As parents, you may have questioned why your child may sometimes exhibit new or different behaviors. It may be due to stress. Children can be affected adversely by what may seem to adults like “little” things such as holidays, a new home or car, a new sibling, a new daily routine, a new caregiver or […]
Like most adults, children are creatures of habit. Transitions from one activity to another can be difficult. Children who are asked to stop doing something they enjoy and to start a different activity may exhibit difficult behaviors. These behaviors can take the form of tantrums, avoidance, resistance, whining, or negotiation (“Can I have just 5 […]
This school year, arm your children with some important safety tips for surfing the web and posting on social media. Review this list with them so they may develop a solid understanding of what is acceptable to do online. This way, you can rest assured knowing that they are browsing the Internet safely and they will be […]
How should I reach out? What do I need to know about Parent/Teacher Conferences? Am I asking the right questions? We asked some of our teachers to share their best parent and teacher communication tips so you can build a strong bond with your kiddo’s teacher this school year! 1. If you have a concern, never hesitate […]
By Mia Wenjen of PragmaticMom and I Love Newton Two of my kids are starting new schools this year. We, as a family, are finally done with elementary school and my youngest will be starting middle school with vastly more kids than before. My middle daughter has finished middle school so her brother will have it to himself; […]
It’s incredibly rewarding to see how many milestones your child reaches throughout the school year. Fill out this chart to see concrete proof of just how much your kiddo learns and grows from the first day to the last! Click on the image to open a printable PDF version.
Has your summer flown by? They usually do. As the last few days of summer fade away and we all prepare for another school year, let’s get in some last-minute family togetherness. Here’s a list of ideas to get you started. So get out there, make some plans, and enjoy yourselves. Catch fireflies Go on […]
There are few things in a parent’s life more exasperating than when children ignore our instructions. Learning to follow directions is an important life skill and is vital for school success. And around 18 months, a toddler’s thinking skills begin to change dramatically. She understands a wider variety of words and can hold onto a […]
Conflict can be uncomfortable for young children, causing anxiety or fear. This is true for many adults as well. However, it is natural, and occurs on a daily basis. It is typical for young children to experience conflict over toys, space, relationships, and power. As a parent, you are the biggest influence in your child’s […]
A child’s growth flows as a continuous process, a gradual move from one stage of development to another. For example, one must walk before they can run. Physical development refers to a child’s ability to move, coordinate and control their body. This development can be broken up into two categories: gross motor skills and fine […]
Why is it so difficult for toddlers to share? To put it simply, their brains do not yet have the ability to comprehend the patience, compassion and planning that sharing requires. “Children under two often have difficulty sharing because they have not yet developed a sense of empathy,” says Bonnie Bonifield, education expert at Childtime. “They tend […]
As adults, we’re compelled to think about other people’s perspectives before we act or speak. If we don’t consider how our words and actions will make others feel, we may end up seeming impolite or even thoughtless. When you’re able to imagine a situation from someone else’s perspective, or “put yourself in their shoes,” you […]