Learn Supernanny's 5 top tips for raising kids

When you need someone to leap a building in a single bound, you call Superman. But to get your kids to do what you ask, without a peep, you need Supernanny. British-born Jo Frost, known as Supernanny on the ABC television series, gets the best from children; now she shares her secrets with AllYou.com.

1. Be consistent

"A rule in your family should always be a rule," says Frost. And breaking a rule should always have consequences.

Be explicit. Instead of saying, "Don't bite," explain that nothing that hurts another person is acceptable.

Act right away if you see bad behavior. Start with a warning, proceed to an ultimatum and follow through with a time-out.

Use a Naughty Step for time-out. Sit the child on a staircase or in a chair so she is removed from the action but not so far that you can't see her. Using the word naughty reinforces that she misbehaved.

Get an apology. After she has cooled down, have her say, "I'm sorry." Then praise her for apologizing.

2. Team up with your husband on discipline

You and your spouse need to back each other up. Children being punished by one parent will go to the other to see if there's any mileage to be gained.

Establish house rules with your partner. If you decide on guidelines together, you'll have fewer disagreements about enforcing them.

Discuss differences privately. If you and your husband disagree on a decision, don't argue it out right then in front of your kids. Meet alone later to review family rules and discuss differences.

3. Give your time

"Children want your attention and approval," says Frost. "Make them a priority."

Don't wing it. Have a schedule that details everyone's activities and which parent is going to cover what.

Take turns with your husband. Take the morning or evening routine. "Use these times to give your children one-to-one attention," Frost says.

Focus on family. Quality time can suffer during the busy week, so leave work behind on weekends.