Video: How to keep your kids from feeling entitled

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We've all seen it - giving kids too much, too soon. It's happening for a variety of reasons. These days, parents have fewer children and can afford to lavish more toys and attention on them.

And parents are over-extended and exhausted and just want to do what's easy to keep their kids happy.

But the experts at ParentMap magazine say this over-indulgence is hurting our kids.

"This is a very wide-spread problem, not just affluent communities. It crosses all social and economic boundaries and basically the consequences can be quite detrimental," said Julie Ogata from ParentMap magazine. "Basically what you do when you give your child ALL these toys on a silver platter, you're teaching them a false sense of self. You're not really giving them true self esteem. And that's achieved by setting a goal - having your child set a goal. Do chores around the house.  And then they get that toy as something that is building self-esteem."

The good news is that experts say parents can reverse the trend by creating new habits, not by using threats and ultimatums, but by using positive reinforcement.

They say don't bribe your kids to do chores, but do allow them small rewards when they do a good job. And do expect your kids to do chores.

Don't be afraid to reassess things after a few weeks and adjust your strategy if needed.

And above all, don't give up. Experts say it may take awhile and it won't be easy, but in the end you will have a happier, healthier family.