Parenting Tips


Young boy with autism holding toy train

Does My Child Have Autism? Mom Advice on How to Find Out

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 […]


Principles for SFUSD School Assignment, Part II

I’m writing as a happy parent in SFUSD who has counseled numerous families over the years during the assignment process. For a moment, as school settles in, posting some lessons learned as a parent advocate. While roughly 80% of families receive a choice on their list, the remaining 20% quickly enter a painful process of […]


School and Medical Supplies

Back to School Tips for Children with Chronic Illness

Preparing a child or teen with chronic illness or medical complexities for back to school poses a unique level of anxiety and challenges. Worrying about how the school year will go for their health, whether the teachers and school will accommodate their needs, and if they will enjoy a satisfying social outlet like other children. I […]


Principles for SFUSD School Assignment, Part I 1

The weeks leading up to school assignments are challenging for many, especially those of us in San Francisco, where our public school assignments go through a lottery of sorts. Given recent events, including delayed communication of school assignments to both parents and schools and changes to the process for twins (and perhaps other changes), I’d […]


Helping Your Shy or Special Needs Child Enjoy Holiday Family Time

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 […]


Weekday Parenting Alone Whether Single Parent or Spouse Traveling 1

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 […]


Strategies for Your Child’s Hospital Stay 1

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. […]