by: Henrietta Joyce

Dr Phil in his effective parenting survey of 17,000 people found that the two top challenges facing parents were making punishment work and improving school performance. In my experience as a class teacher and coach I have noticed that the biggest obstacle to maintaining effective discipline within the home is a lack of constructive, consistency discipline. Effective discipline should be positive, constructive and for correction rather than punitive. Many parents look upon discipline as a last resort when they are in a rage and therefore were confused and inconsistent in their use of Time Out.

By Christopher McCarthy

I am the father of a child who had panic attacks. I am also a psychologist. Professionally, I know how to treat anxiety but I had to figure out how to do that as a dad. Believe me it is fundamentally different. Forget professional perspective, this is my precious child! I made a lot of mistakes but I learned some things. Finding a way to parent that includes psychological understanding is key. Here are some observations from living with my two perspectives.

Author: Sheila Sudlow Of Cheeky Chums

We advised one mum how she could manage her shopping trips better with a 3 year old and a 1 year old in tow. Children can become bored very easy so the trick is to let them become involved with the shopping so it doesnt turn into a nightmare for you. If you dread going shopping because your little one or ones will play up, here are ways they can help you without you becoming stressed, resulting in you giving up after buying only a few of the items you need and instead allowing you to actually enjoy the outing better.

Author: Shen-Li Lee

For a first time parent, it is important to realise that even the best behaved toddler will have an occasional temper tantrum. Temper tantrums are a normal part of childhood development and can vary depending on the nature and temperament of your child. It is also important to know that your child's temper tantrums are not necessarily a result of poor parenting. Family members and others may judge you on your child's temper tantrums and you should ignore them.