ONLINE PARENTING COACH

The number of kids living in a single parent family has doubled in recent years. In fact, statistics indicate that single parent families represent 30% of U.S. households, while 25% represent two parent households. Based on current trends, there are predictions that upwards of 70% of kids born since 1980 will spend (or have spent) some time living in a single parent home before their 18th birthday. These kids are not doomed to failure. The following strategies are offered to the single parent who is determined to raise a good child despite the myths of doom and gloom: 1. ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT— Adults and kids do better when single parenthood is perceived as a viable option and not as a pathological situation. Start with a positive attitude and focus on the benefits of single parenting, such as less conflict and tension in the home. Many single moms and dads treasure their newfound autonomy and independence and feel hopeful about the future. 2. CREATE A STABLE, NURTURING...

Teen pregnancy can be one of the most difficult experiences an adolescent ever faces, but there are steps you can take to help your daughter deal with teen pregnancy. Understand how to support your adolescent as she faces the consequences of teen pregnancy. Provide support— Teen pregnancy is often a crisis for a young girl and her family, as well as the baby's father and his family. Common reactions include anger, guilt and denial. Your adolescent may also experience anxiety, fear, shock and depression. Your adolescent needs your love, guidance and support now more than ever. Talk to your adolescent about what she's feeling and the choices ahead. Discuss the options— A pregnant adolescent — along with her parents, the father of the baby and his parents — has a few options to consider: • End the pregnancy. Some pregnant adolescents choose to end their pregnancies. If your daughter is considering abortion, make sure she understands the risks and the emotional consequenc...

It's only natural for all adolescents to challenge authority at times. There is a type of adolescent that can take this to the extreme. They are referred to as "defiant adolescents" and can be very trying for parents to communicate with. Defiant adolescents are not your typical adolescents. They will not challenge your authority once in awhile. Defiant adolescents will try to challenge almost every statement that you make as a parent. Don't feel special though, they won't do this to just you as their parents. They will do this with teachers, relatives, and authority figures alike. Finding a way to communicate with adolescents who fall into this behavioral category can be tough, but it can be accomplished if you as a parent can exhibit a thick skin and persistence in your effort to get through to your adolescent. The typical defiant adolescent feels that the world is against them and nobody knows how they feel. They will feel that all rules are made t...