If you've watched the new How To Train Your Dragon 2 movie you'll know how important it is to have a well behaved, trustworthy and dependable dragon to team up with and go on wonderful adventures with. Without this relationship well things can get out of hand very quickly and you'll have one unhappy dragon and one frazzled owner!

We think children are pretty similar to dragons; temperamental, messy, weird eating habits and at times they have a "fiery" personality!

So to help you have a more relaxed school holidays we've got 5 tips to help your children be more like the loveable dragons from How To Train Your Dragon 2 and less like the angry, temper tantrum dragons they sometimes turn in to?

1) Give them some control

Kids love to feel like they have some control over their decisions, no matter how minute. So instead of always telling them exactly what the plan is, offer them a chance to have some input. For example, instead of telling them "it's time to go", ask them "do you want one last go on the video games, or one last chance to win some more tickets before we leave". 

By putting the ball in their court, it can stop them from feeling pressured or out of control and instead, they'll enjoy making a decision for themselves.

2) Keep them in the loop

Another idea to prevent any sudden outbursts is to actually set expectations prior to leaving the house.

Let them know exactly where you are going and when. By sharing the plan of attack, they won't be so taken by surprise when it comes time to move on or head somewhere new. 

3) Dragon see, dragon do

Lead by example. Your little dragon may be nervous or just doesn't want to look silly in front of unfamiliar people in unfamiliar surroundings, so show them they can be as confident as you by getting out of  YOUR comfort zone.

They will be intrigued to see you walking up to the ball return, having a shot down the alley and then high five-ing those around you (Even if you miss). Your little dragon will see that they can be just as strong and outgoing, and that no harm will come to them if they try something new. Just be sure to be the first in line for a high five when they give it a go!

4) R-E-S-P-E-C-T

Aretha Franklin was on to something here. Give your child the same respect that you would like back. Try and refrain from name-calling or labelling, saying "you're a spoiled brat" or "you're being ridiculous" will only make things worse. Instead, keep the focus on the behaviour that you would like to change and speak to your lovely little dragon the same way you would like to be spoken to.

5) Spread the love

How good do you feel when someone you look up to acknowledges your hard work and achievements? It's a universal feel good moment and kids feel this just as much as adults. So when you're little dragon hits the pins, gets spare or even a strike make sure The person they look up to the most (You) are watching and ready to give the biggest high five possible.