My bruised arms gave it away…
This is a hard one. Please, please, equip yourself and read to the end rather than thinking it doesn’t apply to you. At 19 I found myself in an emotionally and physically abusive relationship. It didn’t’ start that way, but a year in I was so broken I didn’t know how to get out. He […]
How to avoid the shame game
These are the things I say when my teen does something outside of our family values, the person I think they are, and the person I want them to be. “What were you thinking?!!”“Why did you do that?!”“You didn’t do what I asked!” It’s ok to feel frustrated and flabbergasted by your teen’s choices… …but […]
Fighting without freaking your teen out
What do you feel or think when you hear the word conflict? For most people, that word creates a physical reaction like fear, avoidance, terror, shutting down or running away. Studies also show an increase in heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature. Run away! Run away!! Unfortunately, conflict is a key ingredient for all […]
How do I set boundaries when my teen starts dating?
When you were your child’s world it was exhausting, but so much simpler. Then they made friends and it was scary, but easier to protect them. Now your teen is ready for dating and you are most DEFINITELY NOT! *imagination turns to panic*…. No, no, no, no! How do you keep them safe?! As a […]
My teenager left home and won’t come back
If your teenager has chosen to leave, this is for you. I acknowledge the level of heartbreak, despair, fear, and frustration you may be feeling. All your feelings are normal and ok, although challenging and uncomfortable. There’s no quick fix for this HARD situation. However, I can offer a few tools and strategies to help […]
How long should I ground my teenager?
“That’s it, you’re grounded!” An all too familiar phrase, right? Your teen has crossed the line AGAIN, and you think you’re going to lose your mind. Before you can stop, you find yourself saying the same words you grew up hearing. But it wouldn’t be complete without adding, “Go to your room and don’t come […]
How to raise an extrovert
Click here for a FREE assessment that you and your teen can take and compare notes on your results. Understanding your teen and their personality on a deeper level can remove judgement and create more understanding and compassion in your relationship. Here’s an overview of how extroverts operate and the best ways to support them […]
My teenager is giving me the silent treatment
The dreaded silent treatment… It’s frustrating, even infuriating, when your teen refuses to talk to you. Whether it’s a temporary power move or your teen choosing to go no-contact, disconnection from your child can feel like cutting your heart out and putting it through a blender. Your feelings are real and valid. You’re allowed to […]
My Teenager Won’t Stop Lying
Your teenager keeps lying, and no matter what discipline or consequences you try, they refuse to fess up. After everything you’ve done for your teen—everything you’ve sacrificed—this is how they treat you? Here’s some insight and strategies to help you approach this very hurtful and difficult situation in a way that strengthens your relationship rather […]
Teenagers and Free Time
You watch them laying in their rooms, playing video games, or watching TV, yet when it comes to chores and homework, they swear they didn’t have time. As a parent coach, I regularly hear from parents who are frustrated with how their teenager spends (or doesn’t), their free time. Your blood starts to boil and […]