Difficult times with kids

There was a Mothers Day contest on a radio station and they were asking listeners to send in a piece of advice from their mothers.

Here is one of the entries that I think is worthwhile to remember:

"When your child is the least loveable, he needs the most love."

On occasion we, as parents, find ourselves exasperated with the behaviour of our sons or daughters. During a temper tantrum in a store or being mean to a sibling. Whatever the situation, however "rotten" the behaviour, we must somehow overcome our frustration or anger and show our unconditional love for the child. Often when we're dealing with difficult children, they and we lose the sight of the fact that we love them.

This can be very difficult. It is not to say you approve or condone the behaviour but you must get beyond it and find the underlying causes.

Most of all show your disapproval for the behaviour BUT also your love for the child.