Depression in children can manifest differently than in adults, making it sometimes hard to recognize. Symptoms might include persistent sadness, irritability, withdrawal from previously enjoyed activities, changes in appetite or sleep, vocal outbursts, or even physical complaints such as stomachaches and headaches. Parents must acknowledge these signs early and understand that depression is not just a phase or a matter of willpower; it's a real, clinical condition that requires empathy, understanding, and professional support when severe.

It’s rather apparent that you shouldn’t do your child's homework for them, right? The question of how much parental involvement is beneficial is nuanced. It touches on developing independence, problem-solving skills, and cultivating a healthy parent-child relationship. Drawing from clinical experience and academic research, this article aims to guide parents through the complexities of assisting with homework, outlining the pros and cons, and ultimately finding a balance.

The parenting journey is notably enriched with challenges, achievements, and constant learning. For divorced parents, this journey takes on additional complexity. Dissolving a marital relationship does not end the shared responsibility of raising a child. In this context, compromise emerges not just as a valuable skill but as a necessary foundation for the co-parenting relationship moving forward. Looking at circumstances from the other parent's point of view, treating them with respect as a co-parent, and letting go of the reasons you divorced are gifts you will give your child, not your ex.

Lace up your sneakers and take a walk with me to discuss a topic as divisive as pineapple on pizza: competitive sports for our little ones. Should you, or shouldn't you? It's not just about keeping them busy after school but shaping their young lives and emotional well-being. 

Sharing is a fundamental skill crucial to a child's social development and future interactions. However, sharing is often misunderstood and confused with a child’s ability to compromise. In this article, I'll explore the various aspects of sharing, provide analogies to help understand its importance and discuss the benefits and compromises associated with ownership.

Each child is unique; what works for one family might not work for another. It's all about finding what suits your family's dynamics and your child's personality. So, in this article, I’ll tread lightly with simple everyday advice, a little stating the obvious, and some personal observations from my experience working with many only-child families over the years.

Oh, the joys and challenges of parenting, especially when your household feels more like a battlefield than a peaceful sanctuary because your kids can't seem to get along. It's a story as old as time, but that doesn't make it any easier when you're the one living it. Well, let's sit down and chat about how you can help your kids build a bridge over their troubled waters.

Traveling with young ones is an adventure with opportunities for fun, learning, and making memories. But it also comes with challenges—how do you keep them engaged, calm, and safe while helping them soak in the new experiences? Here are some simple tips from a fellow parent to make your travels smoother and enjoyable for everyone.

In today's fast-paced and consumer-driven society, the idea that more is better has permeated the sanctity of childhood play. A simpler approach to playtime, emphasizing quality over quantity, is available and will benefit your little one in the long term. This post opens the conversation about the multifaceted benefits of toys for children, identifies two timeless toys that promise years of enjoyment, and explores some common challenges.

One of our most important roles as parents is being our children's primary communicators and educators. The way we talk to them—from infancy through adolescence—lays the foundation for their emotional intelligence, self-esteem, and perception of the world around them. Understanding and implementing best communication practices can significantly impact your child's development. Here are my thoughts from working with children for over thirty-five years.

Many parents face the challenge of feeding picky eaters, whose underlying sensory processing issues often complicate meal times. Understanding these issues and adopting effective strategies can help parents successfully expand their children's eating palettes.

As children grow, they wander the complex social landscapes of childhood, adolescence, and even early Adulthood, often encountering the formidable force of peer pressure. Can parents help their young children through the varied terrains of social pressure, ensuring they emerge with confidence and integrity intact? They can, and here are some valuable tips.