Have you ever stopped to wonder why we make New Year’s resolutions? It turns out that the tradition dates back all the way to the Babylonians, some 4,000 years ago. Of course, they weren’t making resolutions to eat healthier, hit the gym more, or spend less on frivolous coffee drinks. Instead, they were making promises […]
Practicing Gratitude: What Are You Thankful For?
At Camilla’s 6-year birthday party she was showered with gifts from friends and family. Her parents were overwhelmed with gratitude for the generosity that was shown to their daughter. But when the family arrived home after the party, Camilla became upset, crossing her arms and pouting because “she didn’t get the gift she really wanted.” Instead of […]
Friendships Formed In Group Stayed Stitched Together
To celebrate Parenting Now!’s (formerly known as Birth To Three) recent 40th anniversary, Sue Fleming—along Colleen Biggs, Mardell Eastburn, Sandi Sanders, Nancy Bischof, and Jean Severns—donated 40 handmade baby quilts to Parenting Now!. It’s a tradition the group—made up of many former Birth To Three members—started 15 years ago as a way to stay connected […]
Make Time For Everyday Learning Opportunities
Toddlers and young children are constantly asking questions about their world: “Why is the sky blue?”, “Why do we have feet?” As a parent, it can be hard to keep up with their curiosity! But the truth is, you are likely teaching your child more than you even realize through your everyday interactions. From building […]
Encouraging Independent Play
Preschoolers and their parents lead busy lives. There are pretend cakes to bake; dolls and stuffies with “boo boos” that need mending; and grocery shopping to do for the play kitchen. As fun as these games are for kids, there are very real tasks that all parents need to get done during the day—and it’s […]
Avoiding After-School Meltdowns
Karen loves picking up her daughter, Lupa, from preschool. Lupa greets her with a big hug and shows her mom the art she made at school. But when they get home, Lupa goes into meltdown mode, becoming irritable and easily frustrated by everyday things that on a non-school day wouldn’t upset her. Lupa’s mom wonders […]
Let’s Eat! Tips for Stress-Free Mealtimes as a Family
As a fresh school year approaches, many families are gearing up for busy days ahead. With hectic mornings and long days at school and work—coupled with homework, afternoon activities, and social engagements—it’s no wonder that many families struggle to find time to simply connect and focus on one another. Knowing that you can count on […]
In The Moment: Being a More Present Parent
Our children are connected and attached to us! Sometimes that attachment is overwhelming and it seems like they just want our attention all the time. Whether it’s an infant’s cry, your older son endlessly talking about Minecraft, or your toddler needing extra snuggles at the end of a long day, it’s built into their DNA—and […]
Friends And Foes: Navigating Sibling Relationships
Friends And Foes: Navigating Sibling Relationships When baby number 2 was still in the womb, you may have daydreamed about what your children’s relationship would look like: “Will my oldest help get diapers for his baby brother?” Or “Will my youngest daughter dance like her older sister? Maybe they will perform in recitals together!” Flash […]
Groups Help Form Foundations For Parents
Groups Help Form Foundations For Parents I became a father for the first time in July 2008, just five months after losing my own father. The joy of becoming a father, the daunting responsibility of raising a child, and the grief of losing my own father had me on quite the emotional rollercoaster. I […]