Need a Parent Support Similar to ECFE for Older Kids.

Edina has great "beyond ECFE" monthly classes:
http://www.edina.k12.mn.us/community/familycenter/beyonde...
If you're in St. Paul, it's far, but not too bad for once a month.

Also, I've recently discovered John Rosemond & his books. Having spent the last 6 years in ECFE, I wasn't too keen on his "because I said so" strict approach. But, it's TOTALLY working for my kids. I couldn't be happier & my kids also couldn't be happier. They're obedient, and, when they're not, I calmly enforce the consequences that they know are coming, so they (usually) don't throw a big fit about it. I would recommend starting with his "Well Behaved Child" book.

Good luck!

I would try calling ECFE and ask them what resources are available for kids your age.

I would also recommend the book, How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk, by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish. You can probably find it at your library.

Best wishes!!!!! =o)

I use Love and Logic and it seems to work well.http://www.loveandlogic.com/

You are the parent--parent is a verb as well as a noun. A verb is an action word so take action--now. He won't pick up???? Tell him he has 10-20 minutes to pick up after himself or you will do it for him, then take the stuff away for one week. I don't care if it's his school stuff or winter jacket. If this is toys like video games they would be gone for a week or more. Tell him he is privialged to have a home and as a part of your family he needs to keep his stuff picked up. He needs to help with dishes and laundry. It's time he learned how to dust, vacuum, mop floors, clean bathrooms and make meals. He's not a baby anymore and in less than 10 years he will out on his own. No matter how bad he trys to make you feel about making him help--understand that you are doing him a favor.
My best friend's Mom never made the kids do anything. When she and her hubby got together he had to show her how to run a vacuum, do dishes, she still struggles with cooking over 20 yrs later. She knew nothing about keeping a home clean. The largest part of parenting is teaching your children to lead honest responsible adult lives.

Maybe he needs to spend some time volunteering at a homeless shelter. He will learn how lucky he is to have a home and a family, not everyone has them and it should never be taken for granted.