Parent to Parent: Foregiveness

Like any other set of siblings, Alissa and Alexa can be playing one minute, then arguing the next.

That's why the family believes in forgiving and forgetting.

Ana Infante, mom
"We try to be happy-go-lucky, both of us with them and with each other, not to keep that anger that, as adults, you tend to do that."

Begin by teaching your child that everyone makes mistakes. Explain to them that sometimes things happen that are just out of their control. Then, tell them it's ok to be upset, but show them they don't have to lose their cool.

The best way is leading by example. For example, if your child breaks something...

Dr. Valerie Goode, parenting expert
"You can tell your child, 'I am upset about it.' You can discuss the fact that he broke the vase. You will discuss the fact that perhaps he was playing basketball in the middle of the living room, but you aren't going to overreact, and, ultimately, it is hopeful that you will forgive him for doing so. We all make mistakes."

But make sure your child takes responsibility for their actions.Teach them to apologize to others and to themselves and really mean it.

To do that, have them share their feelings, work through the problem and correct their own mistakes.

Then, once your child does apologize, parents -- and this is important -- make sure you do not continue to remind them of what they did wrong, forgive and forget.

It's a lesson both Alissa and Alexa are now taking to heart.

(Copyright 2007 Sunbeam Television. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)