Moms Who Make a Difference
by Lesley Iwinski Back to school preparations and rituals can be daunting for children of all ages. What can parents do to make the transition smoother and easier? First, give yourself the compassion and understanding that you need. Fill your own cup so that you have enough to share with your family. The most important […]
by Lesley Iwinski In a culture where, ironically, we need to “schedule” unscheduled time, summer allows us to look at the way we and our children spend our time. Not too long ago, the “ideal summer” saw children jumping from one camp to the next, taking math or reading classes to “get a head start,” […]
People generally tend to enjoy and appreciate “new beginnings,” especially children. New year, new friend, new shoes…. fallen snow, waiting for footprints and angels like an artist’s blank canvas. Nowhere is the impact of a new beginning more powerful than after a mistake, a transgression or behavioral outburst. Think of a time when someone forgave […]
You’re re-telling one of your children’s favorite stories about something that happened when you were growing up. It’s one of your children’s favorites, and they have heard it dozens of times. You reach the end of your tale only to hear them say, “Tell it again!” Reminiscing and telling stories about your own childhood can […]
Recent research suggests that the secret to a successful and happy life is a person’s Emotional Intelligence. Employers prefer people who work well with others and have empathy to those who are merely smart.The best way to instill emotional intelligence in children is to give them unconditional love. We’ve all heard of unconditional love, but […]
Calm is a superpower. Activating it doesn’t involve gamma rays, being bitten by a radioactive spider or melding with an alien. Just begin with the intention of being calmer. Start small, with one thing, and build from there. Calm requires effort and planning, and the discipline to continue, even – and especially – when it […]
You need a gallon of milk. When is your child old enough to stay home alone while you run a quick errand? Go out for dinner? Staying home alone is an important milestone for every child, and for every parent. When your child is able to feel safe and confident alone, that can be empowering […]
We settled into our chairs at a local coffee shop, sipping coffee as we met for the first time. I had read Heather Amos’ book, “I’m Not OK,” and had a broader appreciation and insight into the painful and lonely reality many parents face when their children have special needs. I had questions for this […]
Children’s sports teams are popular. Soccer, baseball, football, basketball, lacrosse, cheerleading, gymnastics, track… the list goes on. When children are young, it is nice to offer them a chance to sample sports in a noncompetitive way. They may find a sport they really like or have a natural aptitude for. Children who enjoy team sports […]
