A Trick of the September Light
The tears are nothing new, as much a part of me as my freckles are now, but the propensity for them is always greater in September.
Why You Might Consider Having a Doula in Your Corner
Doulas can offer more than just emotional support and can help new mothers have control over what happens to them in childbirth.
The Thing You Can Do From Day One to Shape Your Baby's Brain
If talking to our children can literally "shape their brains" and give them a greater start in life, how can we help?
5 Reasons You're Spending too Much on Groceries and How to Fix it
There are ways to slash that grocery bill even if you don’t have time to cook from scratch every night or spend hours collecting coupons.
A Couple’s Guide to Complaining
Effective complaining enables spouses to engage in conflict and achieve resolutions that criticism puts out of reach.
Is 20 the New 15? Why Today's Teens Are Lacking Socially
Teens today are less inclined than their teen predecessors were to take on adult responsibilities. One suspected cause? Cell phones and social media.
The Terrible Tale of the Best Gift My Husband Ever Gave Me
Forget the rule of thumb established by florists, jewelers, and Hallmark since time immemorial, that household appliances do not make romantic gifts.
Of course, there are reams written about the ubiquitous syndrome of “mom guilt.” But what about dads? Are they immune?
What It Really Means To Love Like A Mother
Mothering is so much bigger than grocery lists and school projects. Mothering happens when the child in front of you needs deep and unconditional love.
It's Easy to Ask Why I Didn't Leave the First Time
I said it only takes one time for him to lay his hands on you for you to know he is abusive. Until it actually happened to me.
How Nonverbal Cues Enhance Communication With Your Kids
Evidence suggests that nonverbal communication has a great impact on kids’ development.
6 Kids Books for Families With Food Allergies
As the mom of a kid with food allergies, I know how stressful a food allergy diagnosis can be. These books can make it easier, though.
Does Giving Your 10-Year-Old a Cell Phone Increase the Risk of Bullying?
In a recent study, kids who owned a cell phone were significantly more likely to be a victim of cyberbullying, especially in third and fourth grade.
We Know Remarkably Little About The "Right" Bedtime
Don't struggle with bedtime. Read up on what's known about sleep, what's unknown, and what's negotiable.
Back to School: The Borderlands of Motherhood
This time of year, many of us find ourselves in a brief but trying part of these borderlands, the back-to-school weeks.
Why I Decided to Replace the Batteries
What does it say about us as a culture when we can treat so many things as disposable and temporary?
11 Tips for Conquering Life With Kids When Being Pulled in a Dozen Directions
Two adults, two jobs, two kids, two schools that close often and at random, rarely-overlapping intervals. How can you make it all work?
7 Surprising Impacts of the U.S. Substance Use Disorder Crisis
An estimated 21.5 million Americans over age 12 suffer from a substance use disorder. But the impact of this crisis reaches far beyond.
Should Cursive Go the Way of the Abacus?
Incorporating cursive into the curriculum had been on the decline. But is that in the best interest of our kids?
Are the Benefits the Full-Day Kindergarten Model Enough to Warrant Such a Long Day?
Today, academics are at the front line in the school-age battle, so districts are lengthening the day for kindergartners.
Why My Thumbsucker Can Continue at her Leisure
My daughter still sucks her thumb, and, yes, we are well aware she’s way too old to be doing so.
Teaching Our Kids to Embrace the Lessons of Envy
Sitting with that envy and letting it be your teacher may be a good idea for all of us, including our kids.
The Sport That Leads to More Concussions Than Boys' Football
Recent research reminds parents that they might be overlooking the dangers of concussions in sports besides football.
New Research Suggests Treating Anxiety Doesn't Have to Take a Backseat During Pregnancy
A new study about the safety of benzodiazepines during pregnancy might give mothers some peace of mind about treating anxiety during pregnancy.