One of the greatest challenges facing parents is disciplining children. Discipline is not controlling or imposing a parent's will upon children. It is a positive way of helping and guiding children to achieve self-discipline. Discipline tips for parents are included. (MT)

Negotiating is important in family living, and children need to learn this valuable skill. Several tips on parent-child negotiating are presented as well as general guidelines for negotiating with preschoolers, elementary school children, and adolescents. (IAH)

The problem of determining when children are mature enough to be left alone at home is part of the broader problem of allowing children to be independent and gradually assume more responsibility for themselves. Guidelines for determining a child's readiness for this independence and for setting rules and expectations are discussed. (CB)

Parents should let children know that sexual abuse does occur and that children have some power to act if they are being exploited. This article describes common myths about child sexual abuse, what parents can do to help protect their children, and indicators of sexual abuse. (IAH)

Parents are offered information on identifying and living with a gifted child. The needs of gifted children, techniques for coping with them, and ways to encourage creativity are discussed. (MT)

Children with high self-esteem are less likely to succumb to pressure and do better in school. In this article parents are given advice on how to help their children develop self-esteem. Communication and a positive approach to life are emphasized. (IAH)

Describes how to plan enjoyable family times for parents and children. Activities can be based on the child's special interests, the parent's work or hobby, or a sense of adventure. The article suggests places to visit such as national wildlife preserves, aquariums, farms, newspapers, factories, candy stores, and greenhouses. (SM)

Children need to be educated about drugs at an early age. Parents can help by teaching their children to feel good about themselves and to develop and communicate a clear position about drugs. (DF)

Examines the effect of birth order on child development, noting that spacing of children, gender, family size, and family configuration all play a role in determining what effect birth order will have. The article looks at various traits of firstborn, middle, lastborn, and only children. (SM)

Ideas for raising strong, healthy children who won't abuse drugs are offered. (MT)

When explaining sexual assault to children, parents need to give enough specific information for the child to recognize behavior that may lead to an assault or may be an assault. Advice for parents on discussing sexual assault is offered. (DF)

Parents can encourage their children to communicate openly about difficult subjects if they learn to make themselves approachable and help their children turn their toughest feelings into words. The article identifies types of issues often kept hidden, then explains how to build skills and create an open environment. (SM)

Suggestions to help parents keep their children safe from injury include learn first aid; child-proof the home; use carseats and safety belts; lock up medications, toxic materials, sharp instruments, and guns; block off stairways; install smoke alarms; insist on bike helmets; and put safety plugs in electric sockets. (SM)

The accumulation of small stresses influences a child's mental and physical health. This article provides guidelines that parents and other adults may use in teaching children how to cope effectively with stress. (IAH)

Parents are advised on ways to cope with the peer pressure associated with clothes. Techniques focus on countering and preventing peer pressure or, at least, putting it into healthier perspective. A list of retorts children can make to peer critics is included. (IAH)