REALITY CHECK: Did you know that tweens and teens say one of their biggest daily challenges are conflicts with peers? The Boys and Girls Club of America surveyed over 46,000 teens coast to coast and found that one of their biggest concerns was day to day conflicts without knowing how to solve them (without a [...]

Children with poor self-beliefs often have bombarded themselves for so long with a steady stream of derogatory messages. Their potential for success is greatly limited, because they don’t believe in their capabilities. Self-talk is a critical part of how children acquire beliefs about themselves. One of the most powerful ways to help your youngster develop [...]

“Why should I bother? You know they won’t choose me.” “What’s the point? I’ll never make the team.” “Why are you making me go? You know I won’t have fun.” Let’s face it: Kids with pessimistic attitudes are among the most frustrating breeds. They give up easily, believe anything they do won’t make a difference, [...]

By Michele Borba We’re always known that laughter makes the home a happier place. But did you also know that studies have found that humor also ranks among the top qualities children value in their parents? The fact is kids do appreciate us when we’re less-stressed and with a sense of humor. What better way [...]

By Michele Borba What parent doesn’t hope their kids achieve and do well in life? But how do you know when you’re pushing your kids too much? How do you tell when your expectations are unrealistic or just plain not right for your children? A big secret of good parenting is to know how to [...]

Yesterday on the Today Show, I spoke with Natalie Morales about clingy kids. Natalie asked me to come on air and offer her sister tips for dealing with her three-year-old daughter’s clinginess. Here are a few tips I gave. (The whole Today segment is available on MSBNC or Today.com to view).  Excessive clinginess is a common [...]