We are a very busy household where . . . → Read More: How To Teach Children Good Anger Management Skills]]> A house which is calm and is relaxed is normally a great place to be. Both parents are going to argue and have their differences, however they need to be adult enough to wait to discuss their issues once the kids have gone out or are in bed.

We are a very busy household where both parents work; I help people to stop stuttering by running speech courses which are one a one-to-one basis and my partner runs a company which offers bargain holiday deals as well as enabling people to learn how to become a foster parent.

I am also a parent and am by no means a perfect dad. I have told my children that all I expect of them is to try their best, as long as they do this, it does not matter what grades they achieve. Two years ago my step-daughter who is now twelve started to play up, especially at school. I was quite shocked when I attended her parents evening to find out that she had not handed in her homework, that she had made little effort in the past couple of terms and that she had been disruptive to other members of her class.

To say I was unhappy with her is an under-statement. I was very angry, however told her that I did not want to speak about it until we arrived home.  When we had arrived home, I stated to her that I was upset about what I had heard and informed her that if she had done well, I would have bought her anything that she wanted, up to a certain amount of money. She was quite shocked by that and stated, even the England football kit? I said that I would have but that she was not having it now. I did however agree that if she did well during the next few terms, that I would.

She has never looked back since, but my bank manager is not happy with the situation. I have also introduced a weekly bribe. If both of my children behave during the week they can choose a toy of their choice on the Saturday, again within reason. If and it often happens they do not deserve the toy, I have no need to become angry as they just do not get the reward. This makes them annoyed but teaches them a huge lesson.

Some would no doubt say that this is some sort of cop out however it is working very nicely in my house thank you very much.