As your preteen begins to explore her freedom and social life, family time may not be as important or appealing to her as it used to be when she was younger. But just because your preteen is growing up doesn't mean you have to sacrifice time with her. "Take the time to get to know your preteen, find out her likes and dislikes and listen to her," says Erica Ives, California-based family therapist. By tuning into her interests, you may soon find she actually wants to spend time with her loved ones and is willing to dive into family activities.
Category: Sample Work
Gardening for Kids
If your children cringe at the sight of peas on the dinner table, a family garden may be the solution to get them excited about fruits and veggies. “Gardening helps parents and children spend time together outdoors, take pride in growing their own food, learn about our ecosystem and connect to each other and to others who have lived on the land before us,” says Susan Lipman, California-based gardening expert with the Children & Nature Network and author of “Fed Up With Frenzy.”
Fresh Ideas for Kids’ Lunches
If it seems like day after day you're making the same old PB & J sandwiches for your little ones, it might be time to freshen up lunchtime with something new and innovative. A healthy lunch can make a difference in your child's energy level and academic achievement, according to Stephanie Cundith, Kansas-based registered dietitian. "Access to better nutrition, coupled with increased opportunities for physical activity, may help students reach their potential throughout the school year," she says.
10 Easy Things to Keep Clean
While you may claim your home is "lived in" to excuse the clutter and messy countertops, keeping your home clean with simple, daily remedies will eliminate the need for those excuses. From countertops and floors to showers and entryways, your home can radiate a clean shine and aroma at all times with a few quick fixes. Get the entire family involved in your daily cleaning routine and then sit back and admire your bacteria-free living space.
20 Minutes a Day: How to Squeeze in Daily Fitness
If the thought of squeezing in long workouts at the gym while balancing family life and work stresses you out, take a breather -- with some creative approaches, you can squeeze in 20 minutes a day while running a household. "Fitness isn't limited to just the four walls of a gym," says Jessica Matthews, exercise physiologist for the American Council on Exercise. "For busy parents, there are many creative ways to add more physical activity to your day."
Tools to Teach Teen Compassion & Empathy
As a parent, you want to see your child act with compassion and show empathy to others. They may need a bit of a push and some guidance, though, to learn how to show others these qualities. Teaching compassion and empathy to children can start when children are very young, according to Denver-based psychologist and author of “Peaceful Parenting,” Nancy Buck. However, if you haven't discussed these ideas and values with your children until the teen years, it's not too late, Buck advises. While the sooner you start mentioning these qualities as a family value, the better; you can still give your teen the tools to be a compassionate and empathetic individual.
Parenting Teens to Be Successful
Your child's teenage years can be pleasant and memorable if you foster an environment that encourages successful, responsible, caring and independent behavior. “Parents who demonstrate their ability to meet their needs for safety, love, power, fun and freedom in respectful and responsible ways provide a model for teens to learn to do the same,” says Nancy Buck, Denver-based psychologist and author of “Peaceful Parenting” and “How to Be a Great Parent.”
How Parents Affect Teenage Personality Development
A harsh word or a moment of praise can make a significant difference in how a teenager’s personality develops. In fact, more than words, actions can affect the type of personality teens develop. Being aware of how parents can positively influence a child’s development is key when fostering healthy and happy teenagers.
What is Worth Fighting For With Your Preteen?
Parenting a preteen can be tricky. When choosing your battles, keep in mind that children today are faced with pressure from friends, school and family, all while trying to navigate raging hormones and changing bodies, says Raquel Lefebvre, Vermont-based licensed psychologist. "Keeping this in mind when dealing with your child will help you come from a place of empathy, where you can work with them rather than against them," she says.
Tips for Parents to Get Through the Puberty Years
The puberty years can send parents and preteens on an emotional roller coaster ride. From wild mood swings and impatient moments to short fuses and temper tantrums, it’s likely the entire family will need to find ways to adjust and cope. How can you keep your sanity while also offering a supportive environment for your pubescent child? Education, communication and self-care should be a top priority for parents during this time.
Shannon Philpott-Sanders 