Let’s be honest: Most of us don’t waltz into parenthood knowing what we’re doing. We seek guidance from family, peers, and pediatricians, but even then, parenting is still often a learn-as-you-go process, which is why we make mistakes and fall into parenting traps. The good news is that when it comes to parenting there is [...]
Having children brings so much enjoyment and fulfillment to our lives. Unfortunately, kids can also leave our bank accounts dwindling... As children get older, new expenses come into play: sports fees, after school care, technology, school supplies, summer camps, and clothes for their rapidly growing bodies. But there are ways to save some coin here [...]
During pregnancy, your friends and family may have shared stories with you about feeling “love at first sight” upon meeting their newborn, or having that “instant connection.” If that isn’t enough, movies and TV shows tend to show new mothers in postpartum bliss—and back to their pre-pregnancy bodies with a clean house to boot! Of [...]
A new baby means some major changes for the entire family. Children’s reactions can vary from being helpful with diapers or feedings to jealousy or baby-like behavior. Preparing your child for the new baby will help get their bond off to a good start. Here are some steps you can take to help ease the [...]
Many of us make New Year’s resolutions about health, work, relationships and more. If you are a parent, perhaps you made a resolution or two to strive to be a “better” parent. However, no matter how many resolutions we may make, the fact is no one is a perfect parent. Everyone has times when they [...]
More fathers are taking or want to take a more active role in parenting. According to Time Magazine, “…65% of dads see their role as both provider and caretaker, and 85% aspire to fully sharing parenting with their spouses (however, only about 30% report that they do so).” Despite these changes, fathers can still feel [...]
All Parents Can Use Support Parents are their children’s first and most important teachers. Many studies show a parent’s influence on a child’s growth and development is more important than any other factor. Yet no one is “born with” parenting skills - it’s something learned through modeling other parents and learning parenting skills. In cultures [...]
Still Parenting Together Major relationship changes, such as separation or divorce, can present challenges, as well as opportunities, for parenting together. Even in the best of circumstances, it’s critical to be prepared and give consideration to how things will work when parenting together after a separation or divorce. It will not only help you and [...]
“Sibling rivalry.” We’ve all heard of it. If we have more than one child we’ve probably witnessed it. “My sibling is my best friend.” We’ve heard that too. Some of us have experienced it with our own siblings. How do we get our kids to go from rivals to friends, or to at least getting [...]
It’s still summer in Oregon -- no need to start “singing in the rain” for a few months. In fact, August and September can bring on the heat. What better way to cool down than to take a dip in some Northwest water! Here in Lane County, you can easily go to the ocean or [...]
