Parents Talk: What to Do With a Spoiled Kid?

It's an all-too-common sight in retail store toy departments: a toddler or young child wailing because his or her parents won't buy them the latest Bratz doll, action figure or board game.

Parenting advice websites have plenty of tips for moms and dads dealing with a spoiled child. Teach your child the difference between wants and needs, one column says. Instill a sense of budgeting in your child, another recommends.

As a parent, how do you handle those volatile, sometimes embarrassing situations? Or, better yet, how do you keep your kids from becoming spoiled in the first place?

Our Parents Council members—, , —are ready to share their experiences and suggestions for having kids volunteer, and encourage you to jump in with your ideas or ask for ideas from other parents.

Post your thoughts in the comments section below. Also, if you’re a mom or dad and live in the area and are interested in joining our Parents Council to help guide our weekly discussion topics, e-mail Editor David Henke at david.henke@patch.com.