There are an estimated 1.46 to 2.46 million children with ADHD in the United States, constituting 3 to 5 percent of the school student population.
It has been documented that approximately 25 to 30 percent of all children with ADHD also have learning disabilities. Likewise, children with ADHD have coexisting psychiatric disorders at a much higher rate.
These children and their parents need the skills to enhance attention, contain impulsivity, increase delay and manage their motors. Join a fruitful conversation as you learn to help your child thrive with ADHD and associated challenges.
Teleconference TUESDAY FEB 3, 2009 Thriving with ADHD - Whether your children are diagnosed with ADHD or not, this teleconference is for you if your children are overactive, impulsive or have executive function challenges.
Time: 11 am in Phoenix 1 pm ET 10 am PT
Cost: First class Free
Call in line: 712-429-0690 pin 884068#.
Hear you there!
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Friday, January 30, 2009
Increase Fats Decrease Depression
The popular idea today is that omega-3 fats such as fish and flax oils are antidotes for depression. The truth is that there are many healthy, natural fats that work this way. Fats such as organic butter from grass-fed animals, unrefined coconut oil, and extra virgin olive oil help stabilize blood sugar while they enhance mental function and improve mood.
Fats are vitally important for neurological function and mood. The low-fat diet craze of recent years has done no favors for our brains or our emotional well-being. Like organic animal protein, fats provide substance and sustenance to deal with daily stress and emotional trauma.
One way to appreciate the vital role that fats play in neurological health is to consider the ketogenic diet, a medical dietary therapy that is sometimes used in hospitals for people with neurological disorders. The diet calls for 80% of calories to come from high-quality fats, such as organic butter, ghee, unrefined coconut oils, extra virgin olive oil, and fish oils. Such quality fats help to protect both the myelin lining of the central nervous system and also the brain, which is mostly fat and cholesterol.
The high-fat ketogenic diet is used especially for children and the elderly. It is a quick remedy for nervous system disorders that may stem from reactions to vaccines. It can also be used for neurological issues such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s Disease. Some scientists believe that a high-fat diet can actually help repair the myelin lining around the nerves that are affected by a variety of chronic neurological diseases.
More evidence for the role of fats in mental health comes from the most recent, Winter 2008 issue of Wise Traditions, published by the Weston Price Foundation. In The Pursuit of Happiness: How Nutrient-dense Animal Fats Promote Mental and Emotional Health, Chris Masterjohn states, “Modern science has now elucidated the role of nutrient-dense animal fats in preventing mental illness and supporting the focused, goal-oriented behavior needed to confront challenges and pursue a happy, satisfying, and successful life.” Source: Health Counselor, Carol Kenney www.pathways4health.com.
Fats are vitally important for neurological function and mood. The low-fat diet craze of recent years has done no favors for our brains or our emotional well-being. Like organic animal protein, fats provide substance and sustenance to deal with daily stress and emotional trauma.
One way to appreciate the vital role that fats play in neurological health is to consider the ketogenic diet, a medical dietary therapy that is sometimes used in hospitals for people with neurological disorders. The diet calls for 80% of calories to come from high-quality fats, such as organic butter, ghee, unrefined coconut oils, extra virgin olive oil, and fish oils. Such quality fats help to protect both the myelin lining of the central nervous system and also the brain, which is mostly fat and cholesterol.
The high-fat ketogenic diet is used especially for children and the elderly. It is a quick remedy for nervous system disorders that may stem from reactions to vaccines. It can also be used for neurological issues such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s Disease. Some scientists believe that a high-fat diet can actually help repair the myelin lining around the nerves that are affected by a variety of chronic neurological diseases.
More evidence for the role of fats in mental health comes from the most recent, Winter 2008 issue of Wise Traditions, published by the Weston Price Foundation. In The Pursuit of Happiness: How Nutrient-dense Animal Fats Promote Mental and Emotional Health, Chris Masterjohn states, “Modern science has now elucidated the role of nutrient-dense animal fats in preventing mental illness and supporting the focused, goal-oriented behavior needed to confront challenges and pursue a happy, satisfying, and successful life.” Source: Health Counselor, Carol Kenney www.pathways4health.com.
Dr. Michele Borba on Manners
Simple Mom-Tested Secrets to Raising Well-Mannered Kids
By Dr. Michele Borba, www.simplemommysecrets.com
Excerpt from 12 Simple Secrets Real Moms Know: Getting Back to Basics and Raising Happy Kids by Michele Borba (Jossey-Bass Publishers, 2006)
All three of my sons attended a wonderful cooperative nursery school led by an incredibly caring teacher, Jeanette Thompson. The very first impression I had of the school was how well-mannered the children were. And, through the years as I put in my "coop" hours, I understood why her students were so polite: Mrs. Thompson never taught manners at a special time, instead she taught students manners all day long through her own example. Every sentence she ever uttered contained the word "please," "thank you," or "excuse me." It was impossible for her students not to be polite. She used to always tell the moms, "Manners are caught, not taught." Was she ever right! I also learned an important secret from my children's teacher: The first step to teaching kids good manners is to make sure you model them yourself.
Make no mistake, Mom: Courtesy does enhance our kids' chances of success! Scores of studies find that well-mannered children are more popular and do better in school. Notice how often they're invited to others' homes? Kids like to be around kids who are nice. Listen to teachers speak about them using such positive accolades. Courteous children have an edge later in life: the business world clearly tells us their first interview choices are those applicants displaying good social graces. They also get more "second" job interviews, and usually even the job. You just can't help but react positively to people who are polite and courteous. By prioritizing polite behaviors with our children, we can enhance their social competence and give them a big boost towards success. Here are five simple secrets to enhance good social graces in your children and give them that edge for a better life.
* Reward Courtesy. Good manners are among the simplest skills to teach children because they are expressed in just a few very specific behaviors. We can instantly point out good or poor manners to our kids: "Wow, nice manners! Did you notice the smile on Grandma's face when you thanked her for dinner?" or "Eating before waiting for the others to sit down wasn't polite," We can modify our children's manners: "Next time, remember to say 'Excuse Me' when you walk in front of someone." And we can always tune them up: "Before you ask for the dish, say "Please."
* Point Out the Value of Manners. Discuss with your children the value of good manners. You might say, "Using good manners helps you gain the respect of others. It's also a great way to meet new friends. Polite people just make the world a kinder place." Once kids understand the impact good manners have on others, they're more likely to incorporate courtesy in their own behavior.
* Teach a Manner a Week. When my children were young I taught them a jingle, "Hearts, like doors, will open with ease, if you learn to use these keys." We'd then print a manner a week on a large paper key and tape it on our kitchen door as a reminder. Every child in the neighborhood could recite not only our jingle, but name the manners that are the "keys to opening hearts." It helped me recognize "catching new manners" doesn't happen overnight: it takes consistency and effort to enhance them in our kids. So, how about teaching a "Manner a Week"? Write the manner on an index card, post it on your refrigerator, and then hold a contest to see how many times family members hear another member use the word. Here's a few to get you started: "Please., Thank you., May I?, Excuse me, I'm sorry., Pardon me., I'm glad to meet you,, You go first., and May I introduce....?"
* Correct Impoliteness Immediately. When your child uses an impolite comment, immediately correct the behavior by using the three "Bs" of discipline: "Be Brief, Be Private so no one but you and your child is aware you're correcting your child, and Be Specific." Here's how two parents used the three "Bs": Juan's mom waited for a private moment to point out his poor manners to him, "Starting your dinner without waiting first for Grandma to sit down, was impolite. Being polite means always respecting older people." Waiting for the right time when only Juan could hear his mom's correction, preserved his dignity but still let him know his behavior was unacceptable. When Kevin used a racist comment, his father immediately used the three Bs letting him know it was unacceptable: "That was a bigoted comment and could hurt someone's feelings. Please, don't ever use that word again."
* Practice Table Manners. A friend of mine who really wanted to make sure her children "caught good manners" started a unique family tradition: Once a month, she asks her children to help her plan a party. The children plan the menu, set their table--with only their "company dishes"--arrange a centerpiece of hand-picked flowers, and then sit in their "Sunday best." The party is just for their family, and it's the time my friend helps her children practice table manners such as "please pass," "thank you," "May I be excused?" (as well keeping your napkin on your lap, chewing with your mouth closed, waiting for others to speak, and learning which fork to use with each course). Yes, it takes a lot of work, but she swears it's worth it, especially when so many people comment on how well-behaved her children are.
A recent survey conducted by US News & World Report found nine out of ten Americans felt the breakdown of common courtesy has become a serious problem in this country. A huge seventy-eight percent of those polled said manners and good social graces have significantly eroded over past ten years, and is a major contributor to the breakdown of our values in this country. What a sad commentary! Using good manners will enhance your child's reputation in all arenas-home, school, and the community. Besides, kids like to be around other kids who are courteous and nice. So start boosting your child's social graces by using these simple secrets in your family.
Michele Borba, Ed.D. is a mom of three, a former teacher, and renowned educational consultant who has presented workshops to one million parents and teachers worldwide. Dr. Borba is the author of 12 Simple Secrets Real Moms Know: Getting Back to Basics and Raising Happy Kids (Jossey-Bass, April 2006).She is a frequent guest on Today, The Early Show, The View, and Fox & Friends. She is also the award-winning author of over 20 books including Parents Do Make a Difference, Don't Give Me That Attitude!, No More Misbehavin': 38 Difficult Behaviors and How to Stop Them, and Nobody Likes Me, Everybody Hates Me. Dr. Borba is an advisory board member for Parents. For more strategies and tips visit www.simplemommysecrets.com.
© 2006 by Michele Borba www.simplemommysecrets.com.
By Dr. Michele Borba, www.simplemommysecrets.com
Excerpt from 12 Simple Secrets Real Moms Know: Getting Back to Basics and Raising Happy Kids by Michele Borba (Jossey-Bass Publishers, 2006)
All three of my sons attended a wonderful cooperative nursery school led by an incredibly caring teacher, Jeanette Thompson. The very first impression I had of the school was how well-mannered the children were. And, through the years as I put in my "coop" hours, I understood why her students were so polite: Mrs. Thompson never taught manners at a special time, instead she taught students manners all day long through her own example. Every sentence she ever uttered contained the word "please," "thank you," or "excuse me." It was impossible for her students not to be polite. She used to always tell the moms, "Manners are caught, not taught." Was she ever right! I also learned an important secret from my children's teacher: The first step to teaching kids good manners is to make sure you model them yourself.
Make no mistake, Mom: Courtesy does enhance our kids' chances of success! Scores of studies find that well-mannered children are more popular and do better in school. Notice how often they're invited to others' homes? Kids like to be around kids who are nice. Listen to teachers speak about them using such positive accolades. Courteous children have an edge later in life: the business world clearly tells us their first interview choices are those applicants displaying good social graces. They also get more "second" job interviews, and usually even the job. You just can't help but react positively to people who are polite and courteous. By prioritizing polite behaviors with our children, we can enhance their social competence and give them a big boost towards success. Here are five simple secrets to enhance good social graces in your children and give them that edge for a better life.
* Reward Courtesy. Good manners are among the simplest skills to teach children because they are expressed in just a few very specific behaviors. We can instantly point out good or poor manners to our kids: "Wow, nice manners! Did you notice the smile on Grandma's face when you thanked her for dinner?" or "Eating before waiting for the others to sit down wasn't polite," We can modify our children's manners: "Next time, remember to say 'Excuse Me' when you walk in front of someone." And we can always tune them up: "Before you ask for the dish, say "Please."
* Point Out the Value of Manners. Discuss with your children the value of good manners. You might say, "Using good manners helps you gain the respect of others. It's also a great way to meet new friends. Polite people just make the world a kinder place." Once kids understand the impact good manners have on others, they're more likely to incorporate courtesy in their own behavior.
* Teach a Manner a Week. When my children were young I taught them a jingle, "Hearts, like doors, will open with ease, if you learn to use these keys." We'd then print a manner a week on a large paper key and tape it on our kitchen door as a reminder. Every child in the neighborhood could recite not only our jingle, but name the manners that are the "keys to opening hearts." It helped me recognize "catching new manners" doesn't happen overnight: it takes consistency and effort to enhance them in our kids. So, how about teaching a "Manner a Week"? Write the manner on an index card, post it on your refrigerator, and then hold a contest to see how many times family members hear another member use the word. Here's a few to get you started: "Please., Thank you., May I?, Excuse me, I'm sorry., Pardon me., I'm glad to meet you,, You go first., and May I introduce....?"
* Correct Impoliteness Immediately. When your child uses an impolite comment, immediately correct the behavior by using the three "Bs" of discipline: "Be Brief, Be Private so no one but you and your child is aware you're correcting your child, and Be Specific." Here's how two parents used the three "Bs": Juan's mom waited for a private moment to point out his poor manners to him, "Starting your dinner without waiting first for Grandma to sit down, was impolite. Being polite means always respecting older people." Waiting for the right time when only Juan could hear his mom's correction, preserved his dignity but still let him know his behavior was unacceptable. When Kevin used a racist comment, his father immediately used the three Bs letting him know it was unacceptable: "That was a bigoted comment and could hurt someone's feelings. Please, don't ever use that word again."
* Practice Table Manners. A friend of mine who really wanted to make sure her children "caught good manners" started a unique family tradition: Once a month, she asks her children to help her plan a party. The children plan the menu, set their table--with only their "company dishes"--arrange a centerpiece of hand-picked flowers, and then sit in their "Sunday best." The party is just for their family, and it's the time my friend helps her children practice table manners such as "please pass," "thank you," "May I be excused?" (as well keeping your napkin on your lap, chewing with your mouth closed, waiting for others to speak, and learning which fork to use with each course). Yes, it takes a lot of work, but she swears it's worth it, especially when so many people comment on how well-behaved her children are.
A recent survey conducted by US News & World Report found nine out of ten Americans felt the breakdown of common courtesy has become a serious problem in this country. A huge seventy-eight percent of those polled said manners and good social graces have significantly eroded over past ten years, and is a major contributor to the breakdown of our values in this country. What a sad commentary! Using good manners will enhance your child's reputation in all arenas-home, school, and the community. Besides, kids like to be around other kids who are courteous and nice. So start boosting your child's social graces by using these simple secrets in your family.
Michele Borba, Ed.D. is a mom of three, a former teacher, and renowned educational consultant who has presented workshops to one million parents and teachers worldwide. Dr. Borba is the author of 12 Simple Secrets Real Moms Know: Getting Back to Basics and Raising Happy Kids (Jossey-Bass, April 2006).She is a frequent guest on Today, The Early Show, The View, and Fox & Friends. She is also the award-winning author of over 20 books including Parents Do Make a Difference, Don't Give Me That Attitude!, No More Misbehavin': 38 Difficult Behaviors and How to Stop Them, and Nobody Likes Me, Everybody Hates Me. Dr. Borba is an advisory board member for Parents. For more strategies and tips visit www.simplemommysecrets.com.
© 2006 by Michele Borba www.simplemommysecrets.com.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Family-Based Lifestyle Interventions May Help Obese Children Lose Weight
Family-Based Lifestyle Interventions May Help Obese Children Lose Weight
Laurie Barclay, MD From Medscape Today
January 26, 2009 — Family-based lifestyle interventions that modify diet and physical activity and that include behavioral therapy can help obese children lose weight and maintain that loss for at least 6 months, according to the results of a Cochrane systematic review posted online January 21 in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
"Child and adolescent obesity is increasingly prevalent, and can be associated with significant short- and long-term health consequences," write Hiltje Oude Luttikhuis, from Beatrix Children's Hospital and University Medical Center Groningen, in Groningen, the Netherlands, and colleagues. "In order to support clinicians in determining the most appropriate form of treatment, paediatric weight management guidelines exist in many countries to promote best practice, but at present many of these recommendations are based on low grade scientific evidence."
The goal of this systematic review was to evaluate the efficacy of lifestyle, drug, and surgical interventions to treat obesity in childhood. The reviewers searched CENTRAL on The Cochrane Library Issue 2 2008, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, ISI Web of Science, DARE, and NHS EED from 1985 to May 2008 without language restrictions. Bibliographies of retrieved articles were also consulted.
Inclusion criteria for the review were randomized controlled trials of lifestyle interventions (eg, dietary, physical activity, and/or behavioral therapy interventions) and drug and surgical interventions to treat obesity in children younger than 18 years. The interventions could have been conducted with or without the support of family members. A minimum of 6 months of follow-up was required or 3 months for actual drug therapy.
Exclusion criteria were interventions that specifically addressed the treatment of eating disorders or of type 2 diabetes or that included participants with a secondary or syndromic cause of obesity. Using criteria in the Cochrane Handbook, 2 reviewers independently evaluated trial quality and extracted data, and they also contacted study authors for additional information when needed.
The 64 randomized controlled trials identified that met criteria enrolled a total of 5230 participants. In 12 studies, lifestyle interventions were directed at physical activity and sedentary behavior, whereas 6 studies addressed diet and 36 evaluated behaviorally oriented treatment programs. Ten studies looked at drug interventions with metformin, orlistat, or sibutramine. None of the identified studies of surgical intervention met inclusion criteria. Intervention design, outcome measurements, and methodologic quality varied considerably in the included studies.
Meta-analyses showed that lifestyle interventions involving children and lifestyle interventions in adolescents with or without the addition of orlistat or sibutramine were associated with a reduction in overweight at 6 and 12 months of follow-up. Randomized controlled trials of drugs showed a range of adverse effects.
Limitations of this review include those of the reviewed studies, such as insufficient power, publication bias, failure to account for missing data in analyses, analysis not based on intent-to-treat, variations in the definitions of fatness in children, and limited duration of follow-up.
"While there is limited quality data to recommend one treatment program to be favoured over another, this review shows that combined behavioural lifestyle interventions compared to standard care or self-help can produce a significant and clinically meaningful reduction in overweight in children and adolescents," the study authors conclude. "In obese adolescents, consideration should be given to the use of either orlistat or sibutramine, as an adjunct to lifestyle interventions, although this approach needs to be carefully weighed up against the potential for adverse effects. Furthermore, high quality research that considers psychosocial determinants for behaviour change, strategies to improve clinician family interaction, and cost-effective programs for primary and community care is required."
The University Medical Center, Groningen, Netherlands; The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia; the Centre for Food Physical Activity and Obesity Research, University of Teesside, United Kingdom; the Wolfson Research Institute, University of Durham, United Kingdom; and the Australian National Health & Medical Research Council, Australia, supported this study. One of the review authors is a coauthor on 3 of the studies included in the Cochrane Review. Two other authors are involved in the design and conduct of a potentially eligible study for this review.
Cochrane Database Syst Rev. Published online January 21, 2009.
Laurie Barclay, MD From Medscape Today
January 26, 2009 — Family-based lifestyle interventions that modify diet and physical activity and that include behavioral therapy can help obese children lose weight and maintain that loss for at least 6 months, according to the results of a Cochrane systematic review posted online January 21 in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
"Child and adolescent obesity is increasingly prevalent, and can be associated with significant short- and long-term health consequences," write Hiltje Oude Luttikhuis, from Beatrix Children's Hospital and University Medical Center Groningen, in Groningen, the Netherlands, and colleagues. "In order to support clinicians in determining the most appropriate form of treatment, paediatric weight management guidelines exist in many countries to promote best practice, but at present many of these recommendations are based on low grade scientific evidence."
The goal of this systematic review was to evaluate the efficacy of lifestyle, drug, and surgical interventions to treat obesity in childhood. The reviewers searched CENTRAL on The Cochrane Library Issue 2 2008, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, ISI Web of Science, DARE, and NHS EED from 1985 to May 2008 without language restrictions. Bibliographies of retrieved articles were also consulted.
Inclusion criteria for the review were randomized controlled trials of lifestyle interventions (eg, dietary, physical activity, and/or behavioral therapy interventions) and drug and surgical interventions to treat obesity in children younger than 18 years. The interventions could have been conducted with or without the support of family members. A minimum of 6 months of follow-up was required or 3 months for actual drug therapy.
Exclusion criteria were interventions that specifically addressed the treatment of eating disorders or of type 2 diabetes or that included participants with a secondary or syndromic cause of obesity. Using criteria in the Cochrane Handbook, 2 reviewers independently evaluated trial quality and extracted data, and they also contacted study authors for additional information when needed.
The 64 randomized controlled trials identified that met criteria enrolled a total of 5230 participants. In 12 studies, lifestyle interventions were directed at physical activity and sedentary behavior, whereas 6 studies addressed diet and 36 evaluated behaviorally oriented treatment programs. Ten studies looked at drug interventions with metformin, orlistat, or sibutramine. None of the identified studies of surgical intervention met inclusion criteria. Intervention design, outcome measurements, and methodologic quality varied considerably in the included studies.
Meta-analyses showed that lifestyle interventions involving children and lifestyle interventions in adolescents with or without the addition of orlistat or sibutramine were associated with a reduction in overweight at 6 and 12 months of follow-up. Randomized controlled trials of drugs showed a range of adverse effects.
Limitations of this review include those of the reviewed studies, such as insufficient power, publication bias, failure to account for missing data in analyses, analysis not based on intent-to-treat, variations in the definitions of fatness in children, and limited duration of follow-up.
"While there is limited quality data to recommend one treatment program to be favoured over another, this review shows that combined behavioural lifestyle interventions compared to standard care or self-help can produce a significant and clinically meaningful reduction in overweight in children and adolescents," the study authors conclude. "In obese adolescents, consideration should be given to the use of either orlistat or sibutramine, as an adjunct to lifestyle interventions, although this approach needs to be carefully weighed up against the potential for adverse effects. Furthermore, high quality research that considers psychosocial determinants for behaviour change, strategies to improve clinician family interaction, and cost-effective programs for primary and community care is required."
The University Medical Center, Groningen, Netherlands; The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia; the Centre for Food Physical Activity and Obesity Research, University of Teesside, United Kingdom; the Wolfson Research Institute, University of Durham, United Kingdom; and the Australian National Health & Medical Research Council, Australia, supported this study. One of the review authors is a coauthor on 3 of the studies included in the Cochrane Review. Two other authors are involved in the design and conduct of a potentially eligible study for this review.
Cochrane Database Syst Rev. Published online January 21, 2009.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Getting Your Children To Do As They Are Told
Why Do Children Misbehave?
If you attend a workshop or parenting class, you are likely to hear that children misbehave for four common reasons: attention, power, revenge, or inadequacy. Yet, when I ask parents the meanings behind behavior, they often come up with a broader range of reasons children misbehave.
Children may misbehave due to:
1. Illness: When we don’t feel well, we often don’t have the skills, patience, calming power, or thinking ability to do the right thing.
2. Boredom: This is common in school when topics and activities do not stimulate the brain enough to keep it engaged.
3. Frustration and anger: When tasks, people, or experiences lead us to frustration or anger, we are unlikely to do the right thing or make a good choice.
4. A need for attention: Most people enjoy attention, but there is likely a critical mass below which children seek the stimulation and comfort of attention, love, and nurturance.
5. Anxiety: Anxiety is simply fear turned on its side. They both come from the same biological brain system, the limbic system. Many times children misbehave because they are anxious, afraid, or both, even if they don’t have the language skills to communicate their concerns or fears.
6. Low self-esteem: When children do not regard themselves very highly, part of them figures, “Who cares. Whatever. Things are no good for me now so why should I comply?”
7. Misunderstanding: Sometimes children misunderstand what is expected of them. This can be due to communication, listening, or attention challenges.
8. Pacing problems: The internal motor of some children runs too high, making their internal pacing and speed a difficulty to manage themselves.
9. Communication challenges: Due to receptive and or expressive language issues, some children do not have the foundational communication skills to exhibit appropriate behaviors.
10. Sabotage: While parents are generally well-meaning, they can miscommunicate with their children, expect skills beyond the child’s ability, or interfere with learning because of their own anger and skill deficits.
11. Sensory overload: Some children experience overloads to their nervous system that lead to acting up and acting out. Sensory calming skills need to be employed.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
One method for stepping back and collecting data before you form an opinion or intervene is to ask yourself: “What is the meaning of the behavior?” “What underlies this behavior?” “Why is it occurring?” and “What factors are reinforcing this behavior?” In fact, there are three steps to intervening: Data collection, decision-making and intervention.
The method we explore today at the teleconference is "Can He Do It?" differentiating willful non-compliance from a skill deficit. Let's look at a sample behavior:
Identify “Can He Do It?”
Many times children may not be able to exhibit desired behaviors because they do not possess the skills to do as you ask. A simple evaluation tool I use in my office is “Can He Do It?” The tool works like this: write down a specific behavior your child had difficulty with in the past 48 hours. Then ask yourself if your child possessed the skills necessary to complete the desired behavior? If yes, expect it. This is when we use simple behavioral compliance strategies. If no, teach it. It’s that simple. Let’s look at one specific behavioral challenges.
Behavior #1: Sharing Toys
Step #1: What is the expected behavior?
Answer: I expect my five-year-old son to share his toys with his sister.
Step #2: “Can he do it?”
• Did I discretely define one behavior I am seeking my child to exhibit?
• Does my child have the requisite skills to exhibit this behavior?
• Are there any roadblocks that inhibit my child’s ability to exhibit the behavior? For example, did my child sleep well and eat well?
• Have I defined which toys are for sharing and which are personal and will not be played with by others?
• If my child will share another toy, but not the requested toy, did I offer an alternative solution for the children?
Step #3: If yes, expect it. Help your child learn to share by clarifying expectations and establishing a time-frame for sharing.
Step #4: If no, teach it. Help the child to choose an alternate toy, model sharing, and practice sharing.
Bring your own examples to the call, look forward to hearing you there.
http://www.lynnekenney.com/teleconferences.php
If you attend a workshop or parenting class, you are likely to hear that children misbehave for four common reasons: attention, power, revenge, or inadequacy. Yet, when I ask parents the meanings behind behavior, they often come up with a broader range of reasons children misbehave.
Children may misbehave due to:
1. Illness: When we don’t feel well, we often don’t have the skills, patience, calming power, or thinking ability to do the right thing.
2. Boredom: This is common in school when topics and activities do not stimulate the brain enough to keep it engaged.
3. Frustration and anger: When tasks, people, or experiences lead us to frustration or anger, we are unlikely to do the right thing or make a good choice.
4. A need for attention: Most people enjoy attention, but there is likely a critical mass below which children seek the stimulation and comfort of attention, love, and nurturance.
5. Anxiety: Anxiety is simply fear turned on its side. They both come from the same biological brain system, the limbic system. Many times children misbehave because they are anxious, afraid, or both, even if they don’t have the language skills to communicate their concerns or fears.
6. Low self-esteem: When children do not regard themselves very highly, part of them figures, “Who cares. Whatever. Things are no good for me now so why should I comply?”
7. Misunderstanding: Sometimes children misunderstand what is expected of them. This can be due to communication, listening, or attention challenges.
8. Pacing problems: The internal motor of some children runs too high, making their internal pacing and speed a difficulty to manage themselves.
9. Communication challenges: Due to receptive and or expressive language issues, some children do not have the foundational communication skills to exhibit appropriate behaviors.
10. Sabotage: While parents are generally well-meaning, they can miscommunicate with their children, expect skills beyond the child’s ability, or interfere with learning because of their own anger and skill deficits.
11. Sensory overload: Some children experience overloads to their nervous system that lead to acting up and acting out. Sensory calming skills need to be employed.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
One method for stepping back and collecting data before you form an opinion or intervene is to ask yourself: “What is the meaning of the behavior?” “What underlies this behavior?” “Why is it occurring?” and “What factors are reinforcing this behavior?” In fact, there are three steps to intervening: Data collection, decision-making and intervention.
The method we explore today at the teleconference is "Can He Do It?" differentiating willful non-compliance from a skill deficit. Let's look at a sample behavior:
Identify “Can He Do It?”
Many times children may not be able to exhibit desired behaviors because they do not possess the skills to do as you ask. A simple evaluation tool I use in my office is “Can He Do It?” The tool works like this: write down a specific behavior your child had difficulty with in the past 48 hours. Then ask yourself if your child possessed the skills necessary to complete the desired behavior? If yes, expect it. This is when we use simple behavioral compliance strategies. If no, teach it. It’s that simple. Let’s look at one specific behavioral challenges.
Behavior #1: Sharing Toys
Step #1: What is the expected behavior?
Answer: I expect my five-year-old son to share his toys with his sister.
Step #2: “Can he do it?”
• Did I discretely define one behavior I am seeking my child to exhibit?
• Does my child have the requisite skills to exhibit this behavior?
• Are there any roadblocks that inhibit my child’s ability to exhibit the behavior? For example, did my child sleep well and eat well?
• Have I defined which toys are for sharing and which are personal and will not be played with by others?
• If my child will share another toy, but not the requested toy, did I offer an alternative solution for the children?
Step #3: If yes, expect it. Help your child learn to share by clarifying expectations and establishing a time-frame for sharing.
Step #4: If no, teach it. Help the child to choose an alternate toy, model sharing, and practice sharing.
Bring your own examples to the call, look forward to hearing you there.
http://www.lynnekenney.com/teleconferences.php
Monday, January 26, 2009
Peggy Porter Can Change Your Life with Mompreneur Coaching
Peggy Porter is an entrepreneur coach whom I truly respect, read on and see if you are motivated for your better life - today. Best, Dr. K
The month of January is coming to a close and so I encourage you to ask yourself these questions:
Am I TRULY living the life that I want to live, the life I dream off?
Am I creating the business that offers financial prosperity as well as lots of time to spend with family?
Am I taking care of ME? Do I experience joy, vitality and happiness on a daily basis?
Do I love the life I am living while creating the life I want?
Do I want to be entering 2010 in the same place I am today?
If you answered NO to any of these questions, you are not alone. Many Mom Entrepreneurs struggle with bringing their vision for their family and business into reality.
The thing is, IT IS ABSOLUTELY POSSIBLE!
Then WHY do many mom entrepreneurs still struggle from year to year to make the changes they know and want to make?
Because we lose focus and motivation and life gets in the way. Overwhelm sets in as well as fear and self doubt and before we know it, another year rolls by and we are in the same place as we were last year.
How do I know this? Because it all happened to me on more than one occasion.
So are you tired of living this struggle? Are you REALLY READY to make some changes and DO things differently this year? Are you ready to think bigger about what your life can truly be?
I want to help you reach all your goals in 2009. How do I know I can do this? Because I know how effective having a coach can be. All the times I have been involved with a coach or a coaching program has been the time when I have experienced the most personal and professional growth AND I know the results clients have gotten from working with me. Coaching gives you the accountability, focus and structure that is needed to reach goals.
Presently, I have two openings for private platinum clients. This is a very structured, focused year long one on one coaching program. It will get you results if you are ready to make the commitments and step into the possibilities for your life and business.
This is what you will get as a platinum client...
Mom Entrepreneur Platinum Program
This is a 12 month program for the motivated Mom Entrepreneur who is ready to make the commitment to turn her life and business around!
Year long programs are not for everyone but they are for the client who wants to create a compelling vision for their life and business, break through barriers, set big, bold goals, and create clear action steps with weekly accountability.
The Platinum program consists of:
* 90 minute life assessment and goal setting call at the beginning of the program
* 3-1 hour sessions each and every month
* Monthly checklists to keep focused and on track
* Monthly goal setting on eliminating clutter, energy drains and tolerations
* Creating and committing to regular routines of self care
* 90 minute assessment at the 6 month mark
* Mp3 downloadable recording of each call
* Unlimited email coaching for the entire year
Sound like something you are be interested in? Email me or call 506-651-4550 before Feb 1, 2009 and we will set up an appointment to discuss the program and its suitability for you.
There is a quote that always comes to mind when I am feeling stuck...
"If you always do what you always did,
you will always get what you always got."
Are you ready to do things different? Email me at peggy@seekingbalance.ca
To Your Mom Entrepreneur Success,
Peggy Porter
The month of January is coming to a close and so I encourage you to ask yourself these questions:
Am I TRULY living the life that I want to live, the life I dream off?
Am I creating the business that offers financial prosperity as well as lots of time to spend with family?
Am I taking care of ME? Do I experience joy, vitality and happiness on a daily basis?
Do I love the life I am living while creating the life I want?
Do I want to be entering 2010 in the same place I am today?
If you answered NO to any of these questions, you are not alone. Many Mom Entrepreneurs struggle with bringing their vision for their family and business into reality.
The thing is, IT IS ABSOLUTELY POSSIBLE!
Then WHY do many mom entrepreneurs still struggle from year to year to make the changes they know and want to make?
Because we lose focus and motivation and life gets in the way. Overwhelm sets in as well as fear and self doubt and before we know it, another year rolls by and we are in the same place as we were last year.
How do I know this? Because it all happened to me on more than one occasion.
So are you tired of living this struggle? Are you REALLY READY to make some changes and DO things differently this year? Are you ready to think bigger about what your life can truly be?
I want to help you reach all your goals in 2009. How do I know I can do this? Because I know how effective having a coach can be. All the times I have been involved with a coach or a coaching program has been the time when I have experienced the most personal and professional growth AND I know the results clients have gotten from working with me. Coaching gives you the accountability, focus and structure that is needed to reach goals.
Presently, I have two openings for private platinum clients. This is a very structured, focused year long one on one coaching program. It will get you results if you are ready to make the commitments and step into the possibilities for your life and business.
This is what you will get as a platinum client...
Mom Entrepreneur Platinum Program
This is a 12 month program for the motivated Mom Entrepreneur who is ready to make the commitment to turn her life and business around!
Year long programs are not for everyone but they are for the client who wants to create a compelling vision for their life and business, break through barriers, set big, bold goals, and create clear action steps with weekly accountability.
The Platinum program consists of:
* 90 minute life assessment and goal setting call at the beginning of the program
* 3-1 hour sessions each and every month
* Monthly checklists to keep focused and on track
* Monthly goal setting on eliminating clutter, energy drains and tolerations
* Creating and committing to regular routines of self care
* 90 minute assessment at the 6 month mark
* Mp3 downloadable recording of each call
* Unlimited email coaching for the entire year
Sound like something you are be interested in? Email me or call 506-651-4550 before Feb 1, 2009 and we will set up an appointment to discuss the program and its suitability for you.
There is a quote that always comes to mind when I am feeling stuck...
"If you always do what you always did,
you will always get what you always got."
Are you ready to do things different? Email me at peggy@seekingbalance.ca
To Your Mom Entrepreneur Success,
Peggy Porter
Friday, January 23, 2009
Self-Monitoring Behavior
Self-Monitoring Behavior
You may know children who hit or call names, only to blame the other children for their behavioral choices. Sometimes these children blame others in order to justify their own behavior. More often, however, they have not developed the self-awareness, planning, and impulse control to manage their behaviors effectively. This occurs particularly when they are ages four to nine. One step toward helping your children follow the rules is improving their ability to observe their own behaviors and the impact of their behaviors on others.
Research shows that children behave better when their view of their behavior coincides with the view others have of their behavior. As an example, seven-year-old Juliette is more likely to hold the door open for her peers at school when her peers view that behavior as one Juliette is anticipated to exhibit. If asked to rate her "door holding" behavior on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 being poor and 5 being excellent) she is also more likely to rate herself as her peers would see her behavior if she knows they are also evaluating her.
You can use self and sibling ratings as a tool to help your children observe and manage their behaviors better at home. The Family Coach, My Daily Points tool can help your children consciously monitor their behavior.
THE FAMILY COACH POINTS TOOL
Name __________________________________________________________________
Time:______Points:_____
Time:______Points:_____
Time:______Points:_____
Time:______Points:_____
Time:______Points:_____
Name __________________________________________________________________
Time: ______Points:_____
Time: ______Points:_____
Time: ______Points:_____
Time: ______Points:_____
Time: ______Points:_____
Begin with three rules for your family to follow for one week. Each day, focus on one of the rules. Make a sheet of paper with each person's name across the top. On the left hand side write down five times such as 7 am, 8 am, noon, 3 pm, and 5 pm depending on what time your children go to school, camp, soccer, etc. Try to choose five specific times when you are with your children so that the rating period is based on times when you are present to observe behaviors. Help your children monitor their adherence to one family rule each day by taking a moment and asking your children, "On a scale from 1 to 5, how well did you follow the family rule today?" On the scale, 1 is poorly, 2 is partially, 3 is okay, 4 is good, and 5 is great.
Let's put this tool into practice:
"This week, we will be focusing on three family rules: (1) Being an active listener, (2) complimenting one another, and (3) putting our belongings back in their homes (where they belong). Today is Monday, so we are working on 'Being an active listener'." Take the time to help your children see where they are earning points with an eye toward what behaviors they wish to improve.
You may know children who hit or call names, only to blame the other children for their behavioral choices. Sometimes these children blame others in order to justify their own behavior. More often, however, they have not developed the self-awareness, planning, and impulse control to manage their behaviors effectively. This occurs particularly when they are ages four to nine. One step toward helping your children follow the rules is improving their ability to observe their own behaviors and the impact of their behaviors on others.
Research shows that children behave better when their view of their behavior coincides with the view others have of their behavior. As an example, seven-year-old Juliette is more likely to hold the door open for her peers at school when her peers view that behavior as one Juliette is anticipated to exhibit. If asked to rate her "door holding" behavior on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 being poor and 5 being excellent) she is also more likely to rate herself as her peers would see her behavior if she knows they are also evaluating her.
You can use self and sibling ratings as a tool to help your children observe and manage their behaviors better at home. The Family Coach, My Daily Points tool can help your children consciously monitor their behavior.
THE FAMILY COACH POINTS TOOL
Name __________________________________________________________________
Time:______Points:_____
Time:______Points:_____
Time:______Points:_____
Time:______Points:_____
Time:______Points:_____
Name __________________________________________________________________
Time: ______Points:_____
Time: ______Points:_____
Time: ______Points:_____
Time: ______Points:_____
Time: ______Points:_____
Begin with three rules for your family to follow for one week. Each day, focus on one of the rules. Make a sheet of paper with each person's name across the top. On the left hand side write down five times such as 7 am, 8 am, noon, 3 pm, and 5 pm depending on what time your children go to school, camp, soccer, etc. Try to choose five specific times when you are with your children so that the rating period is based on times when you are present to observe behaviors. Help your children monitor their adherence to one family rule each day by taking a moment and asking your children, "On a scale from 1 to 5, how well did you follow the family rule today?" On the scale, 1 is poorly, 2 is partially, 3 is okay, 4 is good, and 5 is great.
Let's put this tool into practice:
"This week, we will be focusing on three family rules: (1) Being an active listener, (2) complimenting one another, and (3) putting our belongings back in their homes (where they belong). Today is Monday, so we are working on 'Being an active listener'." Take the time to help your children see where they are earning points with an eye toward what behaviors they wish to improve.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Light a SPARK FREE Webinar
SPARK presents:
"Simple ways to increase MVPA"
This webinar is the first in a series of free monthly "Wednesday Webinars" hosted by SPARK. The purpose is to provide educators and administrators with resources to implement and/or sustain SPARK programs in their schools. Whether you are a seasoned SPARK Star or just want to learn more about SPARK, this webinar series is for you!
There will be a new topic each month as well as time for Q&A on anything you'd like to discuss.
SPARK's February Webinar-
"Simple Ways to increase MVPA"
Description: A major objective of SPARK PE is to increase the amount of time students spend engaged in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA). This webinar will present proven ways to increase MVPA through discussion of the following topics:
*Why students need more MVPA
*Modifying lessons to increase MVPA
*Decreasing transition time between activities
*Identifying inclusionary strategies
When: Wednesday, Feb 4th at 3:00 pm PST
Who: K-12 teachers and administrators, PE specialists, after school coordinators, early childhood educators, and coordinated school health staff.
Duration: 30 minutes
Cost: Free!
Registration: To register for this webinar, click on the following link: SPARK Webinar- Feb 4th. Then
click on the "REGISTER" button to sign up.
Thank you from the SPARK team!
"Simple ways to increase MVPA"
This webinar is the first in a series of free monthly "Wednesday Webinars" hosted by SPARK. The purpose is to provide educators and administrators with resources to implement and/or sustain SPARK programs in their schools. Whether you are a seasoned SPARK Star or just want to learn more about SPARK, this webinar series is for you!
There will be a new topic each month as well as time for Q&A on anything you'd like to discuss.
SPARK's February Webinar-
"Simple Ways to increase MVPA"
Description: A major objective of SPARK PE is to increase the amount of time students spend engaged in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA). This webinar will present proven ways to increase MVPA through discussion of the following topics:
*Why students need more MVPA
*Modifying lessons to increase MVPA
*Decreasing transition time between activities
*Identifying inclusionary strategies
When: Wednesday, Feb 4th at 3:00 pm PST
Who: K-12 teachers and administrators, PE specialists, after school coordinators, early childhood educators, and coordinated school health staff.
Duration: 30 minutes
Cost: Free!
Registration: To register for this webinar, click on the following link: SPARK Webinar- Feb 4th. Then
click on the "REGISTER" button to sign up.
Thank you from the SPARK team!
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Conscious Movement
Introducing Conscious Movement classes for adults.
Conscious Movement gets you moving. You learn to let go of the constant gripping of your muscles, that creates tension in your body and mind. You will become aware of where you get "stuck" in your body and in your thought patterns. Through movement, you can trust in your body and mind, becoming more present and focused in your life.
Besides learning about yourself, through movement, you also get a workout. As you integrate movement in your muscles, bones and joints, you learn to create more relaxation and ease by moving through your whole body. In practicing deep internal stretches in your body, you can unwind your challenge areas. You will build strength, stamina & endurance as you work your muscles through "whole body" movements. You will learn to let go of the physical and mental "stuff" that holds you back from really making things work in your life.
www.consciousworkouts.com
Contact Michell at:
info@consciousworkouts.com or 602-617-3141 to register
Conscious Movement gets you moving. You learn to let go of the constant gripping of your muscles, that creates tension in your body and mind. You will become aware of where you get "stuck" in your body and in your thought patterns. Through movement, you can trust in your body and mind, becoming more present and focused in your life.
Besides learning about yourself, through movement, you also get a workout. As you integrate movement in your muscles, bones and joints, you learn to create more relaxation and ease by moving through your whole body. In practicing deep internal stretches in your body, you can unwind your challenge areas. You will build strength, stamina & endurance as you work your muscles through "whole body" movements. You will learn to let go of the physical and mental "stuff" that holds you back from really making things work in your life.
www.consciousworkouts.com
Contact Michell at:
info@consciousworkouts.com or 602-617-3141 to register
Monday, January 12, 2009
Twitter Moms Blog
It's official, TwitterMoms now has featured contributors! Look for fun, thought-provoking posts everyday. Read the latest in parenting, home & food, style, health & fitness, travel, money & business and a completely upgraded TwitterMom of the Week (could it be you?).
Announcing the TwitterMoms Featured Contributors
We reviewed hundreds of applications for featured contributors, and may I just say, you ladies are all very impressive! But I did have to select a limited number -- this go around! Our featured contributors are volunteers, and as we get further along we will add more featured contributors from our membership. Stay tuned! But, without further adieu, it is with great pleasure to introduce you to our new featured contributors:
* For all you moms out there, Molly Balient, Terreece Clarke and Lynne Kenney will be posting stories and advice on parenting.
* Laura Zavelson, Mary and Beth Ann Bentley will be covering crafting, decorating and all things home & food.
* To keep up on the latest fashion and beauty trends, check out Kristen Andrews style blog - she's got all the inside scoop.
* Holly Rigsby and Lisa Druxman will be sharing their expertise for losing weight and keeping fit in 2009 in the health & fitness section.
* And, if you are taking a vacation this year or just want to live vicariously through a mom traveling Europe with her husband, child and dog, be sure to read the latest from Alice Griffin and Jamie Pearson.
* Beth Feldman, Lyn Mettler and Lauren Barack will be helping us keep our businesses and finances in order with their advice and expertise in money & business.
* Finally, Lea Curtes Swenson will be introducing us to the TwitterMom of the Week every Monday!
Join us! www.twittermoms.com/profile/LynneKenney
Announcing the TwitterMoms Featured Contributors
We reviewed hundreds of applications for featured contributors, and may I just say, you ladies are all very impressive! But I did have to select a limited number -- this go around! Our featured contributors are volunteers, and as we get further along we will add more featured contributors from our membership. Stay tuned! But, without further adieu, it is with great pleasure to introduce you to our new featured contributors:
* For all you moms out there, Molly Balient, Terreece Clarke and Lynne Kenney will be posting stories and advice on parenting.
* Laura Zavelson, Mary and Beth Ann Bentley will be covering crafting, decorating and all things home & food.
* To keep up on the latest fashion and beauty trends, check out Kristen Andrews style blog - she's got all the inside scoop.
* Holly Rigsby and Lisa Druxman will be sharing their expertise for losing weight and keeping fit in 2009 in the health & fitness section.
* And, if you are taking a vacation this year or just want to live vicariously through a mom traveling Europe with her husband, child and dog, be sure to read the latest from Alice Griffin and Jamie Pearson.
* Beth Feldman, Lyn Mettler and Lauren Barack will be helping us keep our businesses and finances in order with their advice and expertise in money & business.
* Finally, Lea Curtes Swenson will be introducing us to the TwitterMom of the Week every Monday!
Join us! www.twittermoms.com/profile/LynneKenney
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Think Thin with Dr. Fred From MotherHoodLater.com
I think we can all remember back when it was "so easy" to lose weight - if not so easy then at least easier than it is now. Time is definitely not our friend when it comes to weight loss, especially for women. The reason for this is mainly the hormonal changes that start to occur at this stage of life. That's right, peri-menopausal changes. These changes start anywhere from 35 to 40 and will last until you start to experience the more common menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, memory loss, and vaginal dryness - to name a few.
I have designed a program with stubborn weight loss issues in mind. These issues are interesting because many women complain of the inability to lose weight after having children (but that has never stopped Angelina Jolie) or some women find that for the first time in their lives, without changing the way they eat, they are finding that the pounds just keep piling on. It's all about hormones! The diet program I recommend is geared toward regulating those hormones and allowing you to lose weight and, most importantly, to stay healthy while setting a good example for your children.
In my first diet book for adults, Thin For Good, there are specific chapters designed for both men and women at different times in their lives. My more recent book, The Hamptons Diet, applies more to everyone and includes all of the insight I've gained since the first book was written. Each book has over 200 recipes. The Hamptons Diet Cookbook is also available if you truly get hooked on this way of eating.
In case you don't want to buy the books, allow me to share the top ten tips for losing weight (at any age!)
Cut out Sugar!
Seems simple enough, right? Yet sugar can be found in most foods. In fact, there are 300 foods that the government says do not have to include the sugar content in the ingredients label although the food does contain sugar (such as iodized salt - most iodized salts add sugar to keep the grains from sticking together). Did you know that ketchup contains more sugar than ice cream? How can you find the hidden sugars? Look at the ingredients list for words that end in "-ose" or "-ol" - these are sugars. Fruit juice should be avoided - studies show that those who consume more fruit juice are more prone to obesity and diabetes. Soda is also loaded with sugar. You may be hearing a lot about high fructose corn syrup these day too - what you may not know is that this product is even more deadly than regular sugar. Be wary of labels that say "no sugar added" - check the ingredients list. You will be surprised at what you find!
Note: Stevia (a non-caloric herb) is a good and healthy sugar substitute that can easily be found in a health food store.
Eradicate Simple Carbohydrates from your Diet:
That means bye-bye to all the "white" foods such as bread, pasta, pretzels, etc. They are metabolized in the body just like sugar. I should also mention that honey, succanat, and agave are still just sugars albeit in a "healthier" form; yet for the purposes of losing weight, they are metabolized in the body identically to sugar so get rid of them.
Cut out "Diet" Products:
Most of these will contain an artificial sweetener of some kind. Not only are these toxic chemicals which will kill you at some point, but they set up blood sugar reactions in the body and will have you craving sweets just as if you were eating sugar.
Choose Lean Proteins:
Don't be afraid of meat or eggs. They fire up the metabolism and it is okay to eat eggs every morning. 80% of the cholesterol in your blood stream is produced by the liver and not by what you eat - a very common medical myth. I would advise eating organic animal products whenever possible.
Choose Healthier Snacks:
Cheese, nuts, nut butters, seeds are all significantly heart healthy snacks. The fatty acids found in these products not only satisfy hunger, and boost your metabolism but will also aid in decreasing cholesterol and raising the healthy HDL cholesterol.
Vegetables are you Friends:
So many of us forget that vegetables are a wonderful source of carbohydrates and fiber. They are filling and most of them are filled with lots of water hence giving them the ability to satiate you.
Drink Plenty of Water:
You should be drinking about ½ your body weight in ounces of water each day. I know that sounds like a lot, but once you start doing it you will start to feel the thirst. This helps to flush out toxins and keep your bowels moving regularly.
Eat at Home More Often:
Not only will this save you money but you will know exactly what is in your food; no guess work and no added growth hormones or antibiotic residue from non-organic or non-natural food.
Exercise:
This not only decreases stress levels which decrease cortisol levels (the hormone that increases fatty deposition around the mid section) but also helps in the weight loss process. Even if you only exercise for a few minutes a day - it's better than nothing.
Get a Buddy:
If all else fails, get support from those around you. Encourage your husband, a girlfriend or anyone to join in with you. It is easier as a team. And if your family doesn't go along willingly, if you do the shopping and the cooking, then they will be forced to eat what you are eating - don't buy foods just for them. If they want something different, they can go to the store themselves.
Good Luck and Happy New Year!
Think Thin in 2009
Tips for Healthy Weight Loss
Dr. Fred Pescatore, MD, MPH, CCN
from www.motherhoodlater.com
Dr. Fred Pescatore, MD, MPH, CCN is a regular contributor to the MLTS Newsletter. He is the author of The New York Times best-selling book, The Hampton's Diet, and The Hampton's Diet Cookbook, which combine the Mediterranean lifestyle with the palates of Americans emphasizing a whole foods approach to health and weight management. He lectures around the world and has been seen on such televisions shows as, NBC's Today Show and ABC's The View. He is a correspondent for Women's World, First for Women, In Touch, US Weekly and Life & Style magazines.
I have designed a program with stubborn weight loss issues in mind. These issues are interesting because many women complain of the inability to lose weight after having children (but that has never stopped Angelina Jolie) or some women find that for the first time in their lives, without changing the way they eat, they are finding that the pounds just keep piling on. It's all about hormones! The diet program I recommend is geared toward regulating those hormones and allowing you to lose weight and, most importantly, to stay healthy while setting a good example for your children.
In my first diet book for adults, Thin For Good, there are specific chapters designed for both men and women at different times in their lives. My more recent book, The Hamptons Diet, applies more to everyone and includes all of the insight I've gained since the first book was written. Each book has over 200 recipes. The Hamptons Diet Cookbook is also available if you truly get hooked on this way of eating.
In case you don't want to buy the books, allow me to share the top ten tips for losing weight (at any age!)
Cut out Sugar!
Seems simple enough, right? Yet sugar can be found in most foods. In fact, there are 300 foods that the government says do not have to include the sugar content in the ingredients label although the food does contain sugar (such as iodized salt - most iodized salts add sugar to keep the grains from sticking together). Did you know that ketchup contains more sugar than ice cream? How can you find the hidden sugars? Look at the ingredients list for words that end in "-ose" or "-ol" - these are sugars. Fruit juice should be avoided - studies show that those who consume more fruit juice are more prone to obesity and diabetes. Soda is also loaded with sugar. You may be hearing a lot about high fructose corn syrup these day too - what you may not know is that this product is even more deadly than regular sugar. Be wary of labels that say "no sugar added" - check the ingredients list. You will be surprised at what you find!
Note: Stevia (a non-caloric herb) is a good and healthy sugar substitute that can easily be found in a health food store.
Eradicate Simple Carbohydrates from your Diet:
That means bye-bye to all the "white" foods such as bread, pasta, pretzels, etc. They are metabolized in the body just like sugar. I should also mention that honey, succanat, and agave are still just sugars albeit in a "healthier" form; yet for the purposes of losing weight, they are metabolized in the body identically to sugar so get rid of them.
Cut out "Diet" Products:
Most of these will contain an artificial sweetener of some kind. Not only are these toxic chemicals which will kill you at some point, but they set up blood sugar reactions in the body and will have you craving sweets just as if you were eating sugar.
Choose Lean Proteins:
Don't be afraid of meat or eggs. They fire up the metabolism and it is okay to eat eggs every morning. 80% of the cholesterol in your blood stream is produced by the liver and not by what you eat - a very common medical myth. I would advise eating organic animal products whenever possible.
Choose Healthier Snacks:
Cheese, nuts, nut butters, seeds are all significantly heart healthy snacks. The fatty acids found in these products not only satisfy hunger, and boost your metabolism but will also aid in decreasing cholesterol and raising the healthy HDL cholesterol.
Vegetables are you Friends:
So many of us forget that vegetables are a wonderful source of carbohydrates and fiber. They are filling and most of them are filled with lots of water hence giving them the ability to satiate you.
Drink Plenty of Water:
You should be drinking about ½ your body weight in ounces of water each day. I know that sounds like a lot, but once you start doing it you will start to feel the thirst. This helps to flush out toxins and keep your bowels moving regularly.
Eat at Home More Often:
Not only will this save you money but you will know exactly what is in your food; no guess work and no added growth hormones or antibiotic residue from non-organic or non-natural food.
Exercise:
This not only decreases stress levels which decrease cortisol levels (the hormone that increases fatty deposition around the mid section) but also helps in the weight loss process. Even if you only exercise for a few minutes a day - it's better than nothing.
Get a Buddy:
If all else fails, get support from those around you. Encourage your husband, a girlfriend or anyone to join in with you. It is easier as a team. And if your family doesn't go along willingly, if you do the shopping and the cooking, then they will be forced to eat what you are eating - don't buy foods just for them. If they want something different, they can go to the store themselves.
Good Luck and Happy New Year!
Think Thin in 2009
Tips for Healthy Weight Loss
Dr. Fred Pescatore, MD, MPH, CCN
from www.motherhoodlater.com
Dr. Fred Pescatore, MD, MPH, CCN is a regular contributor to the MLTS Newsletter. He is the author of The New York Times best-selling book, The Hampton's Diet, and The Hampton's Diet Cookbook, which combine the Mediterranean lifestyle with the palates of Americans emphasizing a whole foods approach to health and weight management. He lectures around the world and has been seen on such televisions shows as, NBC's Today Show and ABC's The View. He is a correspondent for Women's World, First for Women, In Touch, US Weekly and Life & Style magazines.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Successful Parents
SUCCESS MAGAZINE is featuring an amazing DVD series for parents this month. It's on sale NOW! Visit http://www.successmagazine.com/Family-Relationships-DVD-Collection-/PARAMS/product/251
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Financial Tips with Michelle Evard
Listen in to Michelle Evard http://www.blogtalkradio.com/The-Family-Coach Thursday January 8, 2009 1pm ET as we discuss money saving tips for 2009.
1. If you are trying stay on a budget, use cash instead of credit cards. When you do this, go to the ATM on a certain day and take out a certain amt. For example, I take out $200/wk and once that is gone, I know I cannot go out to dinner or pick up the dry cleaning.
2. If trying to save on food, read the flyers and buy more of the big items when they are on sale. Big items include meat, milk, bread – things you use all the time. Utilize coupons and buy produce that is in season.
3. If your child does activities and they would like to join all of them, give them a choice of 2 or 3 they can join and see if the local community center, YMCA or school already has a program. That way you do not have to pay full price for them. Stay away from traveling teams until your child narrows down what they like – so you aren’t spending needless amounts of money on gas and travel.
4. When you child is old enough to understand – usually around 7 or 8 – put them on a budget. For example, they are allowed $50 a month, if they ruin the carpet or you have to fix the neighbors house because they were careless, that $50 go towards their mistakes. You aren’t punishing them with money, you are showing them that those things cost money and that it doesn’t grow on trees.
5. For older children in high school, give them monetary rewards for finishing school, getting good grades, etc. It will have limits though, they have to use the money to invest and to grow, they can’t just spend it. This way they understand using their money to grow their net worth instead of buying material items.
1. If you are trying stay on a budget, use cash instead of credit cards. When you do this, go to the ATM on a certain day and take out a certain amt. For example, I take out $200/wk and once that is gone, I know I cannot go out to dinner or pick up the dry cleaning.
2. If trying to save on food, read the flyers and buy more of the big items when they are on sale. Big items include meat, milk, bread – things you use all the time. Utilize coupons and buy produce that is in season.
3. If your child does activities and they would like to join all of them, give them a choice of 2 or 3 they can join and see if the local community center, YMCA or school already has a program. That way you do not have to pay full price for them. Stay away from traveling teams until your child narrows down what they like – so you aren’t spending needless amounts of money on gas and travel.
4. When you child is old enough to understand – usually around 7 or 8 – put them on a budget. For example, they are allowed $50 a month, if they ruin the carpet or you have to fix the neighbors house because they were careless, that $50 go towards their mistakes. You aren’t punishing them with money, you are showing them that those things cost money and that it doesn’t grow on trees.
5. For older children in high school, give them monetary rewards for finishing school, getting good grades, etc. It will have limits though, they have to use the money to invest and to grow, they can’t just spend it. This way they understand using their money to grow their net worth instead of buying material items.
Queen of Fats Susan Allport
What exactly are omega-3s?
Omega-3s are one of two families of essential fats, which are fats we cannot make ourselves and must consume in our diets. The omega-3s originate in green leaves (of all places), and they compete with a second family of essential fats, omega-6s, fats that are much more prevalent in the seeds of plants, for positions in every cell in our body.
We’ve been taught to think of all these fats, the polyunsaturates, as one big happy family. But in fact they are two competing families with very different effects on our bodies. Omega-3s speed up the activity of cells; omega-6s slow it down. Omega-3s create little to no inflammation; omega-6s create a lot of inflammation. A balance of these two families, in our diets and our tissues, produces just the right amount of activity and inflammation and leads to optimal health.
How have omega-3s been removed from the Western Diet
Let me back up a moment and talk about where omega-3s are found and then it will be easy to see how they’ve been removed. Omega-3s originate in the green leaves of plants, not fish, as most people think. They accumulate in the tissues of animals that eat green leaves, including fish, but they originate in the chlorplasts of green leaves. A second family fats, omega-6s, are much more prevalent in the seeds of plants. Omega-6s are also essential for health but they compete with omega-3s for positions in our cell membranes so that anyone who is consuming lots of vegetable or seed oils, as most Americans are, is not going to have a lot of omega-3s in their tissues.
As our reliance on seed oils has increased since the early 1900s so has our incidence of heart disease and other ailments
Omega-3s originate in the green leaves of plants, as I said, and because green leaves are the most abundant thing on the planet, omega-3s are, in fact the most abundant fat on the planet. The only place they’re not abundant is in the tissues of Americans and other Westerners because we’re eating so many of the competing omega-6 fats.
http://www.susanallport.com/
Omega-3s are one of two families of essential fats, which are fats we cannot make ourselves and must consume in our diets. The omega-3s originate in green leaves (of all places), and they compete with a second family of essential fats, omega-6s, fats that are much more prevalent in the seeds of plants, for positions in every cell in our body.
We’ve been taught to think of all these fats, the polyunsaturates, as one big happy family. But in fact they are two competing families with very different effects on our bodies. Omega-3s speed up the activity of cells; omega-6s slow it down. Omega-3s create little to no inflammation; omega-6s create a lot of inflammation. A balance of these two families, in our diets and our tissues, produces just the right amount of activity and inflammation and leads to optimal health.
How have omega-3s been removed from the Western Diet
Let me back up a moment and talk about where omega-3s are found and then it will be easy to see how they’ve been removed. Omega-3s originate in the green leaves of plants, not fish, as most people think. They accumulate in the tissues of animals that eat green leaves, including fish, but they originate in the chlorplasts of green leaves. A second family fats, omega-6s, are much more prevalent in the seeds of plants. Omega-6s are also essential for health but they compete with omega-3s for positions in our cell membranes so that anyone who is consuming lots of vegetable or seed oils, as most Americans are, is not going to have a lot of omega-3s in their tissues.
As our reliance on seed oils has increased since the early 1900s so has our incidence of heart disease and other ailments
Omega-3s originate in the green leaves of plants, as I said, and because green leaves are the most abundant thing on the planet, omega-3s are, in fact the most abundant fat on the planet. The only place they’re not abundant is in the tissues of Americans and other Westerners because we’re eating so many of the competing omega-6 fats.
http://www.susanallport.com/
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Save Your Brain
The three-pound organ in your head is very special. So if you want to feel happy, alert and focused, start being sensitive to its needs.
1. Ditch the high fructose corn syrup and sugars, transfats, processed and packaged foods (which contain up to 3,500 food additives and chemicals).
2.Choose organic foods and grass-fed animal products to avoid hormones, antibiotics and the gallon of neurotoxic pesticides each of us consume every year.
3. Filter your water.
4. Wear a helmet when doing sports that put your head at risk.
5. Eat foods high in Omega 3 fatty acids.
6. Stop eating food out of boxes and cans.
7. Eat fresh food for each meal.
Read: Mark Hyman, M.D., author of "The Ultramind Solution."
1. Ditch the high fructose corn syrup and sugars, transfats, processed and packaged foods (which contain up to 3,500 food additives and chemicals).
2.Choose organic foods and grass-fed animal products to avoid hormones, antibiotics and the gallon of neurotoxic pesticides each of us consume every year.
3. Filter your water.
4. Wear a helmet when doing sports that put your head at risk.
5. Eat foods high in Omega 3 fatty acids.
6. Stop eating food out of boxes and cans.
7. Eat fresh food for each meal.
Read: Mark Hyman, M.D., author of "The Ultramind Solution."
Seven Goal Setting Steps
Step #1: Consider all that you have accomplished since in 2008. Write down what has worked for you. What you wish to continue to achieve as a family and what goals you’d like to set for the next quarter.
Step #2: Write down 1-3 goals per domain in any of the domains that you value. Make your goals SMART - Specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely. Consider goals for health, family time, behavior, school, friends, spirituality, sports, nutrition, hobbies, sports and personal time.
Step #3: Choose one goal at a time to work toward. Establish short-time frames to maximize success. If you are setting a health or exercise goal begin with small steps. As an example, “I will walk Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 7am-7:30 for two weeks.”
Step #4: Keep track of your daily progress toward goals by writing in a journal, jotting a note on your calendar or keeping track online.
Step #5: Reward yourself for small successes. Take yourself out to a movie, have tea with a friend or set aside an hour on a Sunday to read a book as a reward for your progress.
Step #6: Revise your goal if it was not attainable.
Step #7: Choose a new domain or goal within the domain you are currently working on. By taking small steps, monitoring your progress and rewarding yourself, you will remain mindful of your goal and move in the direction of success!
Step #2: Write down 1-3 goals per domain in any of the domains that you value. Make your goals SMART - Specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely. Consider goals for health, family time, behavior, school, friends, spirituality, sports, nutrition, hobbies, sports and personal time.
Step #3: Choose one goal at a time to work toward. Establish short-time frames to maximize success. If you are setting a health or exercise goal begin with small steps. As an example, “I will walk Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 7am-7:30 for two weeks.”
Step #4: Keep track of your daily progress toward goals by writing in a journal, jotting a note on your calendar or keeping track online.
Step #5: Reward yourself for small successes. Take yourself out to a movie, have tea with a friend or set aside an hour on a Sunday to read a book as a reward for your progress.
Step #6: Revise your goal if it was not attainable.
Step #7: Choose a new domain or goal within the domain you are currently working on. By taking small steps, monitoring your progress and rewarding yourself, you will remain mindful of your goal and move in the direction of success!
Parenting Essentials: 10 Steps to More Confident Parenting
Start 2009 off by Creating Your Extraordinary Family at home with the DVD - Parenting Essentials: 10 Steps to More Confident Parenting by Dr. Lynne Kenney
Dr. Lynne Kenney, a self-professed "nine year-old at heart," recognizes that we live in a stressful world. She also believes that kids are resilient and forgiving, and that in the face of challenges, we can raise strong, independent children while living passionately and helping our children do the same.
Simply copy the link into your browser.
http://www.yoursuccessstore.com/shopping/shopexd.asp?id=2303
Dr. Lynne Kenney, a self-professed "nine year-old at heart," recognizes that we live in a stressful world. She also believes that kids are resilient and forgiving, and that in the face of challenges, we can raise strong, independent children while living passionately and helping our children do the same.
Simply copy the link into your browser.
http://www.yoursuccessstore.com/shopping/shopexd.asp?id=2303
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Listen to Dr. K Live on TV and Radio in January
New Year's Eve has always been a time for looking back to the past, and more importantly, forward to the coming year. It's a time to reflect on the changes we want (or need) to make and resolve to follow through on those changes. Did your New Year resolutions make our top ten list?
1. Spend More Time with Family & Friends
2. Fit in Fitness
3. Tame the Bulge
4. Quit Smoking
5. Enjoy Life More
6. Quit Drinking
7. Get Out of Debt
8. Learn Something New
9. Help Others
10. Get Organized
Listen to Dr. K live Friday on Channel 12 and Saturday Live on the Jan D'Atri show NEWSTALK 550 KFYI on Clear Channel, Phoenix Arizona
www.KFYI.com
1. Spend More Time with Family & Friends
2. Fit in Fitness
3. Tame the Bulge
4. Quit Smoking
5. Enjoy Life More
6. Quit Drinking
7. Get Out of Debt
8. Learn Something New
9. Help Others
10. Get Organized
Listen to Dr. K live Friday on Channel 12 and Saturday Live on the Jan D'Atri show NEWSTALK 550 KFYI on Clear Channel, Phoenix Arizona
www.KFYI.com
Motherhood is an Emotional Rollercoaster Ride
Motherhood is an emotional rollercoaster ride with all the highs and lows, twists and turns, and nauseating moments you get from the one at your local amusement park. However, unlike your typical two-minute ride, this one lasts a lifetime and begins moments after you pee on a stick.
Hop in and I’ll share a seat with you on my rollercoaster ride so far!
* When I found out I was pregnant, I was elated. I couldn’t wait to be a mommy, again and again.
* During the first trimester, I panicked. What came in the easy way, had to come out the hard way.
* During the second trimester, I was calm. I knew if millions of women could deliver babies, so could I.
* During the third trimester, I was desperate. I felt like I couldn’t wait another minute to get my body back again.
* The moment my children were born, I felt relief. They were healthy.
* Three days post-partum, I was depressed. I couldn’t bear the fact that one day my babies would leave home. Yes, only three days later. While that thought still brings tears to my eyes, the baby blues made me sob at the unbearable notion.
* Three weeks post-partum, I was overwhelmed. How could I possibly take care of a baby, then a toddler and baby, then two kids and a baby all by myself during the day?
* Three months post-partum I felt capable. I had mastered breastfeeding, the car seat and how to get a shower in during the day.
It’s been over ten years since I started this rollercoaster ride and during that time I’ve also felt:
* Immense pride for all that my children are . . . smart, beautiful, thoughtful, fun, generous, polite, creative . . .
* Guilty for raising my voice, being impatient and taking my stress out on them.
* Crippling worry about their emotional and physical well-being.
* Grateful to be blessed with three incredible daughters.
* Stressed at the amount of tasks I have to do while being the primary caregiver.
* Lucky to be their mommy.
* Angry when they are disrespectful to me.
* Content knowing that my decision to not work outside the home was the right one for me.
* Regret on days I’ve spent more time nagging than playing.
* Happy just being with my daughters.
I know there will be more highs and lows on this emotional rollercoaster, but there’s no better ride than motherhood!
Written by: Shannon Hutton http://www.sparkplugging.com/believer-in-balance/
Hop in and I’ll share a seat with you on my rollercoaster ride so far!
* When I found out I was pregnant, I was elated. I couldn’t wait to be a mommy, again and again.
* During the first trimester, I panicked. What came in the easy way, had to come out the hard way.
* During the second trimester, I was calm. I knew if millions of women could deliver babies, so could I.
* During the third trimester, I was desperate. I felt like I couldn’t wait another minute to get my body back again.
* The moment my children were born, I felt relief. They were healthy.
* Three days post-partum, I was depressed. I couldn’t bear the fact that one day my babies would leave home. Yes, only three days later. While that thought still brings tears to my eyes, the baby blues made me sob at the unbearable notion.
* Three weeks post-partum, I was overwhelmed. How could I possibly take care of a baby, then a toddler and baby, then two kids and a baby all by myself during the day?
* Three months post-partum I felt capable. I had mastered breastfeeding, the car seat and how to get a shower in during the day.
It’s been over ten years since I started this rollercoaster ride and during that time I’ve also felt:
* Immense pride for all that my children are . . . smart, beautiful, thoughtful, fun, generous, polite, creative . . .
* Guilty for raising my voice, being impatient and taking my stress out on them.
* Crippling worry about their emotional and physical well-being.
* Grateful to be blessed with three incredible daughters.
* Stressed at the amount of tasks I have to do while being the primary caregiver.
* Lucky to be their mommy.
* Angry when they are disrespectful to me.
* Content knowing that my decision to not work outside the home was the right one for me.
* Regret on days I’ve spent more time nagging than playing.
* Happy just being with my daughters.
I know there will be more highs and lows on this emotional rollercoaster, but there’s no better ride than motherhood!
Written by: Shannon Hutton http://www.sparkplugging.com/believer-in-balance/
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
