...There is, however, a lesser know but effective alternative for finding solutions. In this approach, parents focus their attention on identifying what was happening at the point there wasn't a problem. Using my example, something must have been happening which enabled my children to "not fight" before they began to fight. Something was happening which enabled my kids to keep their hands to themselves. What was it? Maybe there was a lively family conversation going on before the fighting began. If so, re-engaging the kids in a conversation would be a good solution to try. Maybe the kids were getting along better when they were excited about arriving at our destination. Since we were returning home, maybe we could think of something exciting they could expect upon our arrival back home. It is surprising how many parents overlook the fact that problem-free times can hold the key to some excellent solutions...

Tags: communications & discipline