todd

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

WELL RESTED

After a great week celebrating my wife's 40th in Antigua, I'm back and well rested.

Let's dive right into it with summer planning.  With school ending in less than 8 weeks will you be ready to take on the challenges of having your children around full time.  Summer can be a stressful time , however if you plan properly (now) than your days will be filled with happiness and sunshine. 
Whether you are a stay at home parent, a full time working parent, a grandparent or a Nanny than you are going to need to plan out your summer. 

For you do it your-self-ers than start to cruise the Internet and research what you would like your summer to look like. 

Be sure to include your children in this process,  the more say and decision power they have the smoother the transition into summer will be. 

You will also want to take a look at your house rules and see if they may need some modifying for the summer.  Make sure that everyone knows the expectations of each other and success will be yours.

For those of you who just don't have the time or resources, be sure to sign up now for my SUMMER PARENTING workshop on the 24th of May. Thier will be plenty of great local programming as well as Grande ideas. 

For less money and time than dinner out you will have two months worth of quality family time ahead of you.

Sign up by clicking the link below. 
http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/p/parenting-from-theinside-out-take.html

Enjoy the day,
Todd

Friday, April 20, 2012

IT"S OFFICIAL!!!

With the weather being so nice and all my children loving to be outside I can't wait for the weekend.
But first,

Let's reduce a little of stress and anxiety on what the summer will be looking like. If you are one who plans ahead and sets yourself up for success then great for you!!  If not you definitely do not want to miss out on this upcoming workshop.  By the end you will have a clear picture of what your summer could potentially look like. 
You will learn tips and tricks on how to make this the best summer ever for your children.   You will learn strategies that if implemented could save you hundreds of dollars over and over all summer long.

That is not the only topic for this workshop, you will also walk away with proven strategies that will help you stay calm and relaxed througout the summer.  Resulting in pure enjoyment with your children.

Ok,  Not to sound like a salesman, but really, this workshop will be worth 10x what you will pay for it. 
Not to mention for the price, a night out with other parents may be worth it by itself.

Check out the blog pages for all the information on the Summer Parenting workshop or click below to sign up.

http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/p/parenting-from-theinside-out-take.html

PS:   I know parenting is a team effort so if you sign up prior to May 15th, your spouse attends
        for  FREE!!!

PPS:  May 24th 7 PM.

Have a great weekend.
Todd    

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

When pictures go BAD!!!

Another great day here is Garrison and another baseball victory for my son last night driving in 2 runs. Enough about my family.

There are so many benefits in today's technological society. Cell phones for example, while cell phones are great for conveniently tracking down our children in a time of need their are a lot of risks that come with teenagers and phones with cameras. Sexting. What is sexting. Sexting is taking pictures of oneself and sending out for others to view. Unfortunately it seems to be a real issue that many parents/guardians with teenagers have been facing these days. Here's what immediately comes to mind in terms of communicating with your child further in the event that you find yourself in this uncomfortable situation. (Or use the following in hopes of preventing this from happening) I hope this helps to create a framework from which a good and grounding conversation can result.

1. Open communication and listening. Raise what you found and listen to what your child says.
2. Express how much you love and respect them.
3. Calmly discuss the way that you want others to view and respect you. Ask her how she
wants to be viewed by boys.
4. Reiterate, how women/girls should be respected- how your child should be respected.
5. Talk about trust that has been broken.
6. Brainstorm with them and discuss how to earn trust back.
7. Talk about how much you love them and how sometimes kids seemingly benign and innocent
actions can lead to bigger and more serious things.
8. The reality is:
a) kids (even under 18) can be arrested for sending pictures of themselves. From an online
source: "Sending risqué photos comes with an additional risk: you can be arrested for
trafficking child porn, even if the images are of yourself! A 15-year-old Ohio girl was
arrested in January on felony child pornography charges for allegedly sending... (sexy) cell
phone pictures of herself to classmates."

b) sexy texted photos are often shared with friends, even innocently, which then are passed
around by that friend. a picture of your child could be sent around very very quickly. does
she want herself to be considered the "slut" amongst her friends? Even worse, the photos
can end up on the internet.

Message of the day is that this is reality in today's world. No matter how great of a parent you are this is a possibility. Open lines of communication are the best prevention. Don't be afraid to discuss these issues. No matter how uncomfortable.

Best of Luck
Todd

PS: Summer is just around the corner. Start planning now so you can make this year the best summer yet!! Mark your calender May 24Th. Summer ready parenting workshop 7-9 pm.
This workshop is guaranteed to over deliver on content.
That's all for today.

Monday, April 16, 2012

MEANING WHAT!!

After a weekend full of excitement with the family, I'm back at it.

As a base it is important to recognize that all behavior has meaning. The key to good parenting is to identify what behavior is being displayed by your child. If the behavior is positive then how do you foster that behavior. If behavior is negative then what is driving the behavior and how do you teach your child a better way of coping with thier situation.

For example the behavior of a bully might be hiding feelings of insecurity, where someone who runs away may be afraid of something.

So, as a parent our natural reaction is to focus on the behavior and deal with that. (NOT ANY MORE) From now on, try focusing on the underlying concerns that leads to the behavior rather than the behavior. Once you are able to identify the root of the issue then preventing reoccurring instances becomes much easier.

(ps: I am not saying that negitive behavior should go without consequences, Just saying to deal with the behavior first)

If you are in the Tri state area, please enjoy the 85+ day that we are having.
Todd

PS: Coming to the website soon, sign ups for the May 24th workshop.
Stay tuned.

Friday, April 13, 2012

SUPER CHARGED!!!

I'm supercharged and no not because I'm all hoped up on coffee, I'm pumped about the day and weekend coming up. I had a great week, great workouts, a resting heart rate of 38 at my last physical, a great PTA event last night and this weekend I am looking forward to three days in a row of soccer games and opening day at Little League for my son. I'm telling you this not to brag, but because I try to live what I'm encouraging you to do.

So, I am ready to deliver some great content to you today. I am a huge advocate for being a back yard vacationer. Enjoying time in your local area. While BIG extravagant vacations are great, you can't partake weekly. So, why not spend this weekend visiting some of your local area attractions. You may chose a theme park, museum, favorite hiking trail, fishing hole, arts and craft store, Hobby shop, Water Front, bike track, etc, etc. The main thing is to participate as a family.

Enjoy your weekend.
Todd

PS: If you have not already marked your calender, Now is a good time to do so. May 24Th, 7 pm is the next workshop. "SUMMER PARENTING" Be ready to tackle the summertime head on.

Thursday, April 12, 2012

BACKWARDS WORK

When it comes to problem solving with our children the key is to work backwards.
Prior to spitting out answers to your children, we must first Identify what the problem is.
(NOTE: Problems don't always have to be negative. Problems can be as simple as trying to figure out an interest that your children may have and fulfilling that interest in a positive manner).

Once you are able to correctly identify the problem,(and I say correctly because sometimes, the real issue may not be what your child is sharing) you can then start to develop a plan or solution to the problem.

The fastest and most direct way to get to this point (identifying an issue) is to be having daily conversations with your children. Whether these discussions are about school, sports, friends, etc etc. you need to be involved in your child's daily life. NO MATTER what their age is.

For more on this topic, Pick up a copy of Three Step Parenting by clicking the link below.
http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/

PS: Mark your calender!!! May 24th, 7pm Workshop in Garrison.

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

BACK OFF!!

You know the feeling when you see your child sad, stressed, anxious, etc etc. and your inner super parent mode kicks in that says Mom or Dad to the rescue.


If so, then you are ready to BACK OFF. Today, lets focus on letting go and allowing your child to figure out some uncomfortable situation on their own.

If you can answer YES to the below questions then you are ready to let GO and allow your child to fly or flop out of the nest.

1. Is my child able to handle this particular situation.

2.Am I able to place my parenting on hold temporarily to allow my child to grow.

3. Have I taught my child right and wrong.

4. Am I OK with my child making the wrong decision and using that as a teaching tool.

If you have been role modeling positive parenting, then your child should be able to handle a variety of situations. In the beginning of letting go, whether it is working out a dispute with a sibling or allowing your teenager to attend the movies with friends for the first time due your part by trying to set up the day for success.

Enjoy every stage,
Todd

Monday, April 2, 2012

WOW

When we talk about being role models and teachers to our children, It is important to first figure out what type of learner you are. In most cases, people will teach the way they learn. If your child learns that way than great. However, if they learn in a completely different manner than you have to start thinking of a new approach. The reason I'm telling you this is as adults we think our way is the best way and that often leads to unhappy people. (Adults and children) So sometimes we have to take a moment and back up and restart with a new approach. Don't get caught trying to put a square peg into a triangle slot.

For those who have children off from school this week, please be sure to enjoy the moment. Learn a new hobby or build on an old skill. Whatever it is just be in the moment.

Enjoy the day
Todd

PS:
Are You Summer Ready? Coming towards the end of May!!!
A workshop geared to parents to help prepare both physically and emotionally for the summer. Not Just Survive but actually enjoy each and every day.

Friday, March 30, 2012

Volunteer-Donate-What!! This is a must read!!

It's Friday and before I call it a week and head off to a weekend filled with traveling soccer games, basketball, gymnastics and bike riding, here is a little something to think about.

A happy family is a cohesive family - so do something as a family. This tip is a cost effective, important lesson providing activity - VOLUNTEER as a FAMILY.
This can be a rewarding experience with a life's worth of valuable lessons, that incorporates civic duty and meaningful family time, all while doing something important. The volunteer experience you choose is going to depend on many factors - so please use this list as an example and do something that would be a great fit for your family. Explain to your family the importance of the activity and how important they are to be helping such a great cause!

Example Opportunities:
*Collect canned goods from your pantry, your neighbors and friends for a local food pantry
*Clean out the linen closet and donate old towels, sheets and blankets to an animal
shelter
*Collect stuffed animals and dolls and donate them to your local fire department, police
department and rescue squad
*Have your children clean out toys and donate them to a homeless shelter or a women's
shelter
*Collect clothes that your family no longer wants and take them to a clothing drop bin.
*Have a big playdate with a couple families and make greeting cards for a local senior
center or hospital

One Note - Before collecting, dropping off, etc . . . please contact the agency to make sure they will take the items, most will, but if they don't they are usually able to refer you to an appropriate party.

Happy Volunteering and Congratulations on doing something meaningful for and with your family!

Have a great weekend.
Todd

PS: I have been getting a ton of postive feedback on my article on ezine articles.
If you have not gone and checked it out yet, head there now. Just click the link below.
Best of all, Its Free!!!

http://ezinearticles.com/?Three-Step-Parenting&id=6914989

PPS: share your opions below.

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

TOP 10!!!

With the weather crazy here in Garrison, Rain one minute, sun the next, 30 mph wind gust and back to rain then sun, who knows what's next. 80 degrees again would be nice after making the summer switch over last week (ok, enough weather talk) I write the below for you.

After discussing topics from recreating with your children to cleaning to extended family, this tip should come to you as no surprise.Create your own TOP TEN list. Sit down with your family and find out more about each other by developing a question and answer session. Here each family member will create 10 appropriate questions geared toward anyone in their family that must be answered.

Questions may include:
1.What is your favorite place to hang out?
2.What is something new you would like to try?
3.Kids to parents, what was your favorite subject in school?

etc, etc. So what are you waiting for, grab a pen and paper and start creating your list!
BONUS:Watch the endless discussions that will arise from your list.

Enjoy,
Todd

PS: Parenting workshop coming in May, stay tuned for details.
http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/p/three-step-plan.html

Friday, March 23, 2012

Kick Butt Routines

If you haven't heard yet, routine and structure are amongst the most important factors when it comes to raising happy, healthy and productive children.

Whether you have a good routine or bad routine you provide your children with a certain amount of stability. (See below on how to create only good routines) When routines are well thought out and implemented they assist with setting your child up for success. Routines will also help to cut down and in most cases eliminate stress. They help the disorganized child. They create a safe haven for the out of control child. They work well with all children especially those who have ADD ADHD. I can go on and on, but I think you see the bigger picture.

For more on how to create and implement a Kick Butt Routine for any issue in your life.
Check out the article I wrote on Ezine Articles by clicking the link below.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Three-Step-Parenting&id=6914989

Have a great weekend.
Todd

PS: please post for others some of your best routines.

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Do As I Say

Today, let's dabble in some Self Awareness:
How many of us preach to our children, "Do As I Say, Not as I Do"
Do you find yourself ripping into your child for doing the exact same behaviors you do yourself. Then try to justify it with I'm an adult speech.

Try to take a moment and become aware of how you are acting around your children. Are your manners ok, do you follow the house rules, is your language appropriate at all times, Are you a reader, Are you generally on time or late to things, what are your eating habits. The question is are these things that you want your children to pick up on and one day pass on to their children or do you need to work on them as well. Children of all ages usually learn their behavior from somewhere. Most often from those closest to them.
WHAT ARE YOU TEACHING????

I love to hear comments: please post
Todd

PS: coming sometime in May, another parenting workshop. Stay tuned for more details.

Friday, March 16, 2012

Go Unplugged

UNPLUGGED!!!

To increase the happiness amongst your family - UNPLUG your life - turn off the computer, ipod, television, radio, video games or whatever it is your family is participating in independently.Spontaneously unplug and do a family activity together - Take a Hike, play a board game, work on a puzzle, work on your garden - whatever is enjoyable for your family as a whole. Just use this opportunity as a way to let your family know that your time spent together is valuable and important! Try this for an afternoon, then a day, then a weekend, then a month. Watch the togetherness and productivity grow
Happy unplugging,
Enjoy the weekend.

Todd

PS: copies of Three Step Parenting are selling fast, grab your copy now!!
http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/

PPS: Post how you are going to go unplugged on the wall.

Friday, March 9, 2012

Happy Families

Hey,

After a weekend filled with sleepovers, gymnastics, science projects, girlscouts and my youngest turning 3, Im back at it and ready to give.

I recently submitted an article to Ezine articles and they just released it Friday. This article assist parents in creating routine and structure in the home in three simple steps.

After reading the article, parents will be able to identify a problem or situation that is happening in the home, create a solution for the problem and implement the new plan. Creating a Happier Home Enviornment.



Check out the link below for the full version of the article.

http://ezinearticles.com/?Three-Step-Parenting&id=6914989




Also help me to help others by passing this on..


Yours truely,
Todd

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Only two days left

Today is a bright sun shiny day here in Garrison, NY. Hope your enjoying your weather.

While many of you may be enjoying a winter recess with your children, I'm putting the finishing touches on to bring you the best parenting workshop ever. With only two days left be sure to grab your spot for the workshop below.

http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/p/parenting-from-theinside-out-take.html

This workshop is guaranteed to bring you all the necessary skills to be the best parent to your children.

Here are just a few of the many things that will be covered in the workshop.
Learn all about yourself and why you make the decisions you do.
Learn how to create routine and structure for any situation that arises.
as well as so much more.

PS: As a added bonus. Sign up at the link below and recieve as an added bonus 1 free teleconference after the seminar.

http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/p/parenting-from-theinside-out-take.html

PPS: what are you waiting for!!

I look forward to seeing you on Saturday.

Todd

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

What happens in Public!

Hey (insert name here)

Today is Valentines day and after a great morning with the kids, I'm ready to rock.

One of the greatest parenting approaches that I see in use today is parents who are parenting for the best interest of their children. What do I mean by this. So many times in public I'll see parents correcting their children more out of embarrassment for themselves then the actions of thier children. Parents have a funny way of teaching their children not right and wrong, but don't embarrass.

When it comes to correcting children the approach should be two fold.

1. Focusing on teaching your child that their behavior is not acceptable. (not the child) with
consequence coming second. (consequence meaning a time out etc.)

2. To do what is in the best interest of your child, Not anyone else.

When it comes to young children and discipline, the closer to an incident that you can correct the behavior the more likely your child will be able to relate the action with the consequence.

I would love to hear your comments.
post below.

Todd

PS: If you havent alreay signed up for the parenting workshop on the 25th. Do so below. Spaces are filling up fast.

http://threestepparenting.blogspot.com/p/parenting-from-theinside-out-take.html

What are you waiting for sign up now!!

Monday, February 6, 2012

After a great sunny day here in NY I have Great News!!


I will be running a parenting workshop at the end of the month.

February 25th

In Garrison NY

9-12


During this 3 hour workshop parents can expect to learn:


Tested, proven parenting techniques

How to effectively break bad habits

Why children behave the way they do

How to yell less and communicate more

Why routine and structure are so important when it comes to raising a family

How to keep in mind the bigger picture of your children's future.


Who should attend?


Anyone who is eager to learn how to be a better caregiver to children,

whether you're a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, nanny or childcare provider.



For more information and to register

Click on the link below.




PS: As an added bonus, because parenting should not be a one person operation, sign up prior to February 13th, my birthday and your guest will attend for free.


What are you waiting for sign up now!!

The cost is cheaper than a babysitter for the night



Monday, January 9, 2012

Why is Parenting so Hard???

Why does parenting seem so hard to so many and so easy to others??

Parenting in itself is not a hard skill to learn. The issue is that parents are faced with so many other obligations, emotions and challenges in life besides parenting. Think of it this way. You go to work and for 8 hours, your job is to fulfill whatever your job is. Your focus should be one minded, completing the task at hand. Now if you returned home and for the next 8 hours your job was to parent it would not be so hard. This is not the case for most. For most arrive at home, take a deep breath, enter the house and begin where they left off from the morning. That might be finishing cooking meals, taking out the trash, doing laundry, completing homework, cleaning the kids rooms, trying to complete that assignment for the boss, reading the newspaper, trying to catch a quick workout, mowing the yard, touching up or beginning that house project, providing transportation (you get the point) and then comes the parenting.

Why am I telling you this? One, to let you know that you are not alone if you feel this way. So many parents I meet feel this way. The difference between a good parent and a great parent is the approach and attitude you take to handling this type of role in your life.

Try these quick thoughts to help you refocus yourself and embrace what parenting means to you.
1. Every adult needs time to themselves to do the things they enjoy. (whatever that means to you) I put this first because of how important it is and how so many push it aside. Sometimes putting yourself first, takes away any feelings of resentment.
2. Create a consistent routine and clear expectations within your home. The routine should be designed so that it allows all members within the home to flourish. (Not just what you as the parents thinks is best).
3. Spend time as a family as often as possible without any gadgets, cell phones vidio games etc. try an old fashion board game, trip to the local library, a local event or anything else. This atmosphere provides for non interupted (much needed) time with your children.
Post what works in your home for others to see.
Cheers,
Todd