Explain feelings Describe how other people feel when they are sad or when they are hurt in clear and concise language. If your child breaks another child’s toy, for example, you can remind him how he felt when one of his toys broke, and say. “That

. In these instances, talking may have to come later.Try not to take sidesTry not to jump to conclusions; it is generally fairer, and more effective in the long term, to let each child have their say.Talk about feelingsChildren tend to act out their feelings less

and keep looking up. I will be here at the bottom watching out for you.’4. Look for your child’s signals – if he really is feeling overwhelmed, he may need someone to step in. But as far as possible, let him manage the situation himself

of all others, and is left feeling lonely if the best friend is away from school, moves away, or finds another “best friend”! Talk about how great it is to be part of a wide circle of friends, using yourself, siblings or friends as a positive example

. Successful people love what they do. It gives them energy, work feels like play and time flies by. Some successful people knew from an early age what they wanted to do, most of us have no idea what will fill us with energy until we try it. That’s why it is so

' expectations of them. Inone famous Sixties psychology study, six researchers were told that theirrats had superior intellects; another six researchers were told their ratswere particularly dim. Within days, the researchers with the supposedlyintelligent rats

or toes, as it offers a feeling of comfort and reassurance much like sucking their thumb.Boys’ testosterone levels typically soar at around four years old. This is when the Action Man antics and macho behaviour kicks in. A boy who was previously not fussed

mouths when teething, so provide teething toys to chew on to relieve the pain.Biting is often a way of expressing frustration. Help give your child the words to express his feelings instead of using his teeth, such as, “You’re angry because you want

Scary monsters, ghosts and ghouls Reassure your child that he is safe, and help him to feel secure and less anxious. A toddler may benefit from choosing a toy that can “protect” him; an older child may be reassured if he can take the time to explain

.“Children are very perceptive and often don’t want to hurt people’s feelings,” says psychologist Dr Amanda Gummer. “They are also afraid of getting told off if they tell the truth, so a small lie is often easier.”Lies fall into three categories: those that are kind