It was a grueling game of one-on-one basketball. The ball swooshed into the basket once and then twice and even though the rebounds bounced on a driveway instead of a court, the sound of the crowd cheering and chanting could be heard. Except, it wasn’t a crowd. It was a 40-year old mom pretending thousands of fans were cheering her on as she gained points on her 14-year old son who for 30 minutes, gave her his time, his laughter, his competitive spirit and a rigorous workout.
Category: Newspaper Writing
The Parent SOS
From the time I was a child, I was taught to work hard. This work ethic that was ingrained in me from the start has given me many opportunities to excel at multiple jobs. I’m a go-getter, a type “A” organizer and a loyal employee. I learned this from my mom who tirelessly worked two or three jobs at a time to put food on the table and expected my sisters and me to work just as hard at school, around the house and at our part-time jobs as teenagers.
Top Kids Books for the Holidays
At a time of the year when the holidays bring magic to your child’s world, the gift of a special book can take them on a trip of magical fantasy. “Books stimulate a child’s sense of curiosity, creativity and imagination and validate their feelings,” said Dr. Donna Housman, founder of Beginnings School in Weston, Massachusetts, a suburb of Boston. Choose just the right book as a gift to stir your child’s imagination this holiday season.
Once a Parent, Always a Parent
Published November 2014: The Messenger - Faith: A Fresh Take Once a Parent, Always a Parent Once my children reached teenage status, I was entered into a whirlwind journey that I can clearly admit that I was not prepared for. It’s no secret that teenagers can be moody, more opinionated or even combative and know-it-all human… Continue reading Once a Parent, Always a Parent
Raising Informed Kids
Published November 2014: The Messenger - Faith: A Fresh Take Raising Informed Kids Although it may seem like as parents, we have it all together and have prepared our children for every situation, there are times when we realize that something has slipped through the cracks. I remember the shock I felt when my children told… Continue reading Raising Informed Kids
The Perfect Plan
Published October 2014: The Messenger - Faith: A Fresh Take The Perfect Plan On a daily basis, I catch myself repeating the word “perfect” over and over again. When a meeting or plan is finalized, I respond with “That’s perfect.” When my children leave in the morning with beds made and rooms ‘somewhat’ picked up, I… Continue reading The Perfect Plan
Tips for Babyproofing Your Kitchen and Bathrooms
As your baby becomes mobile through rolling, crawling or walking, it’s likely he will want to explore every inch of your home. The kitchen and bathroom especially pose dangers for your curious George. Secure your child’s health and security with simple babyproofing that will keep him from exploring unsafe areas of your home.
The Harsh Truth: Trusting the Right Words
Published October 2014: The Messenger - Faith: A Fresh Take The Harsh Truth: Trusting the Right Words The truth hurts. I’ve often thought that this popular phrase was overused and too much of a cliché, but the more I parent and teach students, the more I’ve realized that nothing is closer to the truth. As much… Continue reading The Harsh Truth: Trusting the Right Words
Tips for Creating a Baby Growth Chart
It’s no secret that children grow like weeds when you least expect it. If your little one is sprouting up the growth chart or steadily gaining height, you won’t want to miss these milestones. Create a baby growth chart at home to document not only height and weight, but also the precious, creative moments that are happening daily.
Creating a Morning Routine: New Mom 101
As a new mom, it can be overwhelming to juggle feedings and diaper changes for your infant with household responsibilities and family life. Don’t let the stress of your new responsibilities override the joy of cuddling and caring for your new baby. Instead, jump-start each morning with a structured routine that benefits both of you.
Shannon Philpott-Sanders 