Week 1:

Homework - MODULE 1: ​Self Care the Foundation for Success

  • Watch Video Lesson
  • Read Chapters 1, 2, and 3 in "Redirecting Children's Behavior”
  • Reflect on what you learned in the book or the video and share your favorite takeaway
  • Self-Care: Do (4) different nice things for yourself each week
  • Genuine Encounters:
    Offer One Genuine Encounter per Child per Day (pp 25-26): Describe one of these encounters.
  • If unable to be with your child, think about an issue where you can reflect on  being more present and how you might handle it next time.
    • Example: One genuine encounter I had with my child was after dinner. Instead of rushing through cleanup and getting ready for bed, I sat down with them on the sofa and we had a meaningful conversation about their day at school. It was just 10 minutes, but it was focused, undistracted, and genuine, which made them feel loved, valued, heard and connected.
  • Write down (20) "I am" statements, share (10) of them here.
  • Commit to not spanking or making your child feel worse in order to do better.

Weekly Commitments:
  • Positive Discipline: Commit to not spanking or making your child feel worse in order to do better (pp 56).
  • Share a time this week when your child misbehaved or struggled and, instead of reacting, you responded positively. If you were not with your child, think of a circumstance that you could respond differently to in the future. 
    • Examples: When 12-year-old Sam threw a fit about going back and forth between his parents' homes, I used the ACT method.
  • ​Acknowledge Feelings: 'Sam, I see that you're really upset about switching houses. It must be really hard for you.'
  • Communicate the Limit: 'Yelling and throwing a fit won’t help the situation."
  • Target Alternatives: 'When you’re calm, let’s focus on some solutions.  I’ll check on you in ten minutes.”
    • After 10 minutes, I knocked and entered the room. “Are you ready to share?'  Sam replied, I  miss hanging out with my friends.” I listened and affirmed: 'I know you miss your friends. Friends are important. Would you like to invite a friend over this weekend? Let’s make a list of things that could make going back and forth easier.
    • By acknowledging Sam's feelings, setting clear limits, and finding solutions together, we improved our communication and built a positive environment." 
  • Arrange a time for my child(ren) to get on a zoom call with Coach Sue. 
  • Discuss with your child(ren): What you might say, “Your mom/dad and I both love you and we know it hasn’t been easy for you. Sometimes parents need help too. Which is why we are taking a class to learn how to co-parent better. Coach Sue wants to meet you briefly on a call. When would you like to talk with Coach Sue?"
  • Keep a journal for reflection and taking notes.
  • By the end of the week, reflect on your experiences, both positive and challenging, and note any improvements in communication and relationships with your child and or the other parent.
  • Complete this Weekly Check-in Worksheet