Let them get on with it: They’ve got to learn to plan their own lives. And that means learning the consequences of making the wrong decisions too.

Teach them to think for themselves.

Use praise wisely: Right amount, right ways for the right things. Be specific too.

Know the value of boundaries.

Bribery doesn’t have to be bad: Ideally make the reward fit the request.

Moods are catching: Parents are responsible.

The way the children eat will set up habits they will find it very hard to break: We’ve taught the Daughter that desserts are where it’s at as she doesn’t get one if she doesn’t eat her main course.

Communicate.

Set clear targets.

Don’t be a nag: Use didn’t rather than never.

Carrots beat sticks.

Be consistent.

Lighten up.