by Sara Bean, M.Ed., Parental Support Line Advisor

What causes bad child behavior? James Lehman says it happens because children don’t yet know how to solve problems effectively. To put it another way, they’re trying to handle many of the situations that life throws at them by acting out. They do this, frankly, because it’s working for them. But here’s the truth: If you don’t find out what problem your child is trying to solve with his Read more »

Is your obnoxious and disrespectful child giving you a bad headache? Does he embarrass you and challenge you as parent? Does he talk rudely, offensively or disrespect you especially when there are guests around? Perhaps, he felt a sense of achievement if you are loss of words right in front of them. He says things like ‘My mom doesn’t even know what Facebook is’, ‘She does that because she’s afraid of dad’, ‘Mom cooks the worst lasagna I ever had’ or ‘That lousy woman can’t play any instruments at all.’

Totally disrespectful! Has this happen to you before? Take a deep breath! You can handle this tactfully if you learn how to parent. Read more »

by James Lehman, MSW

Note from Elisabeth Wilkins, EP Editor: Empowering Parents will continue to honor James Lehman’s teachings by helping you to use his techniques in your daily life with your children. One last gift James left us were the many interviews, articles and audio recordings he created before his death. Even in his final act, he still had much to share with all of us. James’ goal was always to empower parents. We hope this article helps you in those moments when you’re having trouble dealing with your child’s hurtful language and excuses.

“I was just kidding! Can’t you take a joke?” If your child gives you this excuse after he’s said or done something rude, it might leave you feeling frustrated and unsure of Read more »