by Kirk Martin | May 30, 2016 | Calm Parenting
I am a skeptical guy, like you or your husband. I always thought, “If my kids and spouse would just do what I expect, everything would be fine!” Everyone had to walk on eggshells around me. Until this moment with my son happened. Watch this short video...
by Kirk Martin | May 4, 2016 | Calm Parenting
Here is one simple action step that can turn a power struggle into a learning opportunity. If you respond to an upset person by getting upset yourself, you have perpetuated the cycle. But the moment you sit down and calmly say, “I’d like to listen to what...
by Kirk Martin | Mar 22, 2016 | Calm Parenting
Did you know that your kids get five important needs met by playing video games? Screens provide immediate stimulation, predictability in an uncertain world, ownership, social interaction (not the way we want it, but they do connect this way)….and confidence....
by Kirk Martin | Mar 12, 2016 | Calm Parenting
Step back so your kids can step up. When we control our kids or micromanage them, we rob them of the satisfaction that comes from making good decisions on their own or developing the internal resources to learn from bad decisions. When we step back, it gives our kids...
by Kirk Martin | Feb 21, 2016 | Calm Parenting
You’re trying to cook dinner, help the other child with homework, have a rare conversation with your spouse, or simply enjoy a peaceful moment. But you hear the siblings escalating in the other room. There’s drama and the emotional fire is growing. So you...
by Kirk Martin | Sep 14, 2015 | Calm Parenting
When we try to force kids into a box, it causes power struggles and crushes spirits. Many strong-willed children desire ownership and like challenges. They are very purposeful. Strong-willed children often feel like everyone and everything is against them. They need...
