Some people tend to give others the benefit of the doubt, while other people tend to assign blame and assume bad intent. Which style has more positive relationships and overall happiness?
Category Archives: Parenting
Pandemic Parenting Daily Checklist
We are in week five of social distancing and home quarantine due to the COVID 19 pandemic. My family has fallen into a regular routine, and each day seems to blend with the next. I’ve noticed a few things that help to make our days more positive…
“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness”
Have you ever noticed that our darkest thoughts happen about 3 am? Last night, my mind swirled with anxious thoughts triggered by the uncertainty in the world right now. I tried all sorts of mindfulness and relaxation tricks to clear my head and get to sleep. Nothing worked. Eventually, I gave up and read a book.
Six Tips to Create Family Routines and Calm in Uncertain Times
Daily routines and structure help kids feel calm and safe. But when schools are closed, your job is in flux and fear is widespread, how can parents create structure at home? In these uncertain times, maintaining routines, family connection and calm is more important than ever…
The Power of Appreciation (The Surprising Effect of My Valentine’s Texts)
This year, I decided to do something different for Valentine’s Day. Instead of the usual box of chocolates or small gifts for my daughters (ages 11 and 13) and husband, I sent them each a daily text for the two weeks leading up to February 14…
The Powerful Health Benefits of a Hug
Have you given or received a hug today?
In addition to feeling good, hugs provide a surprising list of health benefits,
The Power of Our Words (and The Ugly Truth About Harsh Words)
Words have the power to help or hurt, build up or tear down, and perpetuate gossip or stop it. This article shares the ugly truth behind harsh words.
Parenting Tips: Instead of Fixing Things for Your Kids or Giving Advice…
Do you ever offer your kids unsolicited advice or jump right in to help them solve their problems? Yeah, me too. Breaking the habit of trying to fix things for your kid is hard, but important…
Five Ways to Connect With Tweens and Teens
Despite their increased desire for independence and privacy, tweens and teens need their parents support as much as ever. But how can parents stay connected between all of the eye rolls, closed doors and one word answers?
Four Surprising Things About Compassion
I’ve been inspired lately to learn about compassion. Not just compassion for our “tribe,” which comes pretty naturally, but for those not in our tribe. It’s not easy to find compassion for people that we don’t like, that we don’t agree with or that behave in difficult ways.