"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?
Sol-Mi and the Little Songs That Are Important for Kids' Development
The sol-mi interval is found in many nursery rhymes and singing games. These little songs are important and can foster a lifelong love of music.
My Dog Is Potty Training My Daughter
My daughter has been much more interested in the bathroom use of our Boston Terrier, Judith Weiland, than anyone else in our home.
The Frustrating Zen of Cleaning With a Toddler
That feeling that there is always more to do – that is a permanent state. May as well embrace it.
Why Betty Friedan's "The Feminine Mystique" Still Inspires
Betty Friedan explored identity and motherhood in her society-changing book, “The Feminine Mystique,” published in 1963. 55 years later, it still resonates.
12 Ways to Prepare for Motherhood So You Don't Totally Lose It
Here's a list of things you can practice before you birth your baby so that you maintain a sense of self when you're suddenly alone with a newborn all day.
Why Those Baby Snuggles May Be More Important Than You Think
Physical contact between infants and their caregivers can even affect children at the molecular level – an impact that’s detectable four years later.
Take Your Child to a Bookstore, and Build the Future
Across the U.S., bookstores set aside the first Saturday in December to celebrate the magic that happens when every kid has a book to read.
8 Parenting Lessons From the Dutch on Raising Happy and Resilient Kids
Each culture has its own unique strengths and beautiful ways of living life, and parenting is no exception.
Could Attention Seeking Be Connection Seeking?
The term "attention seeking" generally refers to unwanted and demanding behaviors. When children seek attention, they are seeking connection and validation.
Want to Raise a Capable, Independent Kid? Say Yes to the Mess
Giving your kid free reign of the kitchen may mean spilled milk, dropped eggs and a few mini-catastrophes. But it's well worth the mess.
How Janet Lansbury Made Me a Confident Father
From Janet Lansbury's books, to blogs, to podcasts, I've found her to be my best parenting resource.
Dear Teacher: Please Just Give My Kid What She Deserves
Teachers, please don’t be afraid of raising your standards and expectations. Our kids are capable of more than you are asking for.