January 1 is just two days away. A new year means a new you, right? Not so fast. How many times have you made a laundry list of New Year’s resolutions only to fall off the wagon within days? Whether it’s losing weight, quitting smoking or becoming more organized, we…
With Christmas just a couple of days away, you’re all set to receive. But have you had the opportunity to give? One of the most rewarding things about the holidays is having the chance to help others. In the current economic climate, there is no shortage of families in need….
No one is perfect, and that fact becomes even more obvious when you become a parent. It’s tough not to hold yourself up to traditional mom role models, like June Cleaver, but even June Cleaver wasn’t that perfect. She just didn’t have “experts” like Dr. Phil and Oprah telling her…
Ah, the lazy days of summer. Unlike the rest of the year, the rules change come summertime, especially when it comes to meals. If you haven’t already, it’s time to put those canned soups and raviolis and on the backburner in favor of some lighter fare. Take a vacation from…
New year, same old dilemma — how do you stave off those horrid hangovers after the biggest party night of the year? While the only tried-and-true way to ward off is abstinence of alcoholic beverages, there are some steps you can take that may lessen the blow. Of course, there’s…
The idea of owning a cell phone appeals to most kids, especially tweens, who are forming social groups and getting involved in after-school activities. But how do you know when it’s time to let them phone home with their very own phone? The first thing to investigate is whether or…
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the cost of raising a child can be an estimated $200,000… not including the price of college. With those kinds of expenses, it behooves you to cut your costs wherever you can. Most people don’t realize how very simple saving a buck can…
If you’re looking for that flash of brilliance in your child that may signal that he’s smarter than other kids, then you may be ready to slap on that “gifted” label. Whether your child walked, talked, read or reached some other developmental milestone earlier than his peers, it’s tempting to…
For every action there is a reaction. We’re talking about consequences, and it’s an important lesson kids should learn in life sooner rather than later. It goes without saying that you want children to learn the consequences for their actions, especially when those actions aren’t appropriate. Ann Douglas, author of…
Sometimes it seems that babies cry for absolutely no reason. You’ve fed, burped, changed and clothed the baby properly. You’ve ruled out illness. And if you have to play that Barney song one more time to get the baby to calm down, then you’re the one who’ll be crying. What…