http://www.minti.com/members/nell18-3/advice/ Most Recent Advice on Minti by nell18-3 Copyright 2008 Minti en-uk nell18-3 And you thought that those Homework years were behind you !!!!Sorry but NOAs long as you have children at schoolYou have to play your part in getting the Homework accomplishedOur children, don't think like us.........They really believe the teachers will listen when they say "The Dog Ate it !!!!"I've noticed that my boys seem to get a lot more homework ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9508/Homework-Essentials-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9508/Homework-Essentials-/ Mon, 29 Sep 2008 12:39:38 -0700 nell18-3 My son believes he is STUPIDFor a Mother it is heartbreaking to see your child to just accept this belief he hasAll because he has grown up being told he was stupidHe isn't stupid at allHe is absolutely beautifulBut he has got ADHD !!!If I had a penny for everytime my son has been called Stupid, I would be a ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9471/Hes-NOT-Stupid-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9471/Hes-NOT-Stupid-/ Tue, 23 Sep 2008 13:24:02 -0700 nell18-3 I am one of the "old school" MumsI like structured bed timesI adore my childrenBut I needed some time time to myself in the eveningsBut, it was not easy !!!!!!From as far back as I remember I would put my babies to bed at half 6, if they awoke in the evening, I would go to them and spend time ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9367/Bedtime-Routines/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9367/Bedtime-Routines/ Sun, 07 Sep 2008 05:34:20 -0700 nell18-3 Have you ever noticed how much easier it is to tell other people how to be a good parentBefore you have children of your ownYes as soon as you become a parentEverything changesAll those things you swore you would never doYou suddenly find yourself doingJust to find that 5 minutes peace and quiet to yourself !!!!!I used to find it ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9292/Why-is-it-that-the-best-parents-in-the-world-have-no-children-of-their-own-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9292/Why-is-it-that-the-best-parents-in-the-world-have-no-children-of-their-own-/ Tue, 19 Aug 2008 06:13:55 -0700 nell18-3 This week I was on my way to workI knew it was going to be a couple of trips down to the wardSo asked the boys if they would mind helping methe response..................."Yes of course, what will you pay us??????"I was not happy !!!!!!!!I can be very stubborn if the situation calls for it, this time I felt justified because ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9219/When-Practical-Teaching-Goes-Wrong-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9219/When-Practical-Teaching-Goes-Wrong-/ Fri, 08 Aug 2008 15:50:12 -0700 nell18-3 Possibly two of the most powerful yet wasteful emotions we hold ontoAnd I should knowBoth emotions are strong and energisingBoth emotions don't help anyone !!!!Yet still we feel we need themStill we hold onto them and refuse to let goFor the last few years I have been reliant on these emotionsThey are what has gotten me out of bed in ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9121/Angry-and-Resentful/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9121/Angry-and-Resentful/ Thu, 10 Jul 2008 23:54:18 -0700 nell18-3 Its just possible that as parents we become too staidPossible too boringIts no wonder our children prefer to hang around their friends housesIf the alternative is being embarrassed in their own homeWhat child wants to invite their friends around When the first thing you will say to their guest is"Now these are the ground rules!!!"Not for one minute am I ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9090/Its-OK-to-be-a-Fun-Mum/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9090/Its-OK-to-be-a-Fun-Mum/ Sat, 05 Jul 2008 14:41:03 -0700 nell18-3  Been thinking about the word "Valued" a lot this weekEspecially after seeing the pleasure on Daniels face when the compliment was thrown his waySo what does it mean to be Valued??How can we promote our children to feel Valued??Do you feel valued yourself??If not, why not??Definitions of Value picked from my thesaurus.As an adjective:cherished, esteemed, irreplaceable, priceless, treasuredAs a noun:admire, ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9086/Valuation-Time/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9086/Valuation-Time/ Fri, 04 Jul 2008 11:48:30 -0700 nell18-3 When your child is hurtingYou work hard at sorting out the problem and trying to put things rightWhat if the hurt is to their mindWhat if your child is being emotionally or psychologically damagedWhat can you do when your child is screaming at you, holding their headPleading for you to make it stopBegging you to make the other parent leave ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9054/Emotional-Abuse-Not-just-an-Adult-problem-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9054/Emotional-Abuse-Not-just-an-Adult-problem-/ Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:07:27 -0700 nell18-3 When I ended my marriageA few people told me, I would be fine in 2 years !!!Can you imagine what flashed through my mind at that pointTWO YEARS !!!!!!!They may have said 22 years for how it felt when I heard that !!!The thing is its what you do with those two years that really matters.Most importantly:Take time to HealEven ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9023/Those-Two-Years-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/9023/Those-Two-Years-/ Tue, 17 Jun 2008 10:50:19 -0700 nell18-3 Abuse is not always obvious to othersIts not always about someone with a black eye who has walked into a door !!!Abuse is also manipulative and subtleThe Abuser can be the nicest person to anyone elseBut a total monster to YOU!!!And don't I know it !!!!!Recently at a session of my Domestic Abuse workshop we discussed the "early warning signs" ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8992/Why-didnt-they-listen-to-me-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8992/Why-didnt-they-listen-to-me-/ Thu, 12 Jun 2008 00:02:46 -0700 nell18-3 Love is a GiftIn most cases, we choose who to give that gift toSadly there are times when we can't help but give Love to the wrong person Or the love we give is turned against us and trampled onBut one thing I do know.......the love I have for my children is EndlessI give it to them freely and even ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8979/Endless-Love/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8979/Endless-Love/ Tue, 10 Jun 2008 09:48:17 -0700 nell18-3 I appear to have caught something infectiousIt starts with my mouthWhereas my lips used to turn downI’ve noticed now they are often curved in an upward directionHow do I know its infectious????Its because if I wake up in the morning and my mouth is curved upwardsIt appears I pass it on to everyone and soon we are all doing the ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8916/A-highly-recommended-bug-to-catch-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8916/A-highly-recommended-bug-to-catch-/ Wed, 28 May 2008 11:06:08 -0700 nell18-3 Parenting has to be one of the most demanding of all jobsSure it also has the greatest rewards and fringe benefitsBut there is no doubting it can leave you exhaustedAnd to a certain point, completely paranoid !!!!!!!Well done to all the single parents who have no one to share those magic moments withAnd no one to share their pains with ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8818/Well-Done-all-you-Single-Parents-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8818/Well-Done-all-you-Single-Parents-/ Tue, 06 May 2008 12:37:46 -0700 nell18-3 One of the big factors in a family break up Housing !!!!!!We all need somewhere to live, I wanted so much to keep the old family home for me and the boysI felt that it would be good for them to have some kind of stability in their lifeAnd decided it had to be the home.We no longer live in ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8630/Home-is-more-than-just-a-House/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8630/Home-is-more-than-just-a-House/ Wed, 16 Apr 2008 08:42:11 -0700 nell18-3 The break up of a relationship hurtsNo matter what the circumstancesWe have to be careful that whilst we try to sort through everythingThe children are kept in the looptheir feelings and their fears are always taken into accountHow is it best we can do this ????By always being honest with themThere is no doubt that seeing your parents go through ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8601/Keep-it-Honest-to-your-Children-during-a-Breakup/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8601/Keep-it-Honest-to-your-Children-during-a-Breakup/ Sun, 13 Apr 2008 07:48:17 -0700 nell18-3 Of all the things I am asked since leaving my marriageThe question that I am asked the most is"Why Did You Stay ?"Unless you have been in the very same situationYou cannot understand why anyone would stay in an abusive relationshipBut what is it that makes us so loyal to people that have no respect, love or care for us ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8588/SoWhy-DO-We-Stay-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8588/SoWhy-DO-We-Stay-/ Thu, 03 Jul 2008 06:20:19 -0700 nell18-3 My son was scaredHe was confused, threatened and insecureI needed to fix itSo we came up with a planWe created his own Safe HavenOn his Island he pulls all the strings Whenever my son, gets stressed and uptight, he hurts himself. Yes it breaks my heart whilst the days where he used to wrap things around his neck and say everyone ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8566/His-Place-of-Safety/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8566/His-Place-of-Safety/ Tue, 08 Apr 2008 14:29:21 -0700 nell18-3 When you have childrenYou understand Passion of a completely different nature and intensityThis passion is all to do with the need to protectJust like a Tigress with their cubsthats the same Passion that most of us parents identify withThe knowledge that you are prepared to ensure nothing hurts your child without you getting in the wayWe all know the saying“I ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8519/Parenting-Emotions-Passion/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8519/Parenting-Emotions-Passion/ Sun, 30 Mar 2008 10:20:14 -0700 nell18-3 I was not prepared for the first time I looked at my first bornI honestly thought my heart would burst At that moment I knew I would do whatever if took to protect himthe same thing happened for the following three childrenI guess I am one of the lucky onesAs I realise that for some the love isn’t instantBut when ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8509/Parenting-Emotions-Love/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8509/Parenting-Emotions-Love/ Thu, 27 Mar 2008 14:42:48 -0700 nell18-3 We all have those moments as parentsYou grit your teeth and count to 10But still you feel the anger bubbling away at you insideYou take a deep breath and try to control that feelingSometimes it works and we take control againBut what about those times when we can't control itI defy any parent to say they have never "snapped"We've all ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8477/Parenting-Emotions-Anger/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8477/Parenting-Emotions-Anger/ Fri, 21 Mar 2008 04:48:43 -0700 nell18-3 Who would have thought having a child would make you lonelyWhat is that all about ????After all you know have company 24/7So why do I feel so Lonely??is it just me who feels this way?When does it get better?So why is it when we have our baby we get these feelings of Loneliness.I love my children dearly, I wouldn't be ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8453/Parenting-Emotions-Loneliness/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8453/Parenting-Emotions-Loneliness/ Sun, 16 Mar 2008 09:04:39 -0700 nell18-3 We have so many dreams for our childSo many achievements for them to reach and grab forWe all want our child to be the next big namethe top Sportsperson/Model/Actor/Anchorman/TV PresenterWe quite simply want the very best for our childAnd somehow we confuse that with money or fameIn this modern day culture of Reality TV shows, it seems that so many ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8449/Parenting-Emotions-Aspiration/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8449/Parenting-Emotions-Aspiration/ Sat, 15 Mar 2008 13:23:27 -0700 nell18-3 Breaking NewsNo two babies are the sameAll babies grow at a different rateAll children develop at their own speedEven twins reach various stages of development in their own timeBabies are all UNIQUE!!!!Bragging about our babies Milestones is our proud moment as parents, we love to record the date, the times of all their first moments. We are anxious to tell ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8446/Parenting-Emotions-Competitiveness/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8446/Parenting-Emotions-Competitiveness/ Fri, 14 Mar 2008 12:37:08 -0700 nell18-3 Do you ever find yourself watching the children playAnd get a thrill as they turn around every so often Just to check you are still thereWatching over them, Looking out for themCaring for themMaking them feel safeRecently, I was watching the children in the school playground where I work, They were having a great time playing "Tag" You know the ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8445/Parenting-Emotions-Empowering/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8445/Parenting-Emotions-Empowering/ Thu, 13 Mar 2008 12:55:25 -0700 nell18-3 Did you know that each of us parents have a secret weaponIt comes in very handyIn all manner of parenting situations and dilemmasIts that feeling that something is not quite rightCommonly called our InstinctOf course using our instinct isn't always straight forwardThere are times when our instinct hides behind other emotionsSelf Doubt, Guilt and Wariness to name a fewBut we ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8418/Parenting-Emotions-Instinctiveness/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8418/Parenting-Emotions-Instinctiveness/ Sat, 08 Mar 2008 05:34:27 -0800 nell18-3 Don't you just love it when you are having one of those daysEverything has gone wrongYou really can't take much moreYou're about to put your head in your hands and sobWhen from the corner of your eye you see your child watchingAs they have been noticed they walk over and say I Love YouCan you think of anything more comforting ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8405/Parenting-Emotions-Comforting/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8405/Parenting-Emotions-Comforting/ Thu, 06 Mar 2008 11:55:06 -0800 nell18-3 Our babies at birth are defencelessthey rely on us for everything So. What is that emotion swelling inside my headIs it Love ????????No, its total Fear of doing the wrong thing !!!!!OK Maybe I exaggerated, there is  for most of us an overwhelming sense of love when we look at our child too. But I will never foget the first time ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8404/Parenting-Emotions-Fear/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8404/Parenting-Emotions-Fear/ Thu, 06 Mar 2008 11:02:19 -0800 nell18-3 Whether your baby is planned or notBy the time you are holding your baby in your arms that first timeIts likely you will already have made plenty of tough decisionsHaving your baby is just the beginning of many more choicesSometimes the choices are oursBut sometimes we should leave the decisions to themWatching your child make a decision and stand ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8390/Parenting-Emotions-Decisions/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8390/Parenting-Emotions-Decisions/ Tue, 04 Mar 2008 09:13:59 -0800 nell18-3 We have our babies and life seems comleteOr does it ???How many times over the next few months/years/decades evenare you likely to use the words......Thats it, I'm exhausted !!!!! Broken Sleep and NewbornsThere is nothing quite like being up all night and finding yourself watching the clock not hoping you can fall asleep but instead wishing the sun would rise and ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8388/Parenting-Emotions-Fatigue/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8388/Parenting-Emotions-Fatigue/ Tue, 04 Mar 2008 08:46:17 -0800 nell18-3 One of the most overlooked emotions we go through as parentsIs simply having funWe worry so about getting everything rightIts okay to sometimes get it wrong tooJust as long as you have fun along the wayWhen we recently went to Iceland, my boys loved it that I had a go at the Sledging alongside them, thats because contrary to how ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8376/Parenting-Emotions-Fun/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8376/Parenting-Emotions-Fun/ Sun, 02 Mar 2008 09:39:50 -0800 nell18-3 Parenting along with all its pleasuresAlso bring with it, its own fair share of battlesSome of the time during these battles there will be no winner !Some of the times we can’t even remember what the battle was about !Most of the time the battle could have been prevented !When we battle with our babies we call them “Unsettled”We finally ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8375/Parenting-Emotions-Battles/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8375/Parenting-Emotions-Battles/ Sun, 02 Mar 2008 09:15:26 -0800 nell18-3 Some of us have our own story to tell when it comes to GriefGrief are usually emotions beyond our controlGrief is also living with a situation we cannot changeAgain there are many ways in which we live through griefSadly too many of us parents have to find ways of coping with grief There are so many levels of GriefImmediately when we ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8374/Parenting-Emotions-Grief/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8374/Parenting-Emotions-Grief/ Sun, 02 Mar 2008 08:50:28 -0800 nell18-3 This is the small thingsThe things that hurt but cause no lasting damageIt may even feel like a big deal at the timeBut these Hurts are the Hurts we can get overEven if it takes a whileWhen I think of the times my children have hurt me over the years, three little words instantly spring to mindI HATE YOU !!!!I ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8373/Parenting-Emotions-Hurt/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8373/Parenting-Emotions-Hurt/ Sun, 02 Mar 2008 08:22:21 -0800 nell18-3 Those are the moments when you feel your heart is going to burst with prideIt may be because your baby has given you their first smileIt may be later in life when they graduate with honoursLots of things make us happy as a parentBut its those moments of pure JOY that make it so worthwhile.We take so much pride in ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8372/Parenting-Emotions-Joy/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8372/Parenting-Emotions-Joy/ Sun, 02 Mar 2008 07:53:15 -0800 nell18-3  When travelling in Europe we are advised to have an EHIC cardThis is the card formerly known as the E111I have always assumed I didnt need thisAfter all I take out  my own private travel insurance when I travelI was wrong !!!!!My brother and sister in law, who live in Iceland,  have just had friends over from England, they like ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8304/European-Travel-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8304/European-Travel-/ Wed, 13 Feb 2008 08:44:17 -0800 nell18-3 Travelling with children is not easyAs adults we understand the need to be in a small space for a long timeChildren just dont get that !!!!!They want mobility freedomThey like to wander, stretch and most of all they get boredTravelling basics with children should always includeActivities and safe treats !!!I always remember the first time I flew to Iceland, my ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8303/Taking-Flight-with-Children/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8303/Taking-Flight-with-Children/ Wed, 13 Feb 2008 08:29:20 -0800 nell18-3 How can even the most mild mannered babyGrow into a toddler capable of the most awful TANTRUMSIs it really just an inevitable phase they all go through ?Do we do anything that causes it ?Can we do anything to stop it ?Or do we just have to grin and bear it ???Of my four children the one that had the ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8288/Oh-that-Temper--/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8288/Oh-that-Temper--/ Sun, 10 Feb 2008 07:50:37 -0800 nell18-3 In my opinionThe most annoying adverts you see on TVAre those beautiful womanStrolling along the beachSmiling Happily in their light flimsy dressBecause they have found the secret to happinessYes they have discovered the towels with wingsOr the tampons that are presented like little sweets !!!!!!!!What I want to know is where is the average woman in this scenario, you know ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8273/Periodic-Fun-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8273/Periodic-Fun-/ Tue, 05 Feb 2008 01:36:09 -0800 nell18-3 When you have your new babyYou bring the new family member homeYou feel invigorated, fresh and eager to show off............No?????????Perhaps you feel tired, hormonal and washed out. I know which category I fell into LOLMake a stand and include into your routine some "Me Time"I remember with one of my new babies, I had washing everywhere, dishes in the sink ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8259/Some-Me-Time/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8259/Some-Me-Time/ Thu, 31 Jan 2008 12:14:38 -0800 nell18-3 My two boys are playing football together in the gardenI am watching and waitingWhy am I waiting ????Because there is a good 95% chance that their fun will end in a fight !!How do I know this?Years of watching the love/hate relationship of siblingsI wasted so many years not improving my relationship with my brother, it is my one big ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8254/Sibling-Rivalry/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8254/Sibling-Rivalry/ Tue, 29 Jan 2008 09:15:24 -0800 nell18-3 This is one of my mantras that I say to my boysI use it whenever I feel they are being dis respectfulIf I talk to them with respectI expect respect backIf I act in respectI expect them to act in respect tooWhy can't we all remember and use this phraseits so disheartening to come home from work and switch on ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8240/Treat-Me-as-I-Treat-You/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8240/Treat-Me-as-I-Treat-You/ Thu, 24 Jan 2008 10:10:46 -0800 nell18-3  I've been watching my son latelyHe has come such a long wayNot so long ago he was anxious, jumpy, frustrated and confusedNow he is confident, relaxed, calm and clearWhat has changed for him to be able to get to that point ?He dealt with his issues then put the lid on the box.Me, however, I couldn't put the lid on ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8212/When-to-Put-the-Lid-on-the-Box/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8212/When-to-Put-the-Lid-on-the-Box/ Fri, 18 Jan 2008 08:20:35 -0800 nell18-3  I have been stressed lately !!!!!!!! I spent too much time worrying about the little thingsAll those things that don't really matterEvery little situation had the capacity of getting me downGiving me a sleepless nightOr worse.....doubt my ability as a motherYears ago, my only ambition was to be a MumI wanted the whole pretty pictureThe little house, with small garden, ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8211/Dont-Stress-It-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8211/Dont-Stress-It-/ Fri, 18 Jan 2008 08:02:26 -0800 nell18-3 Nobody likes lazy peopleEveryone gets irritated by the people that seem to do little but achieve everythingHow much more popular is the Diligent personDiligence is so much more than Hard WorkingIts about being able to put the effort into all you doSo you can be pleased with the resultit is possible to work hard but not seem to get anywhere, ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8157/Lessons-in-Life-Diligence/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8157/Lessons-in-Life-Diligence/ Thu, 10 Jan 2008 12:11:46 -0800 nell18-3 We all have a FREE WILLLearning how to use that Free Will wiselyIs an Art !Teaching your child about Free WillIs the Free Will of us as parentsBut, if not taught correctly..........you will sufferEven the youngest of babies can show their independence from a very early age, as a parent of a daughter who was born independent, it does make ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8156/Lessons-in-Life-Free-Will/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8156/Lessons-in-Life-Free-Will/ Thu, 10 Jan 2008 11:54:11 -0800 nell18-3 Why do we as we grow into adulthoodPut conditions on our loveA child is the perfect example of showing Unconditional LoveEven an abused child, still loves their parent deeplyThey just don't like the actions inflicted on thembut it doesn't kill the loveI believe that every child deserves to live a life of Unconditional Love by their parentsWhy should a child ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8099/Lessons-in-Life-Unconditional-Love/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8099/Lessons-in-Life-Unconditional-Love/ Fri, 28 Dec 2007 11:05:29 -0800 nell18-3 We can all learn a lesson about Trust from our childrenI lost count of the amount of times I would pass some stepsOnly to hear my child call my name....then launch themselves at me expecting me to catch themThey trusted me completely (Gave me a few heart failures too,!!!)But they knew instinctively I would not watch them get hurt without ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8098/Lessons-in-Life-Trusting/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8098/Lessons-in-Life-Trusting/ Fri, 28 Dec 2007 10:48:59 -0800 nell18-3 Ambition can so often be seen as a bad trait in peopleThe world at large sees Ambitious people as  selfish and mean spiritedAmbition conjures up the image of someone prepared to walk over others to get their goalsBut ambition is a great gift to encourage our child in positive thinkingAmbition is something we can work forIts the dream that keeps ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8095/Lessons-in-Life-Ambition/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8095/Lessons-in-Life-Ambition/ Thu, 27 Dec 2007 15:04:26 -0800 nell18-3 Generosity is not about giving away moneyWe can be generous with everything in our day to day livesIts not only the wealthy who can afford to be generousGenerosity is a selfless giving actBut it can be done with time, possessions and kindnessAnd those don't cost a thingHow easy is it to teach a child about Generosity ??Are children born Selfish ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8094/Lessons-in-Life-Generosity/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8094/Lessons-in-Life-Generosity/ Thu, 27 Dec 2007 14:52:03 -0800 nell18-3 In life we can sometimes set ourselves very high standardsNot only do we expect ourselves to keep these standardsWe actually believe that everyone else should too!!!!!!Unless we have learnt the gift of ToleranceTolerance is about accepting everyone is differentAnd what may be right for us............may not be achievable for someone else !As a parent we all know about Tolerance !!!!!!So ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8090/Lessons-in-Life-Tolerance/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8090/Lessons-in-Life-Tolerance/ Sun, 23 Dec 2007 14:00:17 -0800 nell18-3 Appreciation is all tied to being valuedIf you appreciate something or someoneThen you will also value the item or personAppreciation is in the family of Good MannersIts not only the big thingsIts about appreciating the small things tooEveryone wants to be appreciated How can we teach our children about appreciation ?Imagine if you were to do a big party, you ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8089/Lessons-in-Life-Appreciation/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8089/Lessons-in-Life-Appreciation/ Sun, 23 Dec 2007 13:45:36 -0800 nell18-3 What image does the word Resourceful bring to your mind ?I always remember being told of woman who was driving home alone,her car broke down, the fan belt had snapped!She quickly whipped off her tights and created a new fan belt that lasted long enough to get her to a safe placeTo me that was being really resourcefulIn my world ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8038/Lessons-in-Life-Resourcefulness/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8038/Lessons-in-Life-Resourcefulness/ Sun, 09 Dec 2007 12:29:54 -0800 nell18-3 Why do so many people think it is their right to be respected?Surely everyone knows that respect has to be earnedHow do we go about earning the respect of others?Just how hard is it to teach respect?Just how hard is it to give respect?Just how hard is it to earn respect?There are some people in this world who may well ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8036/Lessons-in-Life-Respect/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/8036/Lessons-in-Life-Respect/ Sun, 09 Dec 2007 04:29:41 -0800 nell18-3 Another lesson we all learn from a very early ageIs AccountabilityOne of the sayings I use  when correcting my childrenYou did the crime, Now pay the Time !!!!No! I don't lock them in some dungeonBut if they do wrong they know that in some wayThere will be a fitting punishmentBeing accountable is something essential for everyone to learnWe have to ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7998/Lessons-in-Life-Accountability/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7998/Lessons-in-Life-Accountability/ Mon, 03 Dec 2007 12:57:56 -0800 nell18-3 Sometimes we hear of some sad newsWe also feel sad tooSometimes we hear of sad newsAnd we are driven by a need to help Not only do we feel sorry for the people involvedWe want to make it better tooThat is CompassionI have so often watched TV shows or Appeals and feel desperately sad for those concerned, it can be ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7997/Lessons-in-Life-Compassion/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7997/Lessons-in-Life-Compassion/ Mon, 03 Dec 2007 10:10:39 -0800 nell18-3 We look at a young child as they take their first stepsThey pull themselves up.......Try to steady themselves, maybe take a step or twoUntil they fall downDo they give up????No, its the determination in them to achieve their goalThat drives them to try again and again and againUntil they are up and awayDetermination is such a great quality to teach ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7985/Lessons-in-Life-Determination/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7985/Lessons-in-Life-Determination/ Sun, 02 Dec 2007 06:26:32 -0800 nell18-3 What is true contentment?It is just about being happyNo it is much bigger than thatTrue Contentment is accepting ourselves just as we areEmbracing not only the positive sides to ourselfBut understanding our quirks, blemishes and faults tooIt is so easy to look at someone in a glossy magazine, who is perfectly made up and air brushed, and feel that they ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7984/Lessons-in-Life-Contentment/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7984/Lessons-in-Life-Contentment/ Sun, 02 Dec 2007 06:25:12 -0800 nell18-3 How would you define integrity???To me that would mean that the person, business, words, actions are not going to let you downThere are no false promisesThey stand by their wordThere is 100% reliabilityIt is a sincere and honest dependency that is pure and completeOnce lost it is very hard to get it backYou cannot have integrity without respect. Equally you ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7983/Lessons-in-Life-Integrity/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7983/Lessons-in-Life-Integrity/ Sun, 02 Dec 2007 06:23:01 -0800 nell18-3 Self Belief to me is the difference betweenbeing in control of your own thoughts and feelingsor relying on the good or bad things said to you by othersSelf Belief is not about ArroganceIt is about confidence in yourselfTo have self belief is to be empoweredIf I could have a penny for everytime one of my children has been upset by ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7982/Lessons-in-Life-Self-Belief/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7982/Lessons-in-Life-Self-Belief/ Sun, 02 Dec 2007 06:21:10 -0800 nell18-3 It never ceases to amaze my colleagues at school and I How many children come to school and have no idea how to eat properly!!!!!!!!You also cannot imagine the extent of mess they leave behindAnd don't even get me started on Manners!!!!!Some children have never heard of the words Please and ThankyouAm I really old fashioned ????Or should some standards ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7957/Children-and-Food-Etiquette/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7957/Children-and-Food-Etiquette/ Mon, 26 Nov 2007 11:46:30 -0800 nell18-3 According to my World Book Dictionary the definition is:rape (1), noun, verb, raped, raping.noun   1. the act of seizing and carrying off by force.     2. the crime of having sexual intercourse especially with a woman or girl forcibly or without consent.     3. any violent seizure or hostile action against a weaker opponent.     Ex. Hitherto our attitude to ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7843/What-is-Rape-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7843/What-is-Rape-/ Mon, 12 Nov 2007 12:28:36 -0800 nell18-3 Those of us who are living with difficult custodial issuesAll have the same issues racing around in our headsIs my child happy with the other parentIs my child safe with the other parentAre they treated nicely with the other parentAre they loved with the parentWe want all these questions answered !!!!!But lets NOT push our child for those answers !!!!!!I ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7816/Smooth-Visitation-After-effects/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7816/Smooth-Visitation-After-effects/ Fri, 09 Nov 2007 14:30:44 -0800 nell18-3 Its so simple isn't it to look at someone else's life/family/children/decisions/problems......the list is never ending !And that thought comes into our minds"Thats not what I would do!!!!"I have, since my separation, and the smear campaign that Ex has successfully masterminded,learnt an extemely valuable lesson in lifeDON'T JUDGE OTHER PEOPLE !OK I admit it, I am Human after all, I do ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7776/Judge-Not-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7776/Judge-Not-/ Fri, 02 Nov 2007 09:06:46 -0700 nell18-3 Am I the only one who can spend time tidying my boys roomsOnly to find that a few minutes laterDisaster !!! I must have missed the earthquake that only hit their room !!!I walk in and don't know where to start.....Funny thing is when you ask them to tidy upThey look at me as if to sayYou expect me to ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7694/Tidy-in-Stages/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7694/Tidy-in-Stages/ Sun, 21 Oct 2007 02:52:49 -0700 nell18-3 We have all been there..... when you have given your children warning after warningYet still they push you to the limitsEspecially bedtimeBut each new day should be a new startSo never sleep on an arguement !My boys have a habit of playing up at bedtime !I think they figure the extra few minutes must be worth itBut they do know I ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7693/Dont-Sleep-On-It/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7693/Dont-Sleep-On-It/ Sun, 21 Oct 2007 02:29:42 -0700 nell18-3 I have been asked a lot latelyWhy do you let your boys still see their dad when he keeps letting them downMy answer is always the sameBecause its not my choice to makeOf course I can set guidelines and I would definitely stop them if they were in immediate dangerBut right now its not my choice to makeHere is Why........I ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7669/Its-their-choice-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7669/Its-their-choice-/ Tue, 16 Oct 2007 09:05:30 -0700 nell18-3 I had already lived a good few years and then some when I tried self harmingFor years I used to read about it and think it was ridiculousWhy couldn't these people who harm themselfSee how wrong it was???Then one day I knew why they did it......How did I find out?????It was the day that I felt something sticky on my ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7536/Self-Harming-WHY/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7536/Self-Harming-WHY/ Tue, 25 Sep 2007 12:04:44 -0700 nell18-3 Hmmm one of my ideas of a perfect world.....Every male on the planet understood periodsKnew how to cope with periodsUnderstood our moods during periods........When I was married  Ex used to sulk for days or even worse when I was on my period  i wouldn't wish that on anyone!!My vision is actually achievable if we as parentsEducate our sons too about ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7461/Boys-need-to-know-about-periods-too/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7461/Boys-need-to-know-about-periods-too/ Sat, 15 Sep 2007 02:28:07 -0700 nell18-3 Its hard bringing up children isn't it?trying to do the right thing....Wondering what they need to know and what they don't need to know.....Do you find it easier when discussing their bodiesto use pet names for their "private areas"This is a plea to you all to make sure they also know the correct terminology too!!!!An incident at school today.A new ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7447/Private-Pet-Names/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7447/Private-Pet-Names/ Fri, 14 Sep 2007 08:24:49 -0700 nell18-3 Working as one of the MDSA (Dinner Ladies) in a local schoolI find it amazing at the wealth of choice that children are having in their lunchesMaybe as a parent you would be amazed at what the children think of their lunchImagine a room full of hungry children who have spent the morning stuck in a classroomThey are hungry, they ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7420/School-Packed-Lunches/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7420/School-Packed-Lunches/ Tue, 11 Sep 2007 10:03:21 -0700 nell18-3 When it got to the end of my marriage break upI was in a very bad wayI realised something was badly wrongBut I was being influenced that it was me not anyone else that was the problemMy parents tell me that the moment of reality for them was me saying these words...I know you are Listening but you aren't Hearing ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7354/Listening-but-not-Hearing/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7354/Listening-but-not-Hearing/ Tue, 04 Sep 2007 08:44:31 -0700 nell18-3 I, for one, believe they cani can prove it with my daughterOne day I hope my sons will be my friends tooBut right now they are my young sons.The only way this is possible......Keep your friendship between parameters.I have often heard that family relationships break down when you treat your children as friends not children!This may be true in lots ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7316/Can-your-children-also-be-your-Friends/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7316/Can-your-children-also-be-your-Friends/ Sat, 01 Sep 2007 07:39:21 -0700 nell18-3 My daughter has grown up from a screaming babyinto a beautiful strong womanShe has faced great adversity, great challengesLife changing eventsShe could have grown into a selfish and wilful womanStamping her authority on everything as an adult just as she tried to as a childBut from within she has found the strength to again and againpick herself up and start ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7276/After-the-Storms-came-My-Sunshine--Part-Three/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7276/After-the-Storms-came-My-Sunshine--Part-Three/ Wed, 29 Aug 2007 14:20:20 -0700 nell18-3 So I survived the toddler yearsNext came the school yearsEasy PeasyN O T !But it wasn't all badAnd it wasn't all her fault!!!!As my daughter started school, so she developed interests in other things too.She loved all sportsShe loved Music and Boy did she love to DanceMy pretty little girl, always dressed in pretty dresses and ribbons was the first ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7275/After-the-Storms-came-My-Sunshine--Part-Two/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7275/After-the-Storms-came-My-Sunshine--Part-Two/ Wed, 29 Aug 2007 13:28:41 -0700 nell18-3 Guess What!!!!   I love My daughter!She has always been a source of pleasure and delight to meShe was a pleasure to bring upShe was the sweetest daughter you can ever hope for..........N O T !!!!!!!!My daughter was a battle from the second she was born!!!!She screamed, kicked, argued, slapped, stamped her way through childhoodBut now after all the feelings of ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7274/After-the-Storms-came-My-Sunshine--Part-One/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7274/After-the-Storms-came-My-Sunshine--Part-One/ Wed, 29 Aug 2007 12:41:34 -0700 nell18-3 Its strange making my own decisions!I can't remember doing anything in my marriage without getting "permission"People used to see me living with a "generous" manTotally free to do my own thing?????Funny what you can hide behind closed doorsMy biggest decisions back there were....Do I want Tea or Coffee???No I am making life changing choicesLife is scary..........but life is also MINE!!!!Why ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7264/Taking-Back-Control-of-my-own-Life/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7264/Taking-Back-Control-of-my-own-Life/ Tue, 28 Aug 2007 01:14:42 -0700 nell18-3 We all know that if we were to come across a medical incidentThe golden rule is to always check the quieter casualty firstThe reason being that if the Casualty is screaming, chances are that although they are in a lot of pain....It is probably not life threateningWhereas the quieter casualtymay be hurting too deeply or too seriously to be able ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7188/When-the-Quiet-Child-Hurts-/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7188/When-the-Quiet-Child-Hurts-/ Fri, 17 Aug 2007 15:14:04 -0700 nell18-3 Since the boys and I had to leave the old family homeWe have moved into a Council, rented homeIt is probably half the size of our old homeYet feels bigger, safer, happier and so much calmerDo you know Why we think this is???There is no bad History for us, no sad memories and no bad vibesAnd the address is "our ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7177/Our-Secret-Home/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7177/Our-Secret-Home/ Thu, 16 Aug 2007 16:16:46 -0700 nell18-3 I've just recently done a very hard thingI asked my parents to make sure they have a willAlso to write details of their kind of funeral they wantI have done the sameNo, I am not being MorbidI am planning ahead, i would rather discuss with them when they are strong and healthyAfter all what is the option?Ill and on their ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7152/Planning-Ahead/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7152/Planning-Ahead/ Tue, 14 Aug 2007 13:01:22 -0700 nell18-3 There is a bug going around in my familyIts highly infectiousAs soon as you catch it, there is no stoppingYou just have to pass it onMind you, this a great bug to getBecause if you catch it you know for sure you are loved!!!!I Love HugsIt makes me feel valued and it makes me feel lovedIts a shame that nowadays ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7055/Infectious-Hugs/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7055/Infectious-Hugs/ Fri, 10 Aug 2007 14:05:30 -0700 nell18-3 Do you ever think of yourselves as being the Safety NetBecause guess what you areChildren will only have the freedom to find their true selfAs long as they know they have a safety net to catch them if they fallBut if we don't prepare the safety net properlyOur children could get really hurtWhenever you see acrobats at a circus, they ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7018/Being-the-Safety-Net/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/7018/Being-the-Safety-Net/ Tue, 07 Aug 2007 02:19:33 -0700 nell18-3 Have you noticed how everyone in the worldwants everyone to like us!!!!Even the people we all know who say they don't care if people like us or not......Of course they would much prefer that people like themThey are saying if you don't like what they have to say then they don't careAnd in my opinion that is a great ability ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6992/I-Found-Me/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6992/I-Found-Me/ Fri, 03 Aug 2007 13:29:43 -0700 nell18-3 When I was going through my breakup, everything was a mass of confusion to meI had "friends" tell me they would stand by us bothI accepted this However at the same time, those very words stabbed at me!  If my friend came to me saying she was being abused....What would I do?????One way I have found of coping with the ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6971/Marital-AbuseHow-can-you-stay-neutral/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6971/Marital-AbuseHow-can-you-stay-neutral/ Wed, 01 Aug 2007 13:01:39 -0700 nell18-3 I've read a lot of articles lately about saving for Christmas etcSo I thought I would share with you this fantastic tip that my Mum doesIt works well for me tooAnd even I don't miss the money I save!!!!My Mum has a pot for each of her grandchildrenEverytime she has been out shopping, she goes through her coins and the ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6969/Fun-Way-of-Saving-for-Treats/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6969/Fun-Way-of-Saving-for-Treats/ Wed, 01 Aug 2007 02:49:18 -0700 nell18-3 What do you Think?Am I wrong??I think its okay to spoil my childrenBut I won't let them become SpoiltIs there a difference??I, for one, think that there is......To me, a Spoilt Child is one who has everything they want and more on demandWhereas, a Spoiled Child is the child who is happy with what they have but like everyone, they ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6933/Spoiling-is-FineIts-Spoilt-thats-Wrong/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6933/Spoiling-is-FineIts-Spoilt-thats-Wrong/ Mon, 30 Jul 2007 14:36:19 -0700 nell18-3 I cannot imagine the pain a parent goes through if circumstances were to take their child away from themBut I do know the pain a parent goes through when the child Lets You GoAs parents we have our children for lifeBut what if its the child who chooses that they don't want you for life????In tragic cases of losing your ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6923/When-your-Child-Lets-Go/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6923/When-your-Child-Lets-Go/ Sun, 29 Jul 2007 14:40:12 -0700 nell18-3 My 10 year old has just started a sad and disturbing habitHe Shuts Everyone Out when he is upsetI fear slight AutismI hurt when he does itWhat is the best way of handling this as a parent?Is it just Attention Seeking?Picture this,Your child is playing and he breaks something.....Whilst you are picking up the pieces of the broken item, you ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6904/The-Child-that-Shuts-You-Out/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6904/The-Child-that-Shuts-You-Out/ Sat, 28 Jul 2007 02:41:07 -0700 nell18-3 I've just been to work leaving my sons in the capable hands of my daughterTheir older, wiser, grown up sister.........What do I come back to find??????They are searching for things to use as "sledges" to ride down the stairs!Of course my first reaction was that of a parent"What are you playing at........" rant rant rantBut then my inner child shone ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6843/The-Child-In-Us-All/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6843/The-Child-In-Us-All/ Sun, 22 Jul 2007 05:43:03 -0700 nell18-3 Have you ever noticed what happens when you say No to your child??Sometimes they accept your decision with a simple shrug of their shouldersBut what about the times when they don't ........I have seen mine, plead, beg, cry, put on sad puppy eyes,Argue, Rage, Throw things etcBut no matter how it affects me as an aftermathIf I say No, I ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6828/No-Has-to-Mean-No/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6828/No-Has-to-Mean-No/ Sat, 21 Jul 2007 02:18:57 -0700 nell18-3 I believe everyone is the sameI think that colour of your skin is irrelevantI have raised my children to think the same wayBut I am disturbed at the amount of children who think differentlyWhy should skin colour in this day and age still be an issueUnless its the parents who are raising the children to think that way?????????I think since ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6820/Raising-Un-Prejudiced-Children/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6820/Raising-Un-Prejudiced-Children/ Fri, 20 Jul 2007 00:02:45 -0700 nell18-3 Firstly I need to point out this is a humorous articleWritten as a dare by my brother!!!!! So PLEASE don't take this too seriouslyWith a possible valid point at the end?????But mainly written to give you a little giggleBut did you know that handing down clothes from one child to nextMay be seriously detrimental to your childs mental development!!!!!For years ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6790/Hand-me-Not-Downs/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6790/Hand-me-Not-Downs/ Tue, 17 Jul 2007 08:27:06 -0700 nell18-3 For Years now, I have hated baths, sitting in dirty water was not for me!!!My way was to get out of bed in the morning and jump in the showerClean Water!!!!However, in my new home.........No Shower!!!!!!!!!!!When I calmed down enough to stop  the hyper ventilatingI decided there was nothing for it but to bathBut oh my goodness, in two short ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6772/The-Pleasure-of-a-Bath/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6772/The-Pleasure-of-a-Bath/ Sun, 15 Jul 2007 03:02:25 -0700 nell18-3 Minti is a parenting websiteIt is unique in this fieldThat is down to the clever planning that our creators put into the set up of MintiWe may not agree with every rule their isBut guess what?????IT DOESN"T MATTERThis site allows everyone a free willThis is how I am going to use mineWhy not join me..................Its no secret that I absolutely ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6771/Keeping-Minti-Smooth-Sailing/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6771/Keeping-Minti-Smooth-Sailing/ Sun, 15 Jul 2007 01:15:12 -0700 nell18-3 OK Go on ask me.....How do you Face Paint with a difference?????Simple ....Don't use paint????Have I totally and finally lost the plot????Not At All  !!!!!!Just wanted to pass on a relaxation technique that I use on my boys when they are stressedImaginary Face PaintingWhat you NeedOne Childs Face to PaintGentle VoiceParents Loving TouchHow it worksWhenever my two younger boys are ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6751/Face-Painting-with-a-Difference/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6751/Face-Painting-with-a-Difference/ Fri, 13 Jul 2007 10:39:15 -0700 nell18-3 Looking back on my relationship with my ExThe sign were there all alongDid I miss them?Did I explain them away?Did I not want to face up to it?Was I scared all the time?Whatever the reason I definitely did miss the signs.No one else can afford to!!!!!When I met my Ex Husband, I was a young naive 16 year old, from ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6750/Some-of-the-Early-Signs-I-missed-You-Shouldnt/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6750/Some-of-the-Early-Signs-I-missed-You-Shouldnt/ Fri, 13 Jul 2007 09:02:39 -0700 nell18-3 I have written an advice about letting the children help meNow this is one about me helping themI thought I was being a fair Mum letting them see their dad anytimeHave private phone callsChange the collecting and drop off times wheneverBut guess what we were playing right into his handsThe boys knew but didn't know what to do to stop ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6743/Help-your-children/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6743/Help-your-children/ Thu, 12 Jul 2007 14:09:21 -0700 nell18-3 OK I admit itI was an old fashioned Mum who felt I had to keep going for the sake of my childrenWhat I just realised is that children want to helpAnd when you let the children helpLife is so much brighterI believed my sons had seen enough tears from me so If I was a bit low, I did the ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6739/Let-Children-Help/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6739/Let-Children-Help/ Thu, 12 Jul 2007 08:42:16 -0700 nell18-3 One of the most important bones you need to get through lifeI know this only too well!!!I can't believe I thought I could get through life only being supported by other peoples backbonesListen to someone who knows!!!We all need a backbone!!!!Okay I thought I would start my writing again with tongue in cheek humourBut there is a serious point tooFor ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6725/We-need-our-Backbone/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6725/We-need-our-Backbone/ Wed, 11 Jul 2007 10:53:32 -0700 nell18-3 My 13 year old has had problems at schoolApparently his teachers think he has a bad attitudeThey think he has become sullen and rudeAnd angry and argumentativeDo they know my son at all???He is just hurt, confused and ...................a teenager!!!!!Thankfully its all sorted out now, but have had a bit of a journey with my 13 year old over the ... http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6489/Taking-on-a-School/ http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/6489/Taking-on-a-School/ Thu, 21 Jun 2007 15:53:47 -0700