Praise your child's accomplishments in perspective. Parents sometimes feel they have to give a standing ovation to anything their child does. This school year, provide specific praise if your son decides to build his own kite for the science fair. It may not soar, but you can comment on his creative use of string and plastic bags. Relax and laugh with your children.
Children benefit from seeing adults use humor in a positive way.
Instead of yelling, have a race to see who gets dressed in the quickest time. The winner gets to choose desert at dinner. Comment on how amazing it is that your family could oversleep and yet get out the door in such a short amount of time. Studies show that optimists have a higher level of self-confidence. Encourage positive risk taking.