1. You believe that nurturing the whole child is necessary for true well-being and stability
2. You use “time-ins” instead of “time-outs” to engage your children and not create distance
3. You know that trusting relationships and respect hold the real power for change
4. You see all behavior as meaningful communication of inner feelings
5. You believe that “therapy” can occur in a variety of ways and in different environments
6. You try to use positive language and messages with your child whenever possible
7. You give your children opportunities to be helpful and contribute to the family; not just by doing “chores”
8. You’d rather be a “listener” than a “lecturer”
9. You ask “what happened to you?” and not “what’s wrong with you?’ when your child has challenging behavior
10. You know that “love” is different from “like”; but both are important parts of the parent/child relationship

Remember, we are all in this together, in the best interests of the children and youth in your care. Thank you for all you do!