If you’re anything like me (and if you have a strong-willed child, I’m betting we have a few things in common!), this thought has crossed your mind at least once: “Is it my fault my child is so difficult to parent?” A simple request to your child can result in her melting down into a temper tantrum. Too much noise or stimulation can mean excess energy–I’m thinking of my own strong-willed daughter zooming around the house the other night, exclaiming with glee, “I just LOVE the holidays! They give me …

No matter what winter holidays you celebrate, this season is likely to be full of excitement and expectations. And when you add a challenging child into the mix, life can get overwhelming. Enjoying traditions is one thing that can help create less stress and more peace. At our house, I like to play the same versions of Christmas songs that I grew up with (Kenny Burrell’s “Have Yourself A Soulful Little Christmas” and Elvis’ “Blue Christmas“) to put me in the holiday mood. Just hearing the songs takes me …