When most parents think of the characteristics they want to instill in their children, empathy is usually at the top of the list. After all, we want our kids to be considerate of other people’s feelings. Caring children eventually become thoughtful, compassionate adults who take other people’s feelings into consideration….
You can’t stand the suggestive lyrics in your tween’s favorite music, but your preschooler’s Wiggles obsession drives you batty. It’s tough to explain to a child terms like “sexy,” “booty” and “hooking up,” but it seems like that (and worse) is all over the airwaves. And if you catch yourself…
It’s every parent’s worst nightmare — the incessant crying that just doesn’t seem to cease. For new — and old — parents, those crying jags can feel like they go on forever. Fits of screams that don’t stop…no matter what you do. But have you really tried everything? There are…
For many kids, summer fun just wouldn’t be fun without a big outdoor bubble party! But before you go out and buy a pricey bubble-blowing machine, why not give making your own bubble formula a try? It’s cheap, easy and may even make bigger bubbles than the storebought kind. You…
The holidays can be a real ruff time for your pampered pet if you don’t take the proper precautions. ‘Tis the season to deck the halls. Unfortunately, those decorations can often mean danger ahead for your dog or cat. It’s important to be alert and keep pet safety at the…
Words can open up a world of knowledge and adventure for your children, and reading to them is so important in their development. Here are 5 ways to make reading to your child a habit. Read your child’s favorite book over and over… and over… (you know the drill). Choose…
Computers and the internet have become a way of life. Telling your kids that they can’t go on the internet is like telling them they can’t breathe. Not only has the internet become a social aspect for kids, it is also educational. Kids are expected to know their way around…
It’s every parent’s worst nightmare — you’re at a family gathering or birthday party when your young child drops the “S” bomb, or even worse, the “F” bomb. Your face is on fire, and you’re absolutely mortified. Surely everybody knows that they heard the expletive from you, which means you’re…
It’s crunch time. Not at work-work, though. At mom-work. It’s the countdown to my daughter’s school musical. And in school theater world, that’s what we call a crazy busy week. So … as I sit here at the school late in the evening waiting for rehearsal to end … after…
This is a time of year when kids are called upon to give thanks, but many don’t truly know how to express gratitude. Thanksgiving is a great time to teach children why it’s important to give of themselves and to say thank you, regardless of the time of year. Incorporating…