Parents.....are you feeling stressed about college applications?

 By (over)helping them, I was not allowing them to learn how to manage a project - their college application process.  They struggled with project management when they got to college.  I was saying to them that I did not think they were capable of doing this on their own.  They did not develop belief in themselves the way that they could have.  Because they did not "own" the process, they actually were less likely to get things done, and done well. 

 What can you do differently?

 Ask them to come up with a detailed plan, including what they need to accomplish, and when they need to accomplish it by.  Ask them if they would like to take you through it.  Respect them if they say they have it under control.  Let them know that you are there for them if they want to ask for help.  And then breathe, and let go.  You are giving them a gift by allowing them to grow, and be the capable people they will be. 

 They may make mistakes.  If/when they do, you can ask them in a supportive tone what they learned from the mistake - do not blame or shame them - they will feel bad enough all by themselves.  If they miss a deadline, they will have to live with the consequences, and they will learn so much! 

 If you would like to learn more about Parenting the Positive Discipline Way, check out our fall class schedule at www.positivedisciplinewesternct.org..  You can also attend a free introductory class Monday, October 7, 10 AM-noon - Positive Discipline in the Christian Home - contact Laurie Matson (mlkk@charter.net) or Barbara Roeder (barbroeder22@gmail.com) to register.

Positive Discipline of Western CT promotes and encourages the development of life skills and respectful relationships in families, schools, and businesses in our local communities. We will provide classes to parents, caregivers, educators, and youth development workers, teaching how to raise a child using Positive Discipline skills.