You probably hear yourself saying “no” countless times a day. But sometimes a “yes” may be the best course of action. In fact, indulging your child once in a while can show her the value of accomplishments. “A treat on a whim can be fun [and] invite spontaneity and surprise in your lives,” said Erica Curtis, Santa Monica, California-based family therapist. “It lets your child know that it is OK to treat yourself once in a while.” While you should be selective, and opt for the “right” time to hand out a quick perk, here are some great reasons to indulge your kids.
Category: Feature Stories
Dealing With Childhood Obesity
When a child is dealing with obesity, it’s imperative that parents understand the emotional and physical challenges he faces regularly. “Speaking from experience, there are few things more painful than being an obese child or teen,” said Dee McCaffrey, organic chemist and author of “The Science of Skinny,” of Tempe, Arizona. “The feelings of unworthiness, isolation and low-self esteem weigh just as heavily on their hearts and minds as the excess pounds on their body.”
Rights of Foster Kids
he transitions and adjustments that children in foster care face can be challenging, both emotionally and mentally. From feelings of abandonment to fear of attachment, these children may not be able to cope with these life changes while also monitoring that their rights are enforced. This is where foster care advocates come in -- they "make sure that foster children are treated well, like members of the family," says Suzanne Strisower, social worker with 10 years of experience working with foster care in Oroville, California. The key is making sure advocates and foster children are aware of the rights of kids in foster care as stipulated in the Constitution and under federal and state laws.
Teaching Kids About Cleanliness
Germs are everywhere, especially when you're a kid. From picking up bugs on the playground and sharing cups with friends to holding hands and touching dirty sinks in public areas, it’s likely your little one or teen has been exposed to germs and bacteria. Teaching him about cleanliness is the first step in combating illness and infections caused by harmful germs. Make learning about proper hygiene fun and a priority by enforcing healthy habits at home.
Genetic Factors of Depression in Children
At times, the onset of depression in children is obvious. Your child may become withdrawn, irritable or even show a lack of interest in his favorite activities. Other times, signs of depression can be subtle, such as changes in appetite or sleeping habits. Depression is a serious illness that many researchers credit partially to family and genetic factors.
What Should I Be Teaching My Kid at 12 Months?
As your baby grows and begins to communicate actively with you, it’s natural to question the appropriateness of her development. Should she be forming words, walking, and showing a need for independence at this age? According to Lenora Gregory, managing director of the Nemours BrightStart early literacy program in Jacksonville, Florida, parents should always actively discuss each developmental stage with their pediatrician. Your pediatrician can point out concerns, encouragement and tips, but parents can also work to enhance a 12-month-old’s development with activities at home. Teaching your child basic skills will only further her physical, educational and emotional growth.
Raising the Stakes
Establishing routines is key to running a well-oiled household. But, how do you know when it’s time to change things up, offer your children more freedom and step up the responsibilities of each family member? “As children grow older, there are two possible pitfalls: letting them stay babies or trying to make them grow up too fast,” said Crystal Lutton, Arizona-based mom of five and author of “Grace-Based Living.” “Finding that balance of respecting them where they are is such an important thing.”
Helping My Daughter Deal With a First Crush
It’s likely you can name that first boy who you thought hung the moon. He had deep brown eyes or the latest hairstyle and stole your heart right away. Whether it was in fourth grade or junior high, the feelings of that crush were real and may have led you through an emotional roller coaster. If your daughter is starry-eyed for the first time, it’s important for parents to recognize her feelings without downplaying the crush. Help your daughter through this crucial moment in her life by discussing these affairs of the heart at her pace.
Boys’ Attachments to Dads in Child Development
When a father holds his son for the first time, a sense of pride and joy beams from his face. A young boy with an attachment to his dad often has the same look in his eyes. “The relationship a boy shares with his father is a constant in life – friendships with schoolmates, fraternity brothers and work colleagues will come and go, but the father-son relationship is one that lasts throughout life,” says Christina Steinorth, the author of “Cue Cards for Life: Gentle Reminders for Better Relationships” and a licensed psychotherapist in Santa Barbara, California, with a master's degree in marriage and family therapy. A boy’s attachment to his father directly affects his development through the years. From healthy attachments to the risks associated with over-attachment, know how to foster your son’s relationships and overall development.
How to be Independent From Parents
From day one, parents take on the role of nurturer for their children while teaching the importance of independence. As children grow up, though, it can be hard for parents to let them soar on their own, to a place where mom and dad may not be able to protect them. "Most parents who are enmeshed in their adult children's lives have good intentions, and they have a strong sense of wanting to be there or support their children," says Rachel Thomasian, a Los Angeles-based marriage and family therapist.
Shannon Philpott-Sanders 