Direct your child's activities, but don't be too bossy.

Give reasons when you ask your child to do something. Say, for example, "Please move your truck from stairs so no one falls over it"--not, "Move it because I said so."

Listen to your children to find out how he feels and whether he needs special support.

Show love and respect when you are angry with your child. Criticize your child's behavior but not child. Say for example, "I love you, but it's not okay for you to draw pictures on walls. I get angry when you do that."

Help your child make choices and work out problems. You might ask your 4-year-old, for example, "What can we do to keep your brother from knocking over your blocks?"

Be positive and encouraging. Praise your child for a job well done. Smiles and encouragement go much further to shape good behavior than harsh punishment.

Children also become excited about starting school when their parents show excitement about this big step. As your child gets ready to enter kindergarten, talk to him about school. Talk about exciting things that he will do in kindergarten, such as making art projects, singing and playing games. Be enthusiastic as you describe all important things that he will learn from his teacher--how to read, how to how to count and how to measure and weigh things.