You know you shouldn’t yell. You ’ve read the books. You’ve watched the reels. You ’ve promised yourself, “Next time I WILL stay calm. I will not  lose it AT my kid.” And then it happens again. You’ve asked your 12-year-old three times to start homework. Or to unload the dishwasher. Or to get off their phone. They ignore you. Or say “No.” Or snap back with attitude. Your chest tightens. Your jaw clenches. Your voice gets sharper. And suddenly you’re in it — directing your ang

Ever felt like you were stuck in the same pattern endlessly arguing with your child/teen?   Does it seem like you just don’t get each other and are constantly at odds?   Want to know why this is such a common occurrence in most families? Even more, are you dying to find out how to get out of this awful cycle of telling-yelling frustration? How can your family create ease and cooperation for the basics like getting out the door on time, homework done and chores completed witho

I almost ruined Thanksgiving this year. There I was, standing in the kitchen sautéing onions for the stuffing—one of my favorite holiday rituals—when my daughter walked in and asked, “Do we have enough butter for the gluten-free apple pie crumble?” “No,” I said, “but your grandparents are bringing more when they get here in a few hours. We’ll have plenty.” Her face tightened. “But I need it now . We have to go to the store.” That familiar intensity flooded into her voice, and

If you’re a hard-working parent—juggling responsibilities, managing a household, and trying to keep everyone on track—you might wonder why your kids don’t respond to your clear instructions, routines, or logical explanations. You love them more than anything, yet find yourself yelling, threatening, or withdrawing when they ignore you or melt down. It can feel confusing and painful: How can I handle so much at work and in life, but lose it so easily at home? You’re not alone.

I have exciting news! I was invited to be a guest on Claire Laughlin's This Leader Podcast... So the next time you walk, drive, clean or...

The other day a Mom I coach shared with me her morning struggle. Her 9-year-old daughter has carpool every morning, and without fail, the...

For some families, the end of summer brings the usual mix of excitement and nerves. For others, it brings a knot in the stomach and a...

Parents, If you're feeling worn down by your child's defiance, resistance, or outbursts — you're not alone. Whether your 9-year-old melts...

For most, school has ended which means new schedules, changes in routines, childcare challenges for many, and more times with kids.  ...

Allison's gift is to shine a light on where families are stuck, mired in conflict. As a parent coach, she has a calm reassuring presence...

One of the hardest parts of being a parent for me is supporting my kids when they are feeling intense emotions. Like anxiety. Or anger....

One of the hardest parts of being a parent for me was setting limits. I found the process of creating boundaries/agreements that my child...

Benefits of using a parent coach to learn effective boundaries.

by Allison Livingston, 5 Steps to Connect  Parent Question: "The Dealing with your strong willed teen blog had great information, thank...

Stormy, emotional and inflexible was the climate in our home for six challenging months during our daughter’s freshman year of high...

Kids hit. They lie. They fight and push back. Siblings argue. They refuse to do what we ask. These 'bad' behaviors are both awful and OK....

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a mix of joy and connection, but also stress and extra to do’s, especially for parents....

I thought being right and getting the right answer was the goal. Doesn't everyone want to be competent, right, and achieve good results?...

Have you ever waited at the grocery store checkout line and your child starts to whine for something? You're standing right in front of...

Teen-Parent relationships are hard. Parent coaches can bridge the conflicts and teach the skills that will transform your family dynamics.