Children will be much happier if they are invited to give their input when decisions are made. This helps them feel important, and they will be more invested in outcomes if they can participate in making the decision in the first place.

While it's important to invite your kids to participate, don't be afraid of setting appropriate limits. Limits allow your children safe parameters when making decisions. For example, you may invite your children to decide which movie to see on the weekend, but by warning them that they may not see a rated 'R' movie, you know that their decision will be appropriate. Remember, parents have the power to "veto" some decisions.

Family meetings are an excellent place to make decisions such as:

• Dinner menus
• Family activities
• TV viewing
• Household rules and consequences
• Chores