At school, children learn the infamous “Stop, Drop and Roll” and the basics of stranger danger, but as parents, it’s important to teach general safety rules to children at home, too. “My advice to parents is to work hard on your communication with your child,” says Kim Estes, certified prevention educator and founder of Savvy Parents, Safe Kids, in Redmond, Washington. “Keep a consistent conversation going about your values around safety.” Make learning about safety a family affair with games, lists and open communication, so your children are prepared.
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Single Mom and Separation Anxiety With an Only Child
It’s common for your toddler to cling to your leg when you leave for work, or a kindergartner to miss mommy while at school. However, separation anxiety can be even more difficult for only children and children raised by a single mom, says Dr. Wendy Rice, a licensed psychologist in Tampa, Florida. “Separation anxiety is a common phase during child development, in part due to innate fears that the parent may disappear if out of the child’s immediate sight,” says Rice. “If fear that the parent will disappear when the child leaves their side dominates, insecurity takes over and separation becomes a frightening and frustrating experience for both parent and child.” As a single mom, it’s important to maintain a close relationship with your child while helping her cope with separation anxiety, using activities and strategies to help her gain independence when mom cannot be right by her side.
The Positives of Toddler Play
It's no secret that toddlers look forward to playdates, outdoor trips to the park and new toys to fill up the floor of their rooms. Beyond making your child grin from ear to ear, though, the positives of toddler play also contribute significantly to your child's development. "Playing is a child's job," says Nancy Buck, developmental psychologist with Peaceful Parenting in Denver, Colo. "On every level—physical, emotional, intellectual or social—a child is learning."
When to Indulge
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.
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.”
Shannon Philpott-Sanders 