Parenting Now Blog

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Noreen J. Dunnells Named 2023 Minalee Saks Champion of Children

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 ...

Community and Connection

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 ...

Winter Crafts Ideas

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, ...

Thankful Throughout the Year

  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 ...

Understanding Your Child’s Fears

  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. ...

Messy Play Ideas for November

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 ...

Encouraging Your Child to Play Sports

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 ...

Fill Your Child’s CUP With Special Time

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 ...

Farm Fun For the Family

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 ...

Enjoy Family Meals With Your Toddler

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 ...

Parenting Is Not One Size Fits All

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 ...

Fall-Themed Crafts for Toddlers

As the weather begins to cool for the season, and the leaves put on a dazzling display of colors for us, here are some crafts to get you and your child into the spirit of the fall season.  Leaf Wreath  Materials: Leaves from your neighborhood Glue Paper plate Ribbon First, you will need to collect ...
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