Raising an entitled teen can be the nightmare that leads to out-of-control spending, an entitled attitude, and disrespect for authority. But what if you could prevent it from happening in the first place? Read on for my tips for raising a grateful, humble, and well-mannered teen!” I co-founded a middle school from scratch with another…
Sexting has become a common occurrence among teenagers. As a parent, it is important that you are aware of what sexting is and what the consequences can be.
The ability to communicate effectively is a key life skill. This blog shows you how to improve family communication skills with five fun and simple activities. Clear and open communication helps minimize misunderstandings and strengthen family bonding. When family members can communicate properly, they fight less and solve problems together. Positive communication is a skill…
Teaching respect to a neurotypical child through threats and force creates a defiant and disrespectful child. Teaching respect is one of the most important jobs a parent has. It’s also one of the most difficult. Many parents try to teach respectful behavior by using threats or force, but this often backfires and results in more…
I love the renovation shows on HGTV. I love seeing the process and the big reveal. I like demolition day when they get out the sledge hammers, destroy walls, and rip down everything to expose the studs and foundation. I like to see the homeowners’ reactions when they realize that there are more problems under…
–A short narrative on leaving a toxic relationship. They said, “I have no idea why she left. She just did and she never looked back. She is a sociopath.” I did look back. I looked back for years hoping you would truly see me. I looked back hoping you would just own some of your…
Time for mother-daughter adventures can disappear when life is busy, and it is that time of the year when every mom thinks, “What can I get my daughter that will not be thrown on the floor or lost?” Give the gift of adventure. From a “Girl’s Yes Day” to swinging from a trapeze, challenge yourselves…
One of the most important skills for children to learn is self-regulation. This means being able to control their emotions, behaviors, and thoughts. It’s essential for academic success, social interaction, and overall well-being. Unfortunately, kids do not come wired with this skill from the get-go. In middle school, it can feel like you are starting…
When a parent discovers that their child is cutting, they are often shocked and panicked. It’s tragically common, but how parents react can affect their adolescent children’s healing. Middle and high school self-harm is hidden, misunderstood, and shameful. Self-harmers usually have challenging emotions and concerns to deal with. They cut themselves to cope with extreme…
This is a letter written to a mom from a teen daughter’s perspective. (TW: Self-Harm) Dear Mom, I am sorry. I am so sorry. It hurts. I push the pain down, just like when you push a ball underwater in the pool. I hold it there, but it pushes back, and I can’t hold it…