Preschool through middle school, back to school anxiety looks different at every age. A former Montessori teacher breaks down what's really going on.

Natural consequences are more than a parenting strategy. Learn the unspoken message your child receives when you stay calm, and let reality do the teaching.

If you've ever had a thought about your child that stopped you in your tracks, you are not alone. Here's what that feeling is really trying to tell you.

The holidays are magical… and also overstimulating, schedule-disrupting, sugar-filled, expectation-heavy chaos for children, AND adults! If your child melts down more easily this time of year, gets clingy around relatives, refuses to participate in activities you had planned, or becomes a tiny tornado of excitement + exhaustion… just remember, NOTHING IS WRONG. They’re responding exactly as a young, developing nervous system should. This guide blends Parenting on Purpose strategies and Montessori principles to help you navigate the holidays with more peace, fewer power struggles, and a deeper connection with your child. 1. Prepare the Environment — Keep Things Predictable Young children thrive when they know what to expect. Holidays often flip routines upside down, so give them gentle anchors: ✔ Keep wake/sleep times as close to normal as possible ✔ Give verbal previews of what's coming (“At Nana’s house, there will be new people. You can stay close to me if you want.”) ✔ Create a “quiet corner” wherever you go, take books, small toys, headphones ✔ Bring familiar foods or snacks Predictability reduces overwhelm. When children feel safe, they behave better and cope better. 2. Follow the Child = Respect Their Limits The holidays come with adult expectations: Take the picture. Hug Aunt Sue. Sit through dinner. Be cheerful. But children still have developmentally normal limits. Respecting those limits actually prevents bigger behavior issues later. ✔ Allow alternatives to forced affection ✔ Let them take breaks from large gatherings ✔ Keep meals simple and child-friendly ✔ Shorten events when possible When you follow the child, you’re honoring their autonomy and ability, showing them their needs matter. 3. Connection First, Correction Second Holiday stress lessens everyone’s patience. Before correcting behavior, connect first: “Wow, there’s a lot happening today. Is your body feeling overwhelmed?” “I’m right here. Let’s take a minute together. Do you feel calm now? Remember how we talked about 'gentle hands'?” This is especially powerful during overstimulation, sugar crashes, or transitions. Connection regulates. Correction teaches. But connection must come first. 4. Expect Dysregulation… It’s Not Bad Behavior, It’s Biology Late nights, new environments, unfamiliar relatives, disrupted routines. Young nervous systems get overloaded quickly. Remember - behavior is communication, and your calm is their anchor. So when you see: • whining • defiance • silliness that turns chaotic • tears over tiny things Interpret it as: “I need help.” Stay close, stay soft, and co-regulate (ask me about co-regulation if you need help). 5. Protect Their Autonomy - Offer Choices Instead of power struggles, try simple holiday-friendly choices: “Red cup or green cup?” “Do you want to help carry napkins or put out spoons?” “Do you want to open gifts now or in ten minutes?” “Do you want to take a break on the couch or in the quiet corner?” Choices reduce friction and increase cooperation. 6. Set Clear, Kind Boundaries Holidays don’t mean permissiveness. Instead of harsh limits or inconsistent ones, aim for calm and clear: “We don’t hit. I won’t let you hit. I see you’re upset, let’s take a break together.” “We open one gift at a time. You’ll get your next turn soon. Sit with me here if you need help.” Consistency + compassion is the holiday superformula . 7. Slow Down the Schedule Children move through the world slowly and intentionally. Holidays tend to be the opposite. Build slowness on purpose: ✔ Keep one “home day” between big events ✔ Leave early when needed ✔ Limit the number of activities in a single day By doing this, you’re protecting concentration, inner order, and promoting self-regulation. 8. Create Opportunities for Meaningful Participation Children want to help. Inviting them to contribute gives them belonging and a sense of power. Try: stirring batter wiping the table putting bows in a basket helping wrap gifts carrying holiday cards to the mailbox This is Montessori Practical Life + Parenting on Purpose empowerment. 9. Hold Realistic Expectations (for Them AND for You) Your child will… ✔ get overwhelmed ✔ get overstimulated ✔ get tired ✔ get clingy ✔ have big feelings And you will, too. Lowering expectations doesn’t ruin the holiday - it saves it. 10. Remember the Goal: Connection > Perfection If you do nothing else this season, hold this truth: Your calm presence matters more than your plans. Your child won’t remember matching pajamas, perfect photos, or a flawless dinner. They’ll remember how it felt to be with you. Calm. Safe. Seen. Loved. That’s the heart of Parenting on Purpose, and the true spirit of the holidays.

Back in May, I posted a blog article about boundaries being a parents greatest gift to their children - clear, consistent guidelines that not only help children feel safe, but also to learn how the world works, and how to respect both themselves and others. But there’s a key element that often gets overlooked: setting expectations before boundaries are crossed. Let's do a little review, then I'll show you what I should have done first! Why Boundaries Are Essential for Kids Contrary to popular belief, boundaries don’t make children feel restricted, they help them feel secure. Boundaries show children: Which behaviors are acceptable and which are not How to treat others with respect That actions have consequences That parents are reliable and consistent That their feelings matter, but so do others’ Boundaries provide structure, and structure gives children the stability they need to thrive. The Mistake: Waiting Until There’s a Problem It’s easy to fall into the habit of reacting only after something goes wrong: after the tantrum, after the broken rule, after the backtalk. But if expectations weren’t made clear beforehand, it’s unfair to assume a child fully understood the boundary in the first place. Waiting until a boundary is crossed often turns the situation into a punishment rather than a teaching moment because we are triggered into anger. Instead of learning what the expectation is, the child may feel scolded, confused, or even ashamed. And instead of correcting a behavior, we risk damaging connection and trust. Set Expectations Early and Revisit Often Most boundaries should be based on family values and stay fairly constant regardless of the age or development of the child. For example, kindness is a value that could inspire boundaries that would apply at all ages and to all members of the family, but some boundaries may need to be specific to each child depending on their temperament and their desired activities. If your child suddenly wants to take part in something they’ve never done before, you might be able to call upon an existing family boundary, but you might have to create something right there ON THE SPOT! Setting expectations in advance is one of the most effective things a parent can do to ensure boundaries will be adhered to... it helps kids understand the “why”, and it empowers them to make better choices. For example: Before a playdate: “We’re going to your friend’s house. I expect you to share and use kind words. If something upsets you, come tell me instead of yelling.” Before screen time ends: “You have 30 minutes to play. When the timer goes off, we turn it off without arguing. If you do that, we’ll have time for a story before bed.” Before visiting the store: “We’re only buying groceries today. I’m not buying toys or candy, and I need your help sticking to the list.” Clear expectations reduce surprises, and therefore can reduce meltdowns, arguments, and stress. How to Set and Maintain Boundaries Effectively Be proactive, not reactive Talk about rules and expectations ahead of time, not just in the heat of the moment. Stay calm and consistent Kids learn more from how we say things than what we say. Calmness reinforces that the boundary is firm, not emotional. Use age-appropriate language Keep explanations simple for young children. For older kids, involve them in setting some boundaries themselves. Follow through with kindness Consequences should be related to the behavior, not punitive. If a rule is broken, calmly enforce the boundary and explain why. Praise boundary-respecting behavior Catch them doing it right. Positive reinforcement helps them internalize the lessons. Boundaries Are About Connection, Not Control Setting boundaries doesn’t mean being harsh or overly strict. It means being clear. When expectations are explained in advance, children feel respected and safe. They may not always like the rules, but they will begin to understand and accept them because they trust that the rules are consistent and fair. And perhaps most importantly, setting boundaries teaches kids how to create their own - how to say no, how to speak up, and how to protect their own emotional well-being as they grow. As parents, our goal isn't just to manage behavior… it’s to guide our children toward becoming emotionally intelligent, respectful, and responsible adults. Boundaries are essential in that journey, but they only work when kids understand them ahead of time. So next time you're about to say "no," try starting with a "here's what to expect." It might just change the entire conversation, and strengthen your relationship in the process.

Sibling rivalry is almost universal: disagreements, jealousy, fights over attention or resources. While some rivalry is normal (and can even help kids develop conflict resolution skills), when conflict becomes frequent, intense, or lasting it can negatively affect self‑esteem, well‑being, and family harmony. If you have more than one child, you’ve probably dealt with sibling rivalry. The good news? It’s totally normal. The better news? There are simple things parents can do to make it easier for everyone. Let's take a look... Why Do Siblings Fight? They’re competing for your attention. Even older kids still want to feel seen and valued. They’re learning how to share space, time, and stuff. That’s a tall order for developing brains! They might be hungry, tired, or overwhelmed. Just like adults, kids lash out when they’re not feeling their best. So What Can You Do? Here are some practical ways to handle sibling rivalry without losing your mind: Don’t Play Referee (Unless You Have To) Unless someone is in danger, try not to jump in and fix every argument. Instead, help your kids learn how to talk it out themselves. You can coach from the sidelines with things like: “I hear both of you are upset. Can you each take turns explaining what happened?” “What’s a fair way to solve this?” “Is there something you could do differently next time?” Letting kids practice solving their own conflicts builds problem-solving and empathy. Teach (and Model) Emotional Regulation You can’t be a calm saint all the time, but showing your kids how you handle frustration helps them learn, too. You can also teach them simple strategies like: Taking a break to cool down Using “I” statements (“I feel mad when you grab my toy.”) Naming their feelings (“You’re feeling left out, huh?”) Kids are more likely to treat each other kindly when they’re not emotionally flooded. Give Individual Attention It doesn’t have to be fancy... ten minutes of one-on-one time a day can go a long way. Read a book, chat while folding laundry, or play a quick card game - let it be child led. When kids feel secure in their connection with you, they’re less likely to compete for attention by fighting. Encourage Positive Sibling Time Give them shared tasks (like baking cookies), cooperative games, or even a silly “team challenge.” Celebrate moments when they help each other, share, or show kindness: “I saw you give your sister the last cookie - so thoughtful!” “You both worked together to clean the playroom, great teamwork!” Positive reinforcement helps build the kind of sibling relationship you want to see more of. Avoid Comparing Your Kids Even well-meaning comments like “Why can’t you be more like your brother?” can fuel resentment. Instead, celebrate each child’s unique strengths. One might be the artist, another the joke-teller, another the peacemaker. Set Clear, Consistent Boundaries Make your family rules clear (e.g., no hitting, name-calling, or grabbing). Follow through with fair consequences when rules are broken. Kids feel safer and more respected when they know what to expect. Know When It’s More Than Normal Rivalry Most sibling rivalry is manageable, but if the fighting turns into bullying, if one child is regularly feeling unsafe or targeted, or if the stress is affecting the whole family, it might be time to talk to a counselor or family therapist. Final Thoughts - Sibling rivalry isn’t a sign that something’s wrong, it’s a sign that kids are learning how to live and grow together. Your job isn’t to make the rivalry disappear overnight, but to give your kids the tools, structure, and support to handle it well. With time, practice, and lots of patience, those noisy battles can turn into something deeper: a lifelong relationship built on trust, respect, and (eventually!) love. ____________________ A Couple of Helpful Resources: Healthy Children – Sibling Rivalry: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/family-dynamics/Pages/Sibling-Rivalry.aspx Psychology Today – 7 Evidence-Based Ways to Stop Sibling Fighting: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/parenting-translator/202107/7-evidence-based-ways-stop-sibling-fighting

Let’s be real: Summer is upon us and vacations with kids can feel like emotional roller coasters. One moment they’re squealing with joy on the beach, and the next, they’re crying in the middle of a theme park because their sock “feels weird.” So why do meltdowns seem worse when you’re supposed to be having fun? Here’s the truth: Vacations are full of hidden stressors for kids - and if you understand what’s behind the outbursts, you’ll be better equipped to prevent (or at least manage) them. 1. Routine Disruption Kids thrive on routine, even if they don’t realize it. Vacations usually mean different wake-up times, meals on the go, skipped naps, and new environments. This throws off their internal rhythm, making them more emotionally fragile. Think of it like jet lag for their emotions. 2. Sensory Overload New places bring new smells, crowds, noise, weather, and clothes (wet swimsuits, itchy tags, etc.). It’s a lot for little nervous systems to process, and some kids are more sensitive than others. 3. Unrealistic Expectations Parents often get super excited and unintentionally oversell the trip - “It’s going to be the BEST day ever!!” - which can set kids up for disappointment when reality doesn’t match the hype. 4. Too Much Stimulation, Too Little Rest Long days + lots of walking + unfamiliar beds = overtired kids. And tired kids don’t have the tools to regulate their emotions, even when they're having fun. 5. Lack of Control On vacation, kids often feel dragged from place to place with little say in what happens. That loss of autonomy can trigger power struggles and outbursts. So, what can we do about it...? How to Help Kids Cope (and Prevent Meltdowns) 1. Keep Some Routines Intact Stick to a consistent wake/sleep time when possible. Keep familiar bedtime rituals - a favorite stuffed animal, a bedtime story, or the same lullaby. Even a sliver of routine can help kids feel grounded. 2. Build in Downtime Schedule breaks during the day: time to rest, play quietly, or do something familiar like drawing or reading. Don’t try to fill every minute with an activity. 3. Let Them Have a Say Give kids choices: “Do you want to wear the blue shirt or the red one?” “Pool before lunch or after?” Small decisions help them feel in control and reduce resistance. 4. Watch for Warning Signs Learn your child’s cues - rubbing their eyes, clinging, getting whiny - and act early. A meltdown that’s brewing can sometimes be prevented with a snack, a cuddle, or a quiet break. 5. Keep Snacks and Water Handy Hungry + dehydrated = cranky. It’s basic, but often overlooked when you’re in travel mode. Keep water bottles and easy snacks with you at all times. 6. Manage Your Own Stress Kids pick up on your energy. If you're anxious, rushed, or snippy, they’ll mirror that. Take a breath. Slow down. You’re modeling how to stay calm under pressure (even if you’re faking it a little). 7. Adjust Your Expectations Not every moment will be magical — and that’s okay. Some of the best vacation memories come from the imperfect, goofy, unplanned moments. Focus on connection, not perfection. Your child isn’t misbehaving because they’re ungrateful or trying to ruin the trip. They’re little humans doing their best in a new and overwhelming situation. Give them grace - and give yourself some too. Meltdowns on vacation are normal. With a little preparation and a lot of patience, you can ride them out and still have a meaningful, memorable trip. If things are still hard once you get home, reach out for more information on co-regulation, power struggles and meltdowns!

Young children often exhibit entitled behavior, such as demanding attention, refusing to share, or expecting rewards without effort, for a variety of developmental, environmental, and parenting-related reasons. This behavior is not always a sign of lasting character flaws but often reflects normal developmental stages combined with environmental influences. 1. Developmental Stage Young children are naturally egocentric. Their brains are still developing the ability to understand others’ perspectives, control impulses, and delay gratification. This makes them more likely to seem “entitled” simply because they are not yet cognitively capable of mature empathy or self-regulation. 2. Parenting Style Certain parenting approaches can unintentionally foster entitlement. Overindulgence (giving too many material items or rewards), lack of boundaries, or shielding children from disappointment can lead them to expect instant gratification or special treatment. Similarly, inconsistent discipline may confuse children about expectations and consequences. 3. Cultural and Social Influences Modern culture often reinforces entitlement through media, advertising, and peer influence. Children are frequently exposed to messages that equate happiness with consumption or that glorify status and success without effort, shaping unrealistic expectations. 4. Emotional Needs Sometimes, entitled behavior masks unmet emotional needs. A child who feels insecure, unheard, or disconnected may act out in ways that appear demanding or self-centered. They may use control or manipulation to get attention or reassurance. 5. Lack of Responsibility or Contribution When children are not given age-appropriate responsibilities or opportunities to contribute to the family or community, they may not develop a sense of gratitude or accountability. Entitlement can emerge when effort and reward are not connected. Entitlement in young children is often a mix of age-appropriate immaturity and environmental factors. It can be addressed with consistent boundaries, empathy-building, responsibility, and modeling gratitude . With guidance, children can outgrow entitled tendencies and develop more balanced, respectful attitudes. So What Do We Do About It…? 1. Consistent Boundaries: Creating Structure and Security Children thrive when they understand the rules and know what to expect. Inconsistent boundaries can confuse them and can make them push harder to get what they want. When parents set clear expectations and stick to them, children feel safer, more secure, and learn limits. What to do: Set clear rules and consequences. For example: "We clean up our toys before screen time." If the rule isn’t followed, the consequence is no screen time. Follow through every time. If you say "no dessert if you whine at dinner," but give it anyway, your child learns the whining works. Use calm, firm communication. Avoid yelling or emotional reactions. Say, “I know you're upset, and the rule is still the same.” Be proactive, not reactive. Establish routines and expectations early to avoid constant negotiations. Children learn that they are not the center of every decision, and that rules apply to everyone. This helps reduce demanding or manipulative behavior. 2. Empathy-Building: Teaching Kids to Understand Others Empathy is the ability to understand how others feel. Entitled kids often focus only on their own wants and needs. Empathy encourages them to think outside themselves and respond with kindness and respect. What to do: Label and talk about emotions. Ask questions like, “How do you think your sister felt when you took her toy?” Use books and stories. Discuss characters' feelings: “Why do you think he was sad? What could his friend have done differently?” Praise empathetic behavior. Acknowledge it when your child shows care or concern: “It was kind of you to help your friend when he fell.” Encourage perspective-taking. Ask, “How would you feel if someone did that to you?” When children learn to consider others’ feelings, they’re less likely to act selfishly or demand special treatment. 3. Responsibility: Connecting Privileges to Contribution When children aren’t asked to contribute, they may come to believe they are owed everything simply for existing. Giving them age-appropriate responsibilities helps them learn that effort leads to rewards and that they are part of something bigger than themselves. What to do: Assign daily or weekly chores. Start small: feeding the pet, setting the table, putting away laundry. Increase responsibility with age. Tie privileges to effort. Instead of giving screen time automatically, say, “Once your room is tidy, then you can watch your show.” Avoid doing everything for them. Let them pack their own lunch or manage their homework folder (with support as needed). Teach problem-solving. Rather than fixing everything, guide them to find their own solutions: “What can you do if your toy is missing?” Children who take responsibility learn accountability, independence, and a healthy sense of pride in their contributions. 4. Modeling Gratitude: Teaching Appreciation Through Action Gratitude is the antidote to entitlement. Kids who appreciate what they have are less likely to demand more or take things for granted. And children learn this best not by lectures, but by watching their parents. What to do: Practice daily gratitude. Share what you’re thankful for at dinner or bedtime, and invite your child to do the same. Say “thank you” often—and mean it. Let them hear you thank store clerks, family members, even your child when they help. Write thank-you notes. After birthdays or holidays, help your child send notes or draw pictures to show appreciation. Point out blessings. Teach them to notice little things: “Aren’t we lucky to have a warm house on a cold day?” Grateful children develop a sense of contentment, humility, and awareness of others’ efforts on their behalf—key traits that prevent entitlement. Final Thoughts… Changing entitled behavior won’t happen overnight, but with consistency and connection, it’s very possible. Remember, children aren't born knowing how to be considerate, responsible, or grateful. They learn these qualities over time, with your help. By setting clear boundaries, building empathy, encouraging responsibility, and modeling gratitude, you’re giving your child the lifelong tools to be not only less entitled, but more kind, resilient, and socially capable.

Read about why boundaries are so important in parenting. Reach out for more help.