Parenting Now Blog

Life changes significantly when we have children, and it's not uncommon for parents (especially those with newborns and infants) to feel social isolation. Between feedings, swaddling, and diaper changes to the busy toddler years of potty training, tower building, and imaginative play, weeks to months can fly by without us parents interacting with another adult. ...

Parenting Now has named United Way of Lane County's Noreen J. Dunnells as its 2023 Minalee Saks Champion of Children. Noreen will be honored at Parenting Now's A Night of Hope Auction & Gala on March 3. This honor is given to community members who go above and beyond to enrich the lives of children ...

Humans are wired for connection, particularly during times of stress or change. Becoming a parent is enough to rock even the most well-prepared boat. New parents are learning right alongside their babies, discovering new things about themselves as they get to know this little person. For many of us, the reality of the first year ...

As the chill in the air settles in for the winter and we look for ways to stay warm and cozy at home, here are some fun craft ideas to get into the spirit of the winter season. Paper Bag Snowpal Crafts What you need: White paper bag White cardstock Colored cardstock (black, red, green, ...

  With the holidays in full swing, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of it all. This is a special time of year that's not just about the lights and sounds of the holidays. It's also a time of year to show and tell your children why you are so thankful ...

  Fears are very common in children and are a part of growing up. Children can have fears that are mild to extreme at different ages and as they learn to cope with new and different experiences. Children can learn to overcome their fears with practice by talking through the fear with a trusted adult. ...

Parents are their child's first and most important teachers, and wonderful learning can take place as you play together. You don't need expensive toys to engage with your child. All you need are some household items, and a little imagination. Some of the best play comes in the form of "messy" play. Messy play involves ...

Playing a sport gives your school age child an opportunity to develop physically through exercise. It also helps your child make new friends, and learn about teamwork, responsibility, and hard work. Sports are a great way to have your child try something new! If your child is new to trying sports or has expressed interest ...

In our Make Parenting A Pleasure parenting groups, we use the analogy of "filling your cup with self-care." If your cup is empty, you will have little to give to others. But when your cup is full, you are more likely to parent in ways that fit with what you want for your child. The ...

From pumpkin patches to hayrides, local farms offer a variety of fun things to do with your kids. That's why it's a fun idea to visit different farms and see what your family enjoys the most-and each farm will have different experiences to share with your family!  During the month of October, many farms have ...

Have you noticed your toddler eyeing your plate at mealtimes or showing signs that they want to feed themselves? If so, they may be ready to eat what the rest of the family eats, as well as use a spoon, and sit at the table with others. Every child is different, but typically around 12-months ...

There is no rulebook when it comes to being the perfect parent. In fact, there is no such thing as a perfect parent. Every family has their own traditions, values, customs, and routines. There isn't one "right way" to raise your child. You get to decide the values, skills, and behaviors you want to encourage ...