Instead of just taking away privileges when the child brings home a bad grade, try praising and rewarding a good grade with a surprise. A study found that kids hear the word "no" an average of every nine minutes, thus negating its effect. Try replacing "don't" and "no" with more positive phrasing: "Don't yell indoors!" might be replaced with "Thank you for using your inside voice." Resolving to spend more time with your kids and family is a fantastic goal, as is taking time for yourself - we all need a little alone time. But put a number on those resolutions - "I will spend 15 more minutes with my child per day" or "I'll spend 10 minutes reading the newspaper (or doing something else important to you) each day." Spending quality time with your family and recharging your batteries will make you a better mom all year long.