A blog that makes child development approachable.
Sneak peek: We hear so much about what “good parenting” means. These tidbits usually focus on what we should be doing more of (more structure, more guidance, more rules). But what if some aspect of good parenting entails doing less? If you’ve been reading this blog for a while, you know that I’m a big […]
Sneak peek: Summer activities for kids don’t have to involve a lot of camps or scheduled outings. Simple, classic ideas for summer fun that kids still love The countdown to summer is on! In our area, school is already out. For most people around the country, school will end sometime in the next few weeks. […]
Sneak peek: We all know that children (and teens) have periods of rapid growth. But when can we expect these growth spurts? Let’s take a look at common growth spurt ages and how they can impact your child’s behavior. I read quite a bit, especially mystery novels or anything that has an unexpected twist. Maybe […]
Sneak peek: Toddler whining (or even among older kids) is one of those universal parenting challenges that parents lament. Ideas for understanding whining in toddlers and how to cope. When your child was an infant, their cries would, no doubt, spur you to act like nothing else. For a parent, the sound of their baby […]
Sneak peek: We hear a lot about executive functioning in early childhood in parenting and education circles these days. What are they and how can we help our children develop them? My five-year-old just learned how to play the card game, Uno. When I first brought it home, he didn’t want to play it because, […]
Sneak peek: These wonderful books for new moms offer insight into motherhood and infant development. Ease the transition to motherhood by reading these books to prepare your mind and emotions. Becoming a mother is perhaps one of the most transformational life experiences a person can go through. Motherhood influences almost every aspect of life–emotional, physical, […]
Sneak peek: To connect with kids seems like an easy task but in reality, it can be challenging. A few helpful ideas on why it’s worth our time to focus on connection. Do you know that feeling you get when you feel really emotionally connected with someone? Maybe it’s a friend, spouse, partner, or family […]
Sneak peek: Toys for emotional development don’t have to be boring. These ideas will keep kids growing, learning, and having fun. My four-year-old was at it again. He, his big brother and I were doing our usual Target run and they had convinced me to go to the toy aisle. What was I thinking? The […]
Sneak peek: Are you trying to focus your kids more on kindness this holiday season? This collection of kindness advent calendar ideas will set you on the right track. I’ve always loved advent calendars. Something about the idea of tiny boxes, bags or drawers that open up a surprise each morning just takes me back […]
Sneak peek: The development of social skills and perspective taking in kids is one of those milestones that often gets overlooked. By understanding this hidden part of brain development, we have insight into a crucial part of the beginnings of empathy. As parents, I think one of our main goals is to help our children […]
Sneak peek: Why do traditional toys still matter in an age of high-tech and electronic entertainment for kids? Research helps us see the developmental benefits of traditional baby toys. Before you had your first child, you probably swore to yourself that you wouldn’t be one of those families who allow toys to take over your […]
