When I was growing up, my dad was the disciplinarian. If we did something naughty while he was at work, Mom would say, "Wait until your dad gets home," and we knew we were in for it. When Dad got home, justice was always served... and whatever the punishment was, it was carried out. We learned our lessons … [Read more...]
Handling Drama: When Students and Teachers Don’t Click
It's a fact that no matter how good a person you are, there's bound to be someone in this world who won't like you. You're oil and she's water, and no matter what you do, the two of you just don't mix. This can happen with a student and teacher, as well, especially with smaller children who are just … [Read more...]
Tips and Tricks: Get Back Into the Post-Vacation Routine
I was very nervous when my oldest started school. I guess I wasn’t ready for him to be that grown up yet, but he loves it… for now. Even though he enjoys the actual school day, one aspect of the academic year that has been known to add an occasional outburst in our house involves bedtime after a … [Read more...]
Have a Healthy, Happy Holiday Party Season With Your Kids
With all the parties the holiday season brings, it’s easy for kids to eat their weight in cookies, cakes and candies. It’s only natural for them to want Grandma’s homemade peppermint fudge instead of Uncle Paul’s veggie tray, so it can be a challenge to keep them eating somewhat healthily during … [Read more...]
10 Things You Can’t Forget for a Hotel Stay With Kids
1. Snacks. Packing simple, easy-to-munch snacks like raisins, chips, trail mix and fresh fruit will save you time and money. 2. Drinks. Between snacks and drinks, vending machines and convenience stores will drain your wallet. 3. Lovey. If your kid has a lovey that helps him get to sleep, like … [Read more...]
Winter Safety Tips for Kids Playing in the Snow
As I’m writing, my kids and I are watching the first snowfall in our area. We’re a little late in the game this year, but for a winter lover like me, any snow is good snow. My son has been asking for snow for a few weeks now. He’s a chip off the ol’ block o’ Mom. He can’t wait to build … [Read more...]
Ho-Ho-Hold That Smile: Pictures With Santa Claus
There’s nothing like a sweet picture of your little one nestled comfortably on the lap of Santa Claus. As your daughter sits on his lap and whispers her deepest wish, a photographer captures the moment to be shared in this year’s Christmas cards. If your children are older and have a full grasp … [Read more...]
Children and Internet Safety: Keep a Parental Eye on Your Kids’ Online Interactions
A younger relative of mine is one of my “friends” on Facebook. I first accepted her friend request in hopes of better staying in touch, since we only see each other a few times during the year. At first, the page was filled with your average tween crises like not having enough frizz-ease after gym … [Read more...]
Beyond Twinkle Twinkle: Soothing Songs for Bedtime
After having been through thousands of bedtime routines, I've grown weary of the standard dreamy fare. The shared melody of Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star, The Alphabet Song and Baa Baa Black Sheep leads to the instant onset of an obnoxious eye-twitch, which, let's just say it, isn't cool. Other songs, … [Read more...]
Five Ways to Boost Your Child’s Self-Esteem
As parents, we spend a large amount of our time correcting our children and often forget to mix it up with sincere positivity. Children's self-esteem starts with their parents. If kids feel they're constantly under scrutiny, they begin to feel as though they can't do anything right. Helping your child … [Read more...]












