I used to really love the holidays and everything they entailed: the decorating, the gifts, the food, the baking, helping others, volunteering at community functions, the shopping, and the parties. I also loved the planning. But by far, my favorite was the excitement that leads up those festive days. In fact, sometimes the planning AND anticipation…
The emails for Mother’s Day have already been hitting my inbox for a couple of weeks now. “Do this for your mom,” “Shower your mom with love,” and “Make this Mother’s Day Something to Remember.” It seems simple. It seems harmless and beautiful and sentimental and nothing short of wonderful. Who wouldn’t love the idea…
A few weeks ago, I shared a health scare I had this summer during one of my Sunday morning chats (if you’d like to join in, click here). I was deeply moved by the responses I received. I’m used to being the one who gives out support and love to others. It’s sometimes hard for…
How many phrases did your parents use to get you to shape up as a kid? “Would you like a spanking?” “I mean it!” “Don’t make me repeat myself!” “Knock it off!” “Go your room!” “You are cruising for a bruising.” Why parents say some of those things, I have no idea. What child has…
Today we’re zooming in on the second principle: how to help your child learn at home. In child development speak, we call this “having a positive learning environment.” And whether or not school is in session or it’s summer vacation- it’s always a good time for learning at home. Can you think back to a…
For the past two weeks, I’ve been sharing some ideas about parenting with you. Today, we’re going to zoom in a bit by focusing on the first of five principles: creating a safe, interesting environment. Now, if you’re reading this, you’ve probably got the safety basics down pat. No, I’m not going to tell you…