Parenting Now Blog

I have a question for all the fathers and father-figures out there: "When do you think fatherhood begins?" Some of you might say it's when you find out your partner is pregnant. Others say, it's when you first see that sonogram or hear Baby's heartbeat for the first time. Still, others say it really hits ...

Summer is just around the corner, which means sprinklers, water balloons, backyard swimming pools and other ways to beat the heat. It's important to remember that water accidents can happen quickly-even if the water your child is playing in is only a few inches deep, or your child knows how to swim. Just like it ...

During challenging times, we can all use additional support and resources to help us navigate tragedy-especially when it comes to helping our children process what they are hearing and seeing on the news, or from their peers at school. Below are some resources for yourself and your child. Books: What to Do When the News ...

It's not always easy to talk about "scary things" with children. It is important to remember that children of all ages look to their parents to make them feel safe. For this reason, we've compiled some tips from child development experts on how to best approach difficult topics. Talking to your children about their worries ...

As parents, self-care can feel like one more item on our never-ending to-do list. We can even beat ourselves up over it - or feel guilty when we do take time for ourselves. But self-care shouldn't be a cause of stress or worry. Rather, it should replenish your soul and make the challenges of parenting ...

If you are a new parent, you know the answer to the redundant question, "Are you stressed?" Parenthood can be incredibly joyful, but it is also demanding and stressful for every parent. The good news is there are ways to help you handle the very real stresses of parenting. New baby, new priorities Maybe you ...

At all stages of life, we have challenges and problems we must approach and solve. From the moment babies are born, they learn that when they feel hungry they must use vocal and physical cues to let their caregiver know-that's problem solving! When an infant sees a ball across the room that she wants, she ...

This edition's book recommendations from the Eugene Public Library focus on imagination and play. written by Deborah Underwood; illustrated by Cindy Derby. Illustrations and easy-to-read text reveal ways nature affects our everyday lives, such as providing food and clothing, and showing when to go to bed and when to get up. We all Play, written ...

Many of us have loosened our screen time rules during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you're looking to get your family's media usage back on track or start a new media plan for your family, you're in the right place. Now that the world is opening up, and more alternative activities are available for you and ...

Spring is a special time of year for new growth, warmer weather and adventures! Here are some fun springtime activities to do with your children. Cloud painting Take the afternoon with your child and go look at clouds. It's a great way for you to get out of the house and look at different cloud ...

Growing up involves learning many new and complex skills such as brushing teeth, getting dressed, cleaning up after yourself, managing school work, and strategies for problem solving. There are many ways you can support your child to learn and build these skills. Here are some ideas: Set a good example (all ages) Our children don't ...

Maybe you're feeling cooped up after spending rainy days indoors and two years' worth of pandemic-related closures. Maybe you're inspired by the bulbs blooming outside, new growth on shrubs and trees, or increased bird activity? Or perhaps your child is just bouncing off the walls and needs to move? Whatever the reason, it's a great ...