Let's Define Difficult

• Overly EMOTIONAL

Some children just can't calm themselves down, especially when they're feeling more than one negative emotion (such as sadness and anxiety). They have a particularly tough time with unfamiliar situations and changes. It doesn't help when you get angry or frustrated-even if you're convinced that your child is being irrational. The best thing to do is anticipate events that may be difficult, and then try to prepare them. For instance, if a new babysitter is coming over, plan to stay home for a while before you leave so you can help the two of them get acquainted.

• Highly ENERGETIC

Children with super-high energy levels tend to get themselves into trouble. Make sure that your child has periods of active play every day so he can burn off steam. To keep him from creating havoc when you're in public, always carry little diversions in your bag. If you're going to travel, for example, bring games and books, It's probably not a good idea to take a young child like this to a nice restaurant. In general, try to pick your battles: as long as your child isn't destroying things or doing something that's dangerous, just let him run around a bit.

• Totally IMPATIENT

If your child have a short fuse, it's crucial for you to stay calm. Resist the temptation to yell and threaten. Constant nagging and harsh consequences might actually make the situation worse. Instead, set clear rules that involve mild punishments. If your child breaks a rule, one night of no TV or five minutes of time-out will have an impact. A week of no TV or an hour of time-out will just make your child resentful-and probably won't change the behavior, which is your main objective.