It’s a hard habit to break, but it can be done. We’re talking about the dreaded thumbsucking. Parents – take heart. Eventually, the time is going to come, probably just not soon enough. Research shows that 30 percent of preschool children still suck their thumbs, although most outgrow it by…
The trappings of modern American culture-TiVo/high-speed Internet/texting–make it a special challenge for families to stay fit and active. Unless you and the kids walk or bike to work or school, chances are good that you have trouble squeezing in as much daily physical activity as your family needs. Even when…
While it’s true that you can’t do everything for your child, there’s no reason you can’t guide him down the right path, especially when it comes to making friends. Bonding with others can be a new experience for younger children. Of course, you can lead by example, but there are…
Much has been said about the health benefits of soy. Soy is a complete protein — the only non-animal product to boast that claim — and it benefits cholesterol, lowering levels of LDL, the “bad” cholesterol, and raising HDL, or “good” cholesterol. Its high calcium levels contribute to bone health,…
As parents, we do our best to keep our children healthy and safe. We buckle up their seatbelts, tell them to wash their hands before dinner, and to eat their fruits and vegetables. Yet, childhood poisonings occur every day across the globe. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, one hundred children…
Whether it’s an April shower, a sick day or just a quiet day indoors, things can get boring pretty fast. If you don’t want your kids to veg out in front of the TV for hours, then arts and crafts can provide a great diversion. But don’t run to the…
When it comes to our children’s happiness, less is more. That’s the surprising perspective of one Chicago psychologist concerned about the rising rates of youth depression and anxiety. “Millions of well-intentioned parents have made life harder for their children by shielding the kids from every kind of unhappiness,” according to…
As kids begin school, the subject of having friends sleep over will rear its head. One of the nice things about having a sleepover instead of traditional birthday party is that you can supervise all the activities in your home, plus you tend not to have to rent expensive spaces,…
If the crud hasn’t hit your house this season yet, then it probably will soon. And when it does, be prepared. You can end the misery of colds and flu faster – or at least make them more tolerable – by taking a few precautions. Of course, getting a flu…
Once your child begins walking, he will become more and more independent. Toddlers and preschoolers want to try to do a number of things on their own and parents have a tremendous opportunity to instill good, healthy habits as they teach self-care skills during this stage of development. Your child…