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The Thoughtful Parent

A blog that makes child development approachable.

  • About Me
  • Social-Emotional Development
    • 7 Ways to Teach Your Child About Kindness
    • 4 Powerful Social-Emotional Lessons Kids are Learning During the Pandemic
  • Child Development Classics
    • A Parent’s Guide to Understanding the 4 Attachment Styles
    • Child Psychology Classics: The Mirror Test
  • Toddler Development
    • Research-Backed Real-Life Strategies to Discipline Toddlers without Yelling (even during a pandemic))
    • Research-Backed Ways to Thrive Through the Toddler Years

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Unbelievably Simple Summer Learning Activities that Kids Can’t Turn Down

Play-Based Learning · May 21, 2019

outdoor summer activities

{We all want to help our kids prevent the "summer slide" in learning, but summer learning activities don't have to be boring worksheets. A …

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Why Play is Still the Best Way to Spark Your Child’s Development

Play-Based Learning, Uncategorized · March 6, 2019

guided play and brain development

Sneak peek: The importance of play in child development can't be overstated. Research-backed benefits of play for children's …

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The Fallacy of Early Academics: What is Lost When We Push Too Hard

Play-Based Learning · May 31, 2011

preschool

Sneak peek: There are many misconceptions when it comes to understanding why preschool matters for young children. While pressures remain to …

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How to Give Your Child a 1980s Childhood {and it’s backed by research!}

Play-Based Learning · April 2, 2019

toddler speaks own language

Sneak peak: Many of us have fond memories of growing up in the 80s and want our kids to experience some of that freedom and exploration. A …

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Want to Promote Executive Functioning Skills in Your Kids? It’s Easier than You Think

Social-Emotional Development, Toddler Development · March 15, 2010

executive functioning skills

{We hear a lot about executive functioning skills in the parenting world. What are they and how can we help our children develop …

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Why Blocks Should Be on Your Child’s Holiday List {plus a NEW Way to Save Big on Legos}

Uncategorized · December 2, 2016

As you peruse through through all those ads and website showcasing toys for the holidays, you are probably overwhelmed. I know I am. …

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Why Guided Play is the Secret to Playtime with Your Kids

Play-Based Learning · February 28, 2017

play-based preschool

{How you can use guided play to maximize education and fun for you and your child} "Mom, I want a combine to play with like the one in …

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Resources That Will Change Your Parenting Game for the Better

Uncategorized · August 10, 2017

Here at our house, this is the last full week of summer! All you parents out there probably know that bittersweet feeling that comes along …

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Not Just Child’s Play

Education · February 26, 2009

We all know that children love to play, but have you ever considered that play may actually serve an important developmental function? More …

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As a mom of two young boys, I've seen first-hand how research-based child development information, combined with intuition, can guide you through your parenting journey. Although I have a Ph.D.in Human Development and Family Sciences, many of my real parenting discoveries have come through my experience. I believe parenting with confidence comes from knowledge; parenting with grace comes from insight. Join me on this parenting journey of learning and discovery

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