When in stressful situations, it can be common for parents to have “knee-jerk” reactions. We may lash out at our children, raise our voices, or become irrationally upset about little things. Some parents will even resort to what was modeled in their own childhood when in the heat of the moment. These reactions can lead
Having a second baby, or any child after that is a big change for a family. This new child might seem fussier or more difficult than your first. We want to offer some ideas to help parents adjust well to the new addition. Here are some things to consider: Your Bond with Baby: As you now
We’ve all been there (or will be there soon!). Your child is trying to tell you something, but you just can’t figure out what he is trying to say. Your child isn’t ready to be done with the activity he is in the middle of when it’s time to leave. Or maybe you are trying
Have you ever noticed how life has a tendency to throw all sorts of unexpected twists and turns, especially at the least convenient times? I’ve heard enough experiences to know that this doesn’t just happen to me; everyone has their own story. It’s often hard for me (but really, most adults as well) to deal
“More than screen-obsessed young children, we should be concerned about tuned-out parents.” This statement jogged my memory of a photo I once saw. It was of a couple sitting up in bed, as they were illuminated by the light of their phones in the darkness of the night. Neither of them appeared to be speaking to
Every family deals with stress. This is normal and it is not always a bad thing. Families can experience stress when waiting for something exciting, like adding a new child to the family. This stress helps motivate preparation for the new baby. Stress can help us realize that something is wrong and it can help
Do you remember the first pet you ever owned? I remember being 5 years old when I got my first pet; a blue betta fish named Rainbow Blue. I was thrilled to have this little fish that was all mine. Every day I made sure to feed it and attend to its needs. Eventually, I
Imagine that you are at home with your children. You’re scrolling through your social media feed while your spouse is working on their laptop. Your toddler and preschooler are watching a children’s program on the television and your school-aged child is playing a game on your tablet. Suddenly the power goes out, taking the precious
Have you ever been on an airplane? Before the plane takes off the flight attendant reminds the passengers where the safety exits are located and how to access the overhead oxygen mask. Importantly, they instruct the passengers to put on their masks before helping another person. Why is it important to put your oxygen on
In 2001, The Center for the Study of Social Policy (CSSP) began studying how education programs and early child care across the country could prevent child abuse and neglect and build healthy, happy families. They came up with an approach called Strengthening Families. Strengthening Families is a research-informed approach to increase family strengths, enhance child development,
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