PHOTO Credit: Marcin Jozwiak/Unsplash Even though more and more families stop after having one child, many debate having second, third or more children. The decision tends to be based on practical factors–finances, career goals, living space—with a modicum of focus on how children affect your happiness. Laurie Santos, professor of psychology at Yale University, explained… Read More
For years, our family had “Ralph” in all his plush furry glory. He was our secret sauce for building the children’s memories. How children remember differs by their age and the “ingredients” parents need to use… Read More
In all their different roles, our friends are supportive, can be counted on, and enjoyable—at the least, that’s what we hope they will be. Take the quiz to evaluate your friendships and learn how to strengthen them.… Read More
How do you know your own parenting stress level? Jessica Valenti, author of Why Have Kids?, believes that if you’ve ever felt like you face an onslaught of constant worries, demands, and sudden curveballs, you’re not alone. Valenti writes, “Nearly every study done in the last ten years on parental happiness shows a marked decline in… Read More
Your family medicine cabinet seems less threatening than hard drugs or alcohol abuse. However, consider this: Some teens turn to easily accessible over-the-counter cough medicine for a buzz. We’ll look at three ways to prevent teen DXM abuse. In this guest post, Anita Brikman, from the Consumer Healthcare Products Association, presents things parents can do… Read More
There is no right or wrong family size, but there is strong evidence demonstrating a firstborn and only child edge. In families, the finite resources parents have means that any given sibling will be given less time and attention than if they were an only child. In essence, siblings compete for whatever their parents can provide. … Read More
Here are five parent-proven strategies for putting the brakes on stress so that you can be the calm and caring parent you want to be.… Read More
Tips for saying no, featured in the Book of No “Yes.” “Sure.” “No problem.” You’re asked and you agree. That’s a guaranteed formula for making yourself miserable. Here are a few more reminders from The Book of NO: Think “no” before you think “yes”, I will do that for you. The word “no” is enough. Lengthy explanations leave… Read More