I will always remember sitting at the small table with my son’s kindergarten teacher in his classroom, knees knocking, heart beating, as she gently discussed the concerns she had about my son. She handled the moment so sensitively when she suggested I have him evaluated, but it is never easy to hear something could be […]
Whether it’s snow, sleet, rain, or a younger sibling’s nap time, there are times when weather or other challenges call for indoor play at home. Here are 11 ideas for fun activities for young children at home. Make a blanket fort with old sheets, blankets and pillows with stuffed animals Build the biggest block tower […]
Spending precious time with extended family during the holidays is filled with joy and traditions but by its nature can bring anxiety to children who are shy or have special needs. Starting with the customary hugs and kisses and obligatory, “look how much you’ve grown!!”, can bring unintended discomfort at the intensity of attention and sensory […]
Any time your child is sick in the hospital is beyond hard. But during holidays usually so full of happiness and family traditions, it is a true test of the heart. Add to the mix worrying about giving your other children and family members some semblance of a holiday leaves you feeling literally split in […]
I’m a single mom of two. My current childcare is preschool and elementary school, both with aftercare and rarely any help at home. My kids are not morning people, nor am I truthfully. To make this work, I had to become much more organized. Prepare everything the night before: Prepare the coffee maker so it […]
If parenting isn’t a snap on an average day, it can truly be a marathon when your child needs to be in the hospital. Whether a short one-time stay or a more serious, lengthy situation, here are pragmatic and coping tips to prepare for and help your child through a hospital stay based on my experiences. […]
My Child is Starting Kindergarten! Tips for Getting Ready. Your firstborn just graduated from preschool, or maybe is going directly into elementary school from home. During this exciting time, here are some tips that I wish I’d known. 1) The week before school, plan to stay in town. It’s important that your child is […]
I like to think of the start of a new year as a fresh slate and a great opportunity to reflect on what is most important to me. I have mixed feelings about New Year’s resolutions. I used to look to them as a chance to improve myself, but found my inevitable big resolutions to […]
I still remember asking my mom why Santa Claus didn’t visit our homes. I don’t remember her exact reply, but rather the thought of this cool man delivering presents to everyone but Jewish kids. SO unfair that the team of reindeer carrying the best toys would pass over the Jewish homes. This was NOT the […]
How often do you say, “Good Job!” Every time your child slides down the slide? Each time he does something new? Or whenever he does something you wanted him to? Our preschool director, Fern Eisenberg at Beth Sholom Family Preschool, frequently reminds us not to say, “Good Job!” Until I met her, I had no […]