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Previous Tips of the Day

Tip of the Day February 28

Know when to tell your children you’re sorry. Keep it honest and sincere, avoiding the temptation to soothe your own conscience by offering gifts or other indulgences unrelated to the situation.

Tip of the Day February 27

If you parent with a partner, make sure you work on keeping that relationship happy and healthy. You, your partner, and your kids will all benefit.

Tip of the Day February 26

Be the kind of person you want your child to be. Know your values and act on them; treat others the way you would like to be treated; and cut yourself some slack when appropriate.

Tip of the Day February 25

When you attend games, concerts, and performances, congratulate your child first afterward but also make it a point to say hello to other kids.

Tip of the Day February 24

Consider having activities that make your home “the place” to be. Some parents have a video-game console. Others stock their cupboards with healthy treats. Some parents enjoy hosting parties. Others like to do projects with kids. Still others put up a basketball hoop so that kids can play games together.

Tip of the Day February 23

Make your home a welcoming place for your child’s friends. Greet them by name. Smile and make eye contact with them.

Tip of the Day February 22

Learn the names of all of your child’s friends. Some parents keep a notebook that not only lists their child’s friends but also the names of the parents (along with phone numbers, e-mail addresses, or an address).

Tip of the Day February 21

If you feel that one of your child’s friends is having a negative influence on him, invite that friend to spend time with you and your child together so that you can have a positive influence on the relationship.

Tip of the Day February 20

Avoid criticizing friendships, but be honest with your kids when you’re concerned. Don’t condemn your child’s friends. This may make them defensive and less receptive to what you have to say. Be open and willing to listen to what she has to say, and talk about what makes you nervous.

Tip of the Day February 19

You don’t have to be nosy to get to know your children’s friends, but you do have to be the one to set the tone of kind, friendly interaction. Your kids might think it’s a little weird at first, but in the long run they’ll appreciate it.