The house feels different. Maybe it’s the silence where laughter used to echo down the hallways, or the way dinner portions suddenly seem too big for two. Your child has moved out, either to college, their own apartment, or perhaps across the country for a new job, and you’re left wondering: Who am I now …
It’s 2 AM. Your child has a fever; your boss needs that report by 9. Welcome to single parenting, where you’re not just juggling. You’re running the whole circus with no intermission. You’re in charge of every ring: childcare, work, bills, bedtime stories, broken faucets, and the steady stream of emotional support your kids need. …
Parenting a neurodivergent child, someone whose brain processes and experiences the world differently, such as with ADHD or autism, can be both significant and incredibly challenging. It often requires learning how to balance your child’s unique needs with your own boundaries and emotional well-being. Many caregivers pour so much energy into supporting their child that …
In the journey of parenting, we bring our whole selves—our hopes, values, and sometimes, our wounds. One of the less visible but deeply influential patterns that can shape our parenting is hypervigilance. It often appears quietly, but it can significantly impact both how we respond to our children and how they learn to feel safe …
Parenting is one of the most rewarding and challenging roles in life. It can bring deep connection, joy, and love—but for many, it also comes with fear, self-doubt, and old wounds from childhood. If you grew up in a home with intergenerational trauma, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), or emotionally unavailable caregivers, you might struggle with …
Co-parenting can feel like uncharted territory after a divorce or separation. It’s about working as a team with your ex-partner to provide your child with a stable, loving environment, even though your relationship has ended. While this process is challenging, prioritizing your child’s well-being is the key to their security. Effective co-parenting requires communication, consistency, …
Nightmares and sleep issues can be common for children and distressing for parents. Poor sleep affects a child’s mood and overall well-being, so addressing these concerns is essential. This guide provides tips on creating a calming sleep environment and supporting your child in overcoming nightmares and sleep difficulties. Create a Calm Bedtime Routine A predictable, …
Why Positive Affirmations Matter Children are constantly forming beliefs about themselves and the world around them. The way they think about themselves shapes their confidence, resilience, and overall well-being. Positive affirmations—simple, encouraging statements—help reinforce a child’s self-worth, promoting a strong mindset that supports growth and emotional health. At first, repeating phrases like “I am strong” …
Forgiveness is a crucial life skill that helps children develop empathy, compassion, and emotional resilience. It’s not about excusing hurtful behavior, but rather letting go of negative emotions and moving forward positively. Here are some strategies to help teach your children about forgiveness: Lead by Example Children learn best by observing adults. Model forgiveness in …
Divorce changes more than your relationship status. It changes the rhythm of daily life for everyone involved, especially your kids. Children often do not have the words to describe their feelings, so those emotions may show up as acting out at school, becoming unusually quiet, or clinging to you more than usual. Many kids do …
Social media is everywhere—it can feel like a rite of passage for kids. As a parent, it’s tough to navigate this digital world. On one hand, social media helps kids connect with friends, explore interests, and learn about the world. On the other, it opens the door to risks like cyberbullying, screen overuse, and unrealistic …
Social exclusion can be common for adolescents in middle and high school. Whether not being chosen for games or purposefully excluding kids in numerous situations, the consequences are extremely harmful. Salmivalli states, “Bullying can be direct, such as physical or verbal attacks, indirect (also referred to as relational bullying), such as social exclusion and rumor-spreading, …