[votemom]

no kids of any age want to look you in the eye if they are in trouble. this carries through to teens for sure.

i recommend getting down on his level, talking to him in a calm and quiet voice, and maybe even hold him in your lap as you talk about the specific behavior. tell him to look at you when you are speaking. you are teaching him respect and you are respecting him in return by maintaining your self control.

it's a process and it continues for many years and yes it can be exhausting! especially kids who are strong-willed. sometimes you will feel like all you do is discipline them. but you just need to remember that discipline is teaching them stuff that is going to help them succeed in life, and in healthy relationships after they leave the nest.