Positive Discipline Parenting Blog

Sproutable's Positive Discipline blog.

Real tips. Real talk. Read & grow.

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Teaching Persistence

When we think of the character traits and skills we hope our children have when they grow up, persistence is likely on the list. This is because researchers like Alfie Kohn, Daniel Pink, and  Carol[...]

By Julietta Skoog

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Teaching Persistence

When we think of the character traits and skills we hope our children have when they grow up, persistence is likely on the list. This is because researchers like Alfie Kohn, Daniel Pink, and  Carol Dweck, write that persistence, when built within, makes us more successful and happier.  We all want our children to be […]

By Julietta Skoog

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Feelings, the First Foreign Language I Learned as a Parent

How will we practice? How are we going to teach them to name their feelings, express themselves clearly and assertively, and not internalize or explode their stress or negative emotions? When our children are scared, mad, or so sad, their irrational brain has taken over and is only able to yell, “Fight! Run away! Freeze!” We can guide our children into their “rational” brain by helping them feel safe and understood, while teaching them to name and express their feelings in positive ways.

By Julietta Skoog

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What to Do When Nanny Kids Bite

The first time I encountered a biting situation, I was caring for two absolutely delightful toddlers in a nanny share. These kiddos had grown up together since they were about six months old and had become great friends. Both were (and continue to be) kind, loving, and sweet children...

By Danielle Taylor

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Avoiding Baby Sleep Transitions

Are you finding yourself avoiding a sleep transition with your baby? Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed at the thought of starting, worried about how it might unfold, and how it might impact you and your family. If so, please know that you're not alone in these sentiments. I've been there, and navigated a similar situation with my own baby! Despite being well-versed in sleep coaching methodologies, I still found myself avoiding a transition, and that's because no matter who you are, transitions can be hard and stressful! 

By Jade Folk

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Five Things to Remember in the Tough Moments with Kids

Nannying is undoubtedly the best job I’ve ever had.  I truly love nannying.  Nonetheless, there are still tough days with kids, and more frequently, tough moments.  The best nannies and the sweetest kiddos still have conflict, challenges, bad moods, and miscommunication.  Here are five reminders that have helped me get through those extra tough moments […]

By Danielle Taylor

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Infant Nap Transitions

Infant naps change drastically over the first few years of life. As your little one grows, so do their sleep needs. See below for practical insights to help you smoothly navigate the first year of baby’s nap changes, ensuring both you and your baby rest easy during the transitions.

By Jade Folk

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Winning Cooperation or Winning a Power Struggle? 

In Positive Discipline, we talk about “winning cooperation” from the children we work with. Why would we spend our time & extra effort on “winning cooperation” over just fostering obedience? Why do you want to win cooperation instead of winning the power struggle?

By Danielle Taylor

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How to Stop Negative Interaction Cycles in Relationships

We all fall into repetitive patterns of relating to our partner or our children. This is normal. I call them cycles of interaction, or cycles for short. These cycles can be positive and promote connection. These cycles can also feel like negative ruts that prevent connection, and leave us feeling frustrated with ourselves, with the other person, with the situation, or all of the above!

By Guest

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When Kids Say Really Mean Things to Nannies

Nothing can prepare you for that first time a nanny charge says hurtful things to you. You would think it gets easier but it never does. You are human after all, with feelings too. It is so hard to imagine that even at 3, 4 or 5 years old that vitriol will come out of […]

By Julietta Skoog

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When Kids Say Really Mean Things

Nothing can prepare you for that first time your child says hurtful things to you. You would think it gets easier but it never does. You are human after all, with feelings too. It is so hard to imagine when they are sweet little babes in your arms that vitriol will come out of their mouths…maybe as teenagers, but that is so far away. You have time. Nope.

By Julietta Skoog

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