Alana
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Time-in vs. Timeout: How to decide what’s right for your family
Pop psychology is littered with information on the consequences of timeouts and why parents should use time-ins instead. The truth is, it isn’t as cut and dry as that. Inside you will find info on positive discipline including time-ins as well as what research says about both disciplinary techniques. The research on time-ins vs. timeouts […] Continue reading
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It’s Science. Dropping negative language improves child behaviour.
We tend to underestimate how negative language impacts children. Find out why it is a less effective form of discipline, what research on neurobiology says about how to speak more effectively and find positive phrases to improve listening and misbehaviour. Includes a printable cheatsheet at the bottom of this post We had just gotten back […] Continue reading
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The analogy that will change how you view your child’s misbehaviour
When a child’s behaviour is unmanageable, the whole family can feel it’s in a state of chaos. Equipped with one powerful analogy, parents can develop a protocol to turn their child’s behaviour around. These strategies are rooted in developmental and psychological research and can have immediate effects. Through the glass walls of the vineyard restaurant, […] Continue reading
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Breaking the golden rule of screen time is better for your family
Children are inundated with digital media. As parents, we know our children shouldn’t be on screens for more than two hours a day. However, using this one rule as your guide can actually work against you. Using insights from research and the sponsor of this post, Wellbeing.Google, you can successfully limit screen time and promote […] Continue reading
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Paediatrician shares how to promote healthy eating in picky toddlers
Your baby would eat anything is now a picky toddler. What happened? Find out how to promote healthy food choices and conquer fussy eating with tips from a paediatrician who specializes in picky eating. We are at a family gathering at the end of the summer. The patio is teaming with uncles, aunts, family friends, and […] Continue reading
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15+ calming toddler activities that are simple and fun
Whether it’s when a toddler gives up her nap or when a parent simply needs some quiet time, these calming toddler activities are gold. All of them are perfect for open-ended play. Most are indoor kids activities and use common household items. Their screen-free and very simple to set up. When my almost-three-year-old daughter seemed […] Continue reading
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The best consequences for kids drop threats and problem-solve instead
Research has shown certain consequences for kids undermine the goal of raising good children. However, natural and logical consequences are invaluable ways to teach children. Learn more below. First, there was a pop! Then a snap! My ears were already ringing from screaming and now it sounded like a cap gun was going off around me. […] Continue reading
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Brilliant Tips to Ease Separation Anxiety in Children
Separation anxiety is so hard on parents and children. For a parent, it is brutal to see your child devastated. Then leaving them in that state of devastation feels terrible. Fortunately, there are powerful strategies that will help your child feel empowered when you’re gone. Whether you’re dealing with separation anxiety in children who are […] Continue reading
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Research says this is how to use positive parenting from a position of strength
To many, positive parenting, also known as authoritative parenting, sounds like a misnomer. If you take away punishment, how will a child know who is in charge? Find out how to execute positive parenting from a position of strength and raise well-adjusted, responsible children. Last week, a question popped up in the Parenting from the […] Continue reading
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How to Make Bouncy Balls: A fun, hands-on science lesson
If your child is slime-obsessed, you will want to check out this spin how to make slime. While the ingredients are the same, the result is different and exciting! Here you will learn how to make bouncy balls. This simple kids activity is perfect for hands-on learning to teach children about chemical reactions. One of […] Continue reading
About Me
Hi, I’m Alana. When I’m not nursing cold, stale coffee, I usually can be found with the baby on my hip, barefoot, and racing after my two older kids.
Thanks to a degree in psychology and a free-range childhood backing onto an expansive evergreen forest, positive parenting and play-based learning are my passions.