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Previous Tips of the Day

Tip of the Day February 17

Invest in high-quality internet software that can track all activity, including chats, email, and web access. Let your teens know you will regularly check on what they are doing online (and then be sure to do it).

Tip of the Day February 16

Always ask where your kids are going, with whom, and when they’ll be home.

Tip of the Day February 15

Reward the positive behavior and limit opportunities for the negative. For example, if you have a teenager who has a history of impulsive behavior, don’t let her go to an unsupervised party; have a gathering at your home instead.

Tip of the Day February 14

The next time your child lashes out at you, try responding with love rather than anger, such as, “I’m sorry you’re feeling that way right now. I love you, but it’s not okay to act this way.”

Tip of the Day February 13

The key to reducing everyone’s stress and frustration about rules and expectations is to be clear, consistent, reasonable, and evolutionary. “Evolutionary” means being responsive to your child’s changing developmental needs and what they’ve demonstrated about their choices.

Tip of the Day February 12

It’s no fun being the parent who says no when others are saying yes. But sometimes it’s in the best interest of your kids and your entire family. More tips on setting boundaries >>

Tip of the Day February 11

Parents must decide when a teen’s welfare or the welfare of others is seriously endangered, and take action. If your child is engaging in risky behaviors of any sort, it’s time to intervene, monitor behavior closely, and perhaps seek professional support.

Tip of the Day February 10

Remove yourself from a situation immediately if you ever feel troubled enough to use physical or emotional violence against your teenager. Leave the room—go for a walk, visit a neighbor, call a trusted friend or counselor—but physically go somewhere else and calm down.

Tip of the Day February 9

Talk with your teen about the connection between driving and emotions. Point out that driving while angry, sad, or preoccupied can be as dangerous as drinking and driving. New drivers need to be in control of their own emotions and alert to the reactions of other drivers.

Tip of the Day February 8

If weapons are ever part of a bullying threat, take the threat seriously. The police need to be kept informed.