We sat in a mass of people blanketed over the sweeping lawn. Everyone staring up, ready to ooh and aww over the light show that was about to begin. Fourth of July fireworks never fail to disappoint. Then, without warning, we were under attack. People all around us started screaming and running. My partner and I scanned the crowd in …
Dear Attachment Parent: How do I get my kid to stay in bed?
Dear Attachment Parent: My toddler just outgrew his crib. How do I get him to stay in his room if we get a toddler bed? Being separated from your caregivers and protectors before you are old enough to fend for yourself is scary to most young children. For most of human existence, it would have been a very dangerous thing. …
Is Your Child a Perfectionist?
A perfectionist. “A person that refuses to accept any standard short of perfection.” Does this sound like your child? Or you? Perfectionism seems to be an applauded trait. Of course, employers and schools would like their people to take particular care with their work and always turn it in without any errors. But there is a dark side to this. Fear. …
When Kids Ask The Tough Questions
I was in 5th grade. I went to the movie theater with my mom. We watched Step Mom with Susan Sarandon. I don’t remember much of the movie except that she died from cancer. I remember leaving the theater in tears. “Mom, are you going to die? I don’t want you to die!” I was in 6th grade. The news …
I’m Terrified of Bringing Home a Sibling
“What if big brother hates the baby?” “Should we transition sister to her own bed before baby comes?” “Is it a good idea to wean brother before baby arrives?” “I’m so nervous to leave sister to go to the hospital.” “What if he cries?” “What if she cries?” “WHAT IF THEY BOTH CRY AT THE SAME TIME?!”
Bare It All
Today, I would like to introduce Suzanne Tucker, the mastermind behind Generation Mindful. When my son was just seven months old, I felt a bit lost. I didn’t parent the way others I knew did; advice from well-meaning friends just didn’t sit right with me. I was looking for a true, authentic connection with people that understood my choices, and …
Surrender
Worrying about our children. About the future. About their overall well being. About how to be what they need. The list goes on. I’ve noticed I lose the ability to focus on the present moment and maintain my sense of calm when I’m plagued with fears and worries. Future worries for your child, especially if they are highly sensitive and …
You Are Enough
When you haven’t been able to get groceries, and settled for cereal for dinner. Remember, you are enough. When laundry is piled high, you haven’t showered in days, and you feel like you are drowning in a to do list. Remember, you are enough. When your child is struggling and yells at you to “go away.” Remember, you are enough. …
Anxiety in Children
There’s nothing worse than when our children are hurt or suffering. It’s inevitable they will experience pain, grief and disappointment. It goes to a whole new level of “hard” when our kids suffer from heightened anxiety. It’s distressing and, at times, heartbreaking for both parents and children. It is essential that our parenting tool box so to speak is well …
