As a parent of 2 very stubborn children, I have had to learn very quickly when to pick my battles and when to stand my ground.  This concept can also be known as when to say yes or when to say no.  Here are some hard set lines on when I say no.

1. Respect– always say thank-you, please and you are welcome.

2. Violence-No hitting, biting, scratching or anything else.  I do not do it to them so they will not do it to me or anyone else.

3. Personal hygiene-They need to take baths, brush teeth, brush hair, etc

Anything else is on a case by case basis.  I have a way of letting them think they are getting there way when I really am.  Saying yes is about figuring out what you are okay with and then find a way to compromise the rest.  I want my children to be happy, but I also want them to grow up with rules and boundaries.  It is a struggle everyday, but that is what support is for and tomorrow is always another day to fight the good fight called parenting!