Parenting Tips for Your 47-48 Month Old Child

When the big and little problems of your everyday life pile up to the point where you feel like hitting, slapping or spanking your child — STOP. Take time out. Do not take your problems out on your child. Try any or all of these simple alternatives. Use whatever works for you.

1. Stop in your tracks. Step back. Sit down.
2. Take five deep breaths. Inhale. Exhale, slowly, slowly.
3. Count to 10 or better yet, 20. Say the alphabet out loud.
4. Phone a friend or a relative.
5. Punch a pillow.
6. Thumb through a magazine, book, newspaper or photo album.
7. Do some sit-ups.
8. Pick up a pencil and write down your thoughts.
9. Throw some cold water on your face.
10. Lie down on the floor, or just put your feet up.
11. Put on your favorite music.
12. Water your plants; talk to them.