"...a wonderfully compiled handbook that every DC parent should have."
                                   —Washington Parent, December 2005 [read full review]

2) Respond promptly and lovingly to your child's physical and emotional needs, and banish put-downs from your parenting vocabulary.

3) Make an extra effort to set a good example at home and in public. Use words like "I'm sorry," "please," and "thank you."

4) When your child is angry, argumentative, or in a bad mood, give him a hug, cuddle, pat, secret sign, or other gesture of affection he favors, and talk with him about his feelings

5) Use non-violent forms of discipline. Parents should institute both rewards and restrictions many years before adolescence to help prevent trouble during the teenage years. Allowing children of any age to constantly break important rules without being disciplined only encourages more rule violations.

6) Make plans to spend time alone with your child, doing something she enjoys.

7) Mark family game nights on your calendar, so the entire family can be together. Put a different family member's name under each date, and have that person choose which game will be played that evening.

8) Help your child foster positive relationships with friends, siblings, and members of the community.

9)One of your most important gifts as a parent is to help your child develop self-esteem. Your child needs your steady support and encouragement to discover his strengths. He needs you to believe in him as he learns to believe in himself. Loving him, spending time with him, listening to him, and praising his accomplishments are all part of this process.