WAYS TO BE A PATIENT PARENT:

Be a planner:
Have morning dawdlers choose their clothes the night before and put their packed-and-ready backpacks by the door.  "To ease homework drama, have them do it as soon as they're home.

Have family meetings:
Every week, discuss what went well, what didn't and how to do things differently.  Get consensus from the kids; they'll be "much more invested in seeing it through."  "Plus, they come up with ideas that are unique and usually work."

Set clear consequences:
Ask the kids what the consequences should be.  "Instead of drawing a line, you make them your ally."  That means children help set rules, assign chores and establish routines.  They'll feel respected.  No questions.  And, best of all, no arguments.

[Taken from USA Weekend (May 4-6, 2012]