There was a time when I dreaded raising a middle-schooler—the eye-rolling, sarcasm and moodiness is like the “terrible twos,” but in a taller, more hormonal body. As a former elementary school teacher, I used to wonder why anyone would ever choose to become a middle school teacher, but now I understand. This is a special […]
Parenting
Posted inBend Nest
Saying Goodbye
Tips for overcoming separation anxiety in young children
For families everywhere, September means one thing: school. The long, lazy days of summer are over and it’s time to either start or return to the classroom. Yet, leaving the comfort and safety of home can be tough for some kids, especially little ones who are new to the experience. Separation anxiety in preschoolers is […]
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Welcoming New Baby
What to do and say to address sibling rivalry
Few things are more important to parents than having their kids get along well together. Nevertheless, it can be difficult for kids, especially toddlers, to accept new additions to the family. “Where they were once the center of your world, now they’re forced to share the spotlight,” says Sophie Bell of babycenter.com, a popular parenting […]
Posted inParenting
It Takes a Village
Supporting Children Through
Deep Loss
Recently, a young local family lost their father in a tragic mountain biking accident. I am writing this piece in honor of his family to provide resources for friends or families who are mourning. As parents, we often try to shield our children from the deeper sorrows in life. We do everything in our power […]
Posted inParenting
National Grandparent’s Day
Memory makers: 14 Traditions to start with your grandchildren
Grandparents are so much more than an occasional babysitter. They teach without the fanfare, and their wisdom is soaked up better than any lecture from a parent. If your children are lucky enough to live close to their grandparents, here are some great ideas the kids and grandparents can do together to help bridge the […]
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It’s a Magical World
The Power of Imaginary Play
While summer vacation conjures dreamy images of family time and no homework, all parents know that keeping kids entertained throughout the break is no easy task. Without the daily routine of school and extracurricular activities, it’s easy for children to complain of boredom. Furthermore, in this age of smartphones and digital devices, it’s even easier […]
Posted inParenting
Big Stuff
How to support your child’s gross motor skill development
Children are perpetually on the move! From their first wobbly steps as toddlers, kids are always growing and developing in exciting new ways. Parents can support this healthy gross motor development by being intentional about which toys they bring into the home based on age and developmental stage. Child development experts agree that strong and […]
Posted inParenting
Have Yourself a Merry Little Toddler
Four tips to limit meltdowns
If jam-packed stores and the holiday hustle bring out your inner Grinch, imagine how your toddler will feel. Your agitation is sure to trickle down to your child. She may already be tired out from coping with schedule changes and new experiences—not to mention being expected to smile for photos, graciously open gifts on demand […]
Posted inBend Nest
Sleepovers and Sleep Unders
A parent’s guide
Autumn brings renewed excitement as children head to school and connect with friends new and old. Social opportunities abound and inevitably, parents are called upon to gate-keep and review their child’s readiness for independence. One of the biggest questions on parents’ minds these days are sleepovers – when is a child ready to sleep away […]
Posted inBend Nest
Time to Tidy!
Spring is on its way and that means it’s time to tidy your house before the summer’s madness and mayhem arrive. If you are dreading the task of clearing the closets and wiping the dirt from the walls, try reframing your mindset. Instead of looking at spring cleaning as an overwhelming chore, think of it […]