Big Kids

Discussing Depression & Anxiety

The National Alliance on Mental Illness found that one in 5 Americans are affected by mental health conditions. When you understand some of the misconceptions and how to appropriately communicate with someone who may be down or anxious, they will be less likely to feel the shame and fear that can often come along with […]

Promoting Tween Confidence Through Action

Experts say a significant drop in self-esteem happens between ages 9-12. Instilling confidence in kids during these pivotal years can start with action-oriented activities that promote family time and conversation. “Simple tasks like doing a good deed for others, learning something new or accomplishing a goal, goes a long way in boosting self-esteem for tweens,” […]

Help! My Child Stinks!

When your child nears the pre-teen years, it can seem like your sweet-smelling baby turns into a stinky, sweaty tween overnight, without warning. Kids as young as age 8 can start experiencing the changes in hormones associated with puberty. These hormone changes cause an increase in sweat production by the sweat glands. When bacteria on […]

Teaching Self-Regulation

Self-regulation is an important life skill for all ages to master. It actually is not a single skill but a group of skills. The ability to plan ahead, make thoughtful decisions, persistently work towards a future goal, and moderate emotions and behavior are all included in this group of skills. That is not to say […]

Being Your Kid’s Role Model

If you have already begun considering your goals for the next year, there is one that should be included near the top of your list – being a good role model for your kids. One of the most effective ways to teach your kids the traits you wish them to embrace is to model them […]

Improving Your Child’s Memory

Once kids reach elementary school age, the ability to process and retain information becomes an important skill. Your child’s school day is full of math fact tables, spelling words, science and social studies facts and grammar rules. Here are some techniques to help your child absorb all the information and recall it when needed. Put […]

Music Matters

Researchers at the University of Southern California Brain and Creativity Institute recently published results of a five-year study that links music appreciation and instruction to accelerated brain development in young children, especially in the auditory system of the brain that is also key in language and reading skills development. This finding builds upon previous studies […]

Crockpot Love Served by Ronald McDonald House

After a long day, have you ever wished you could come home to a hot, homemade meal ready to eat? Now add to your long day the stress of having a critically ill or injured child in the hospital. During these trying times, feeding yourself is often forgotten at your child’s bedside. The Ronald McDonald […]

Volunteering in the Chattahoochee Valley

Volunteering is an excellent way to teach your kids important life skills. In addition, volunteering during the holidays helps promote an ‘attitude of gratitude’ in your household and takes your child’s mind off their holiday wish list. Volunteering Is For the Whole Family It is not only those who you help that benefit when you […]

Do I want an Elf in My House?

Elves are appearing in homes all over America. Your child wakes up, rubs their tired eyes and is greeted by a mischievous elf who toilet papered their bedroom! Hilarious, right? Last holiday season I toiled with the idea of Scout the Elf for my then 2-year-old, but decided he wasn’t old enough. This year, he’s all […]