The Soft-Spoken Parent
Most of us are like writers of fiction. We take our life experiences and weave them into stories. But our stories are never entirely objective. We write to make a point. We color every … Read more
Just Listen
Tag: Humility
Breathe Deeply The Soft-Spoken Parent
A man was guiding several youngsters through the exhibits in a museum. He was obviously impatient with their side trips and slow pace. Finally, he blurted out, “Hurry up! If you stop to look at stuff, we … Read more
Take a Mental Vacation
The Soft-Spoken Parent
When something bothers us, we humans often choose anger. We rehearse the offense, build our case, and gather evidence for the prosecution. Anger can even feel energizing. Something is wrong! Someone needs to do … Read more
Reprove Betimes with Sharpness: The Soft-Spoken Parent
When we are inclined to justify our anger at our children, we may point to the scriptural directive: “Reproving betimes with sharpness, when moved upon by the Holy Ghost” (Doctrine and Covenants 121:43).
There it is: sharpness!… Read more
Listen to Their Hearts: The Soft-Spoken Parent
When our children struggle with pain and disappointment, we are often tempted to jump in with advice. We may also investigate, correct, lecture, or even get angry about the choices that contributed to their trouble.
There is … Read more
The Soft-Spoken Parent: Look on Them with Compassion
When children behave badly, we often see defiance, carelessness, or selfishness. Compassion invites us to look deeper. Their difficult behavior may be the outward sign of confusion, fear, discouragement, fatigue, or pain. Compassion does not ignore a … Read more
The Soft-Spoken Parent: Look into the Child’s Heart
We often judge children’s behavior by its effect on us rather than by the intention in their hearts. If their actions—or inactions—irritate us, we may assume they are malicious, careless, or irresponsible.
Blaming children for every irritation … Read more
The Soft-Spoken Parent: Saying No to Anger and Yes to Laughter
Every parent knows the moment: irritation rises, words gather force, and we stand at the edge of saying something we may regret. In this series, I have offered religious and research reasons to resist anger. I have … Read more
The Soft-Spoken Parent The Process of Change and Strategy 1
The Soft-Spoken Parent
The Process of Change and Strategy 1
As you study this series on soft-spoken parenting and the fifty-five strategies for preventing contention with your children, remember that some things we do will help us … Read more
Getting Free of the Father of Contention
Anger often feels irresistible. A child breaks a glass or hits a sibling, and we erupt. Can that automatic reaction be interrupted? Can volcanic anger be replaced by calm helpfulness? In the moment, changing course can seem … Read more