Guidance that fosters gratitude and joy and works beautifully for children with siblings too. Parents of only children often face unique challenges during the holidays, especially when it comes to a child’s sense of entitlement. The following suggestions are drawn from one-child parents’ experiences and strategies, offering practical ways to enjoy celebrations at the same… Read More
A revolution is taking place, not in the streets or through political upheaval, but in the private lives of families across the world. The only child is rapidly becoming the dominant family unit, reshaping what was once considered traditional. The Quiet Family Size Shift Seen Around the World In Canada and the UK, 45% of… Read More
As parents, it’s natural that we want our children to be successful. We want them to do well in the world and not struggle. But this can become a burden on children when parents overemphasize achievement in academics, sports or the arts. Without meaning to put pressure on children, we can get caught up in… Read More
We are living in a new era, one in which family as we knew it (mom, dad, 2 kids) is being redefined in myriad ways by changed social and economic factors. Today’s parents are re-defining family. Across the United States, and in countries such as England, France, China, Korea, and Canada, one-child households have become… Read More
Most parents agree that family dinner is important and should be a priority—even as we struggle to find time and too often end up eating dinner on the road or in front of a TV or tablet some nights. Research finds that families are less stressed, function better, that kids tend to eat better, and… Read More
PHOTO Credit: Kelly Sikkema/Unsplash The influences on mothers today are mostly ingrained from their own childhood memories and abetted by comments on social media, from friends, and other women in your child’s playgroups. The result for many women is a constant striving to be the perfect mother. This likely means bending to the opinions and… Read More
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