Published December 2012: Mom.Me 8 Signs of Depression in Your Teen Learn how to recognize the signals that your adolescent needs help Article Excerpt: Adolescence is a difficult and critical stage in human development. But when your teen exhibits signs beyond typical behavior, it may be time for concern. "Often, teens become depressed when there is no permission within their family to directly express powerful feelings," says Dr. Fran Walfish, psychotherapist and author of "The Self-Aware Parent." Recognizing the signs and opening the lines of communication can help your teen cope. Read the Rest of the Story Here – Shannon Philpott Share
Category: Feature Stories
Tips on Raising an Only Child
Published December 2012: Mom.Me Tips on Raising an Only Child Debunk the myths and make parenting an 'only' more rewarding Article Excerpt: Raising an only child is rewarding, as well as challenging, for the entire family. "Perhaps the greatest fear parents of only children have is that they'll raise entitled, spoiled and selfish children," says Dr. Paul Hokemeyer, New York-based psychotherapist. Instead of fretting over the challenges, embrace this unique parenting opportunity. "The most important thing a parent can give a child is the felt experience of being unconditionally loved," says Hokemeyer. Read the Rest of the Story Here – Shannon Philpott
Mama’s Boys: Doing things together enhances the mother-son bond
Published September 2012: Mom.Me Mama's Boys Doing Things Together Enhances the Mother-Son Bond Article Excerpt: Ann Morgan James believes in turning minutes into moments with her 13-year-old son. “It is just Jack and me,” says James, “so we get to spend a lot of quality time together.” In addition to running a business together that educates kids about financial literacy, the two strengthen their mother-son bond with fun activities. And so can you. From indoor playtime to outdoor adventures, seek out the fun with your son through bonding activities perfect for both of you.
Making Your Apartment a Home
Moving into a new apartment can be an adventure, but it can also feel limiting, as most leases bar any big design changes. Even though you don't own the property and can’t make drastic renovations, that doesn’t mean you can’t make it feel like home -- and you don't need drills, bits and hammers in order to make it happen.
When Grown Kids Return to the Nest …
After your children leave home, it’s likely that you’ve packed up the trophies and posters on the wall and converted their bedrooms into an office, sewing room or even a guest bedroom. When an adult child returns to live with you, a struggle for space and comfort might show up, too. A few space-saving techniques that won’t involve an emotional battle or pricey home remodel can help smooth the transition for all.
The Christmas Balancing Act
Even though Christmas cards and family portraits portray an image of a season of joy, the holidays often lead many on an emotional roller coaster ride that can easily run off course. From the hustle and bustle of shopping to preparations for family get-togethers, the spirit of the season can dwindle without the opportunity to recoup.
Classy Christmas Dining Decor
When it comes to Christmas gatherings, the tree may be the focus of the room, but the food is the center of the action. The table is where friends and families come together to celebrate the festivities of the season.
Happy Parents = Happy Kids
Too often, parents get caught in a constant whirl of kid-friendly activities, scheduling mishaps and drive-through dinners to meet the needs of their family. A 4 a.m. feeding or daily carpool can drain even the most energetic mom or dad. Between your daughter’s dance lessons, your son’s soccer practice and hours of homework and housework to wade through, your hectic schedule may lead to exhaustion and even resentment as you are consumed with your ever-changing role as a parent.
How to Have a Nightmare-Free Halloween
Whether it’s ghosts and goblins terrorizing your 3-year old or remnants of a mask-wearing movie slasher haunting your 6-year old, Halloween can mystify even the most well-adjusted child. The confusion gets even worse when scary villain costumes prance around ghostly yard ornaments -- yet lurking behind each neighborhood door are candy and a friendly greeting.
Why Walking is Enough
In 2008, Pam Mumper could barely walk up a flight of stairs, struggled to fit in a stadium seat and weighed in at 260 pounds. Three-and-a-half years later and 75 pounds lighter, she's able to walk four miles consecutively, trek up flights of stairs with ease and share a stadium seat with her daughter.
Shannon Philpott-Sanders 