To adults, childhood can seem like a carefree time. But kids still experience stress. Things like school and their social life can sometimes create pressures that can feel overwhelming for kids. As a parent, you can't protect your kids from stress—but you can help them develop healthy ways to cope with stress and solve everyday [...]
Recent world events may have you feeling especially concerned about your family's safety. The biggest threats to safety, though, are very close to home. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), motor vehicle accidents, falls, accidental poisoning, drowning, and choking are the leading causes of unintentional death in the United States. Don't overlook some of [...]
You always have an eye on your children. And when they're not with you, your thoughts are with them. When your kids visit the mall, walk home from school or hang out with friends, you worry about strangers. You want to keep your children safe, yet not make them virtual prisoners in their own home. [...]
Keeping your family safe and sound can be as easy as following simple safety rules consistently. The following checklist from the National Safety Council can help you assess your family's adherence to essential safety precautions. If you say "false" after any of these statements, correct the safety issues they address. General safety No one in [...]
Computers and the Internet have become an important part of our lives and our children's lives. An estimated 77 million American children and teens are now online, according to the U.S. Justice Department. Youngsters spend time online messaging, chatting, searching, and surfing. Although most of these Internet experiences are likely positive, parents need to be [...]
You may have a profession at which you excel and a nice house in a good neighborhood. But it may be time for some serious reevaluation if you still wonder when the fun starts or what you'll be when you grow up. Success doesn't necessarily lead to fulfillment. Unless you take time to formulate your [...]
Some people handle tough jobs without breaking a sweat. Others seem to give up before they even get going. What's the difference between a can-do and a won't-try person? "It's usually a matter of bravery," says Paul Hauck, PhD, an Illinois psychologist and an advisory member of the National Association of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapists. "Can-do people [...]
Emotional overload Many single parents say they deal with a variety of emotional issues that you might describe as “extra baggage.” Some examples include: Self-pity Depression Guilt Anger Envy Fear Severe money problems Loneliness and isolation Frustration Exhaustion These issues present such a challenge because they undermine your daily functioning and emotional well-being. But they [...]
How to maintain communication Even though teens need to separate from their parents during adolescence, they also need to know that the safety net of home and family is always there for them. If the lines of communication are shut down, they are not yet capable of surviving emotionally; they need support and input. Let’s [...]
If you are a member of a step-family, you know how difficult it can be to integrate all of the new members and adjust to the new boundaries and rules. The following ideas may help you make a successful transition during this challenging process. Have patience. Establishing new families takes time. Just because you love [...]