POPSUGAR Moms

How to Discipline Toddlers When You're Pushed to the Limit

Mary Beth Sammons — Fri, 24 May 2013 13:50:16 PDT

We all know those parents of 2-year-olds who claim they've got the terrible 2s under control and their kid is perfectly disciplined because they have the secret behavioral formula. But for most moms of toddlers, it can be incredibly frustrating trying to keep under control a child who is at an age when he is not exactly a rational human being.

That's why moms like Danielle P. want to know what is reasonable when setting behavior standards for toddlers. She says she's tried and failed at "everything" to try to discipline her "independent, determined, stubborn, and adventurous" 22-month-old daughter. Lisa A. feels similarly frustrated, noting, "Sometimes I feel like I'd get more of a response talking to/disciplining a rock."

So what do you do when you're pushed to the limit and feel like nothing is working with your misbehaving toddler? While there's no one-size-fits-all approach to discipline - some moms maintain a good spanking is the key to disciplining a toddler, while others are adamant about avoiding spanking - many Circle of Moms members agree on the following tried-and-true strategies for helping tots learn good behavior and helping moms not feel so frustrated in the process.

Keep reading.

48 Ways to Repurpose Your Kid's Old Stuff

Shari Wargo Stamps — Fri, 24 May 2013 13:07:22 PDT

When you're pregnant, it's exciting to buy everything you might possibly need for the new baby, but once your little one is born, you realize just how quickly these kids outgrow their once-special items. Some of us don't really think about holding onto baby jars, cribs, puzzles, or even kids' shoe boxes, but other moms have found crafty ways to reuse them. From swinging benches to cute votive candles, we're sharing 48 amazing (and easy) things to make from the outgrown baby or kid stuff you may have considered tossing. Take a gander before you call the garbageman for an extra pickup - you won't be disappointed!

Source: Bag of Pretty

Moms' Advice to Young Women Who Want Kids Someday

Circle of Moms Editors — Fri, 24 May 2013 12:35:35 PDT

With graduation season at hand, many young women are beginning new chapters of their lives and thinking deeply about their futures, including if and how motherhood will fit into their lives. So we asked women who are already in the thick of motherhood to offer words of wisdom for graduating women who want to be moms someday. Here is a selection of their heartfelt and encouraging advice for future moms.

How Praise Can Hurt Kids

Sharon Silver — Fri, 24 May 2013 12:00:50 PDT

Graduation is the telltale sign that announces the next wave will soon be leaving for college! Parents become wistful, hoping and praying that their child's self-esteem is high enough to weather any of the life storms they'll have to face without their parents nearby.

Can't relate? That's probably because you're in the beginning of the process, the stage when you're helping your children discover just how capable they really are.

Over the last few years, several books have emerged sharing new research regarding a child's self-esteem, what works, and what doesn't work.

Prior to this new research, it was believed that copious amounts of praise would magically increase a child's self-esteem. As Circle of Moms reader Beth W. suggests, "Praise your daughter lots, which will help her self esteem/confidence as she grows up."

However, the new research shows us that there is more to the story. It's the way a parent praises a child that is the key to whether or not a child achieves high self-esteem.

Keep reading.

5 Ways to Boost Your Teen's Self-Esteem

Patricia-Anne Tom — Fri, 24 May 2013 07:00:32 PDT

As teens blossom into young adults, their bodies change, emotions run at an all-time high, and peer pressure is immense. So it's little surprise when some start to question their self-worth. Nevertheless, no parent wants their child to be self-conscious. "How can I help a young teen girl who has low self-esteem?" Circle of Moms member Lois asks the community for advice.

Moms Tracey O. and Maureen P. seek similar feedback: "Anyone know how to boost your teen's self-esteem?" "My 16-year-olds have very little," Maureen explains. Her teens will not wear shorts, go swimming, or join any groups or sports. Plus, they don't believe they are smart, and they don't have many friends. "Help!" she implores. If you, too, want to boost your child's self-esteem, here are five key recommendations from Circle of Moms members