Are Your Kids Acting Up?

Winter is my least favorite season of all, not only because of the cold weather but also because of the heavy winter outfit we have to wear. It's so frustrating when we have to go somewhere and my son acts up and won't wear his winter jacket, boots, hat and mittens, not to mention he's arching his back sometimes when you sit him in his car seat too, whew! I would sometimes literally drag him just so we won't be late for an appointment. It's always hard to head out in time when things like this happen.

Here are some common problems that moms encounter everyday and suggested quick solutions:

• PROBLEM: Your child screams uncontrollably when it's time to get dressed.
• HOW ABOUT: Making it a matter of choice: "Do you want to wear a dress or jeans?
• NO LUCK? TRY: A change of scenery. Getting dressed in the kitchen might be more fun

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• PROBLEM: Your child clamps her mouth shut at the sight of a spoon.
• HOW ABOUT: Taking a bite yourself. It will look less like you're forcing something on her.
• NO LUCK? TRY: Giving up - for now. She won't starve, so pick your battles.

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• PROBLEM: Your child refuses to share at a playdate
  
• HOW ABOUT: Putting her leadership skills to work: say "Teach Kristen how to play with the toy."
  
• NO LUCK? TRY: "Two more minutes, then it's Kristen's turn. Decide what to play with next.

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• PROBLEM: Your child won't go to bed.
  
• HOW ABOUT: Letting her rest on the floor of her room.
  
• NO LUCK? TRY: Turning off the lights and TV's. With no reason to stay up, she may go to sleep.

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