Tough love is...well...tough. But it is also sometimes necessary.

Oftentimes, when parents lose control of their children, they bring their kiddos my way. Almost inevitably, the root cause is a lack of structure and boundaries at home.

Every parent wants to see his or her child happy and no one enjoys saying no to a kid. So, people often go overboard and give their child everything they want, including control. And that's where the problems begin. Yoga is where they end.

When I work with children who are always used to getting their way, I set firm yet forgiving rules. For example, the child must do what I want him or her to do, but I will also give them choices, so they feel like they are maintaining some control.

At first, children may rebel against me--and may even hate me--for placing behavioral expectations on them that they have never experienced before. But over time--and usually over a short time--a new feeling arises within them. It's called respect.

Done right, holding children accountable for their actions and behaviors creates not only a mutually respectful relationship between you and your student, but also richer and more fulfilling relationships with their family, friends, teachers, and everyone else who orbits their lives.

And that's the mini yogis minute tip of the week. Check back every week to learn something new!