The Kind Stranger: a Missed Opportunity to Show Compassion
This is a submission in our monthly contest. November’s theme is Gratitude. “He has beautiful eyes,” the stranger on the street said, about my son. He then reached out and touched my son’s hand, ge...
Finding My Place While Parenting as an Immigrant
I learned not only to come to terms with my role as a mom straddling two cultures, but to be proud of that identity.
Why Christmas Is No Longer a Time for Giving, but a Time for Pressure
I love Christmas as much as you do. But please don’t judge me when I say I find it all a bit too much. I feel the pressure of it.
Loving it All – the Way it is – Right Now
Maybe all this pressure to slow down and appreciate every moment is another form of the absurd expectations we put on ourselves, or each other, or both.
Shaping Our Kids' View of Alcohol: What Parents Need to Know
As parents, we can help our kids have a balanced view about alcohol from where they can make their own decisions when the time inevitably comes.
These Rideshare Companies Shuttle Your Most Precious Cargo – Your Kids
Sometimes your kid just needs a ride somewhere, not a sitter to watch them. In the age of the smartphone, there’s an app for that.
I still give her everything a father should, but now, more than ever, I give extra doses of confidence.
The Student Who Taught Me I Have Room for Thankfulness
This is a submission in our monthly contest. November’s theme is Gratitude. As I drove from my house in the country, fields and green lawns gave way to rows of colorful single-family homes and then...
Talking to Your Kids About Sexual Harassment...Before They Even Know About Sex
There's no reason to talk specifically about sexual harassment with very young kids unless they ask about it. If they bring it up, be prepared.
Let’s Quit Doing the Work for Our Kids
How are children supposed to learn to do their own best work when parents intervene and micromanage?
What If We Treated Sex Like Driving?
Just as a thought experiment, how would it be if we talked with our children about sex the same way we talk with them about driving?
Can Your Child Stay Home Alone? A One-Question Quiz.
Several factors can help determine if your kid is ready to stay home alone. But this one question can bring even more clarity.
"Oprah's Favorite Things 2017" - the Reality Edition
I took a look at some of these items and, no offense to Queen Oprah, but I beg to differ.
How to Be a Parent Your Child Wants to Talk To
Two habits that parents’ routinely engage in that shut down communication and drive a child away: negating feelings and mistaking sympathy for empathy.
Me, My Son's Wheelchair, and a Frankenboot
I was unloading the wheelchair from the van – something I’ve done successfully a thousand times. Until this one time.
How Our Reactions to Kids' Misbehavior Steers Their Future Outbursts
The way in which we react to this irritating behavior can influence how our kids learn to regulate their own emotions and behavior in the future.
At each stage in life, I envisioned money as something that would just be there when I needed it – until it wasn't. These hard-won lessons were my reward.
What a Hostage Negotiator Can Teach Us About Parenting
Most of us will never be in a situation where someone's life is on the line, but knowing how to apply negotiation skills can make daily interactions easier.
Not That You Need A Study to Prove it, But a New One About Spanking Offers a Deeper Case Against it
These findings suggest that spanking is not only an ineffective technique, but that it also makes children’s behavior worse.
Why Buying Organic Isn't My Top Concern
I feel the pull toward the organic milk and fruit, but the truth is my wallet wins out and I go with what’s cheaper.
Sweater Hugs, Here and Now, and From Beyond
This well worn sweater- it’s hers, it’s mine, and with it, we will always be together. At least, that’s what my grieving mind still tells me.
Will Your Family History Survive the Digital Dark Age?
The promise of a “digital dark age” is enough to send this archivist into panic mode. So what’s to be done about it?
Why Time Apart Might Be the Perfect Marriage Elixir
Though it seems counter-intuitive, one of the best things you can do for your marriage is to step away from it, regularly and intentionally.
Is Technology Squashing Our Kids’ Critical Thinking Skills?
How will kids ever learn to retain information and connect the dots if technology rapidly provides all the answers?