FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
December 15 , 2005

CONTACT:
Michael Runestad
317-634-6341 x 135
miker@family-service-inc.org

Parenting expert available for holiday stories

The holidays can become a trying time with children and their behavior. Parents often counteract with expectations that are unrealistic, which makes the situation even more stressful. Parent Education Coordinator Marli Hamm has a few simple techniques parents can use to encourage positive behavior in children. These tips include:

Be proactive in managing behavior:

• Continue routines as best as possible
• Within appropriate options, let children help decide (example: will we use the turkey or the pumpkin as the centerpiece?)
• Explain upcoming plans and activities
• Set clear rules with reasonable expectations and consequences
• Model a positive attitude and appropriate behavior
• PRAISE your children for behaving well
• Delegate older children responsibilities -- keep them involved
• Allow teens time for their friends and “me” time as well
• Avoid empty or extreme threats of withholding holiday traditions, festivities, and gifts

Be prepared to travel and meet family and friends:

• Talk with children about arriving guests and those you will be visiting -- who they are, why they are important, the relationship the guest has to the child, etc.
• Have activities and games to do in the car or airplane
• Take frequent breaks
• Allow children to take along something familiar like a pillow, blanket, or toy

Other tips to consider:

• Plan activities for children
• Work around regular meal and naptimes
• Monitor sugar intake
• Plan “one-on-one” time with each individual child
• Find stress management tools that work for your child and you

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