America's Supernanny's Tips & Techniques (Episode 1)

Did you catch the premiere of "America's Supernanny" last night? Here are some of the techniques I introduced. Each week I'll share some helpful parenting tips and tools from on the latest episode. Try these out in your home! 

HOUSE RULES: It's important to establish a simple list of "house rules" that your children will expect and understand. They should be written in a positive way (avoiding the words NO and DON’T), placed at the child's level and have visual cues so that younger children can recognize them too.

 CALM DOWN CORNER: This is my fundamental discipline technique that works for children between 2 and 8yrs. It’s a way to train and teach your child that there are consequences when a house rule is broken.

SIMPLE SEPARATION: Is used to lessen the explosive behavior that separation anxiety may cause.  It is a quick simple way to get the parents out the house as quickly as possible with little to no fuss. There are 4 simple steps:

1. Hug and kiss your child
2. Say good bye
3. Walk out the door
4. Make sure to have something fun set up for them to immediately turn around and do. It will distract them from Mom and Dad leaving and let their mind go to something they'll enjoy. (In last night's episode the kids made smoothies and frosted cupcakes with their babysitter).

POSITIVE POSTS: I believe in speaking life in to our children. Leaving post-it's in their room with hand written notes on them is a wonderful way to let your child know how amazing they are.

DADDY DAUGHTER TIME: To all the dads out there, take note! Spending quality time with your daughter is so important. You are the role model for your children and will set the standard for every man that will later come into their lives. There is nothing like knowing you are “Daddy’s little girl”.

You can also watch the full epsiode for free online now! Tune in to "America's Supernanny" Tuesdays at 9/8c on Lifetime and come back next week for more solutions to parenting dilemmas.