Nina Lief, the late Manhattan parent-education pioneer, reminds us that all parents lose their tempers and yell at their kids sometimes. Sometimes parents are upset by other things and take out their frustration on the child. The child may be going through a period of transition in which he seems to be doing everything wrong. Parents have to recognize these periods and respond to them appropriately. If the parents are patient and understanding this stage will pass.
Parents have their moments too.
They may be tired or having difficulty coping, and may 'explode,' just the way the child sometimes does. But if this is an infrequent event, the effects are not lasting. We committed to checking in with each other each time we are successful or unsuccessful at putting these steps into practice. Whatever parenting challenge you're facing these days, find a fellow parent who is going through the same thing and try working on it together. You'll feel less alone and you might actually be able to help yourself - and each other.