"When you corner a cat, you should be prepared to get scratched.

Similarly, when you verbally accuse your mate, you should expect a defensive comeback.

Moneyspeak messages that begin with 'you' (as in 'you never pay the bills on time') are usually treated with suspicion and counterattack.

In most cases they're verbal acts of war.

Instead, use 'I' messages whenever possible.

Beginning sentences with 'I' (as in 'I believe ... ' or 'I'm worried about') conveys a much different intention.

'I' messages are reflections of your own state of mind, not judgments about your mate's.

They acknowledge a subjectivity in your viewpoint; that you're not making sweeping, all-knowing claims about your partner's behavior."
- Victoria F. Collins, Best Selling Author, Couples and Money

Parenting Essentials: Ten Steps to More Confident Parenting. Dr. Lynne Kenney, a self-professed "nine year-old at heart," recognizes that we live in a stressful world.

She also believes that kids are resilient and forgiving, and that in the face of challenges, we can raise strong, independent children while living passionately and helping our children do the same.