Coping Strategies for Holiday Meltdowns
Any honest parent will share that among the magic of holiday moments and favorite traditions come dysregulated feelings, big emotions, and exhausted children. December and...
Read ArticleFeatured Articles
‘Tweens and the Sephora Craze
One of my favorite pastimes has always been exploring new makeup and beauty products. I began experimenting with makeup when I started ballet and was...
Read ArticlePledges for the New Year
January always puts me in a reflective mood, thinking about what is to come in the new year. Like many parents, I easily get caught...
Read ArticleWinter Coat Negotiations
Clouds linger longer, darkness descends sooner, and breaths hang in chilly air. Autumnal weather slides into winter and negotiations begin. Part-business deal, part-parenting comes the...
Read ArticleA Holiday Gift Wish List for Grandparents
Giving and receiving gifts can be such a heartwarming part of the holiday season. Seeing the joy on your child or grandchild’s face when they...
Read ArticleHolidays, Relatives, Kids, & Lots of Pickles,
With the cool fall weather, the travel season begins. Snacks are packed, weather forecasts checked, and toys and tablets are at the ready. Whether by...
Read ArticleParents Have Messy Cars!
When my daughter was three, I bought a new car to take advantage of safety features, better gas mileage, and integrated GPS. I vowed to...
Read ArticleHow to Manage Your Child’s Separation Anxiety
It’s only natural for babies to want to be close to their parents. But what does it mean when suddenly your child cries every time...
Read ArticleThe Museum of Child Art
As you enter, the wood floors creak underneath your feet and your immersive art experience begins. Looking around, you notice the range of art pieces...
Read ArticleCalifornia’s Maternity and Paternity Leave Regulations
California has several laws related to maternity and paternity leave. It is important to note that these laws have specific eligibility requirements and other conditions that must be met in order to qualify for leave or benefits.
Read ArticleFive Ways Your Monterey County Kids Can Volunteer
One fun and rewarding way to occupy your kids is to get them involved with volunteering. Volunteering your time to an organization allows your kids...
Read ArticlePelvic Floor Support for New Mothers
Pelvic floor muscles support the bladder, bowel and the uterus. They prevent incontinence of bladder and bowel, prolapse and are also important in sexual function. The pelvic floor can be weakened by pregnancy, childbirth, prostate cancer treatment, obesity and the straining of chronic constipation. We chat with Dr. Kyle Hartman of Monterey about treatment.
Read ArticleBirth Options for Monterey
For military mamas-to-be new to Monterey, finding out about your birth and postpartum options can be daunting. On top of the stress of moving and...
Read ArticleReading Aloud to Your Preschooler
I have three children under 10, and I know exactly what it is like to sit in a room with a book cracked open and...
Read ArticleHelping Shy Children Thrive at Summer Camp
Entering into new activities can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience for any child. For those who are naturally shy, the prospect of starting at a new summer camp can feel particularly daunting.
Read ArticleChildren With Disabilities: Managing Things When You Have Multiple Children
Once a child receives a diagnosis of a disability, medical and therapy appointments and supportive services are often the next steps in managing their needs and support. This can be especially challenging with multiple children.
Read ArticleTaking Center Stage: Performance Anxiety & Kids
Many children deal with stage fright including the author’s daughter. Here is his advice on helping children develop coping skills.
Read ArticleTherapy and Support Resources for Children With Special Needs in Monterey County
Once a child receives a medical diagnosis of a disability, a new chapter of parenting and advocating begins: seeking out and starting therapy programs and supportive services. Here are Monterey County resources you’ll need.
Read ArticleTalking Careers With Your Child
Our Father’s Day columnist discusses why discussing career possibilities is so important and how to encourage your child’s career dreams.
Read ArticleThe Importance of Grandparents
Our Father’s Day columnist, Rob Weisskirch reflects on the benefits of grandparents as he prepares to say goodbye to his grandmother.
Read ArticleOur Favorite Books About Parenting
Here are some of our favorite books about parenting, perfect for gifting to yourself or parents-to-be.
Read ArticleYour Sleep Questions are Answered!
If you have questions about getting your toddler to sleep, Lexi Teska, Pediatric Sleep Consultant, has answers!
Read ArticleCreating Your Mom Village
My son is my number one wingman. He’s the reason I’ve made my closest friends and the mothers who have become my mom group, who bring so much joy, support, and laughter into my life.
Read ArticleHow to Manage Your Child’s Separation Anxiety
It’s only natural for babies to want to be close to their parents. But what does it mean when suddenly your child cries every time you leave the room? Gianna Frazee, MD offers insights on how to help your child navigate separation anxiety.
Read ArticleVolunteering is Good For Families
Research supports that volunteering has direct benefits, such as improved well-being, health, and self-esteem.
Read ArticleHow Music Can Clue Parents in on a Child’s Emerging Identity
One thing I always point to as an early sign of identity development is when kids become “musically aware” (my term)–when kids start listening to their own choice of music and want to control the music that is heard in the car and at home.
Read ArticleWhat Working Parents Want from Employers
Balancing work and family can seem impossible, with challenges in every stage of parenting and surprises at every turn. These are a few things employers must remember to attract a broader range of applicants.
Read ArticleParents Share Their Tips for Work and Home Life Balance
While owning a business or working from home can offer flexibility, it also presents challenges. For these parents, communication and flexibility are key to balancing home and work.
Read ArticleEncouraging Creativity in Children
Creative people are better problem-solvers, more resilient, and generally happier. So, what can we do to foster creativity in our children?
Read ArticleFive Things I’ve Learned in Raising a Ten-Year-Old
Recently, my daughter turned 10, putting her into the double digits and moving her into the second decade of life. But, reflecting, I have learned a few things in raising a kid to 10 that can help others.
Read ArticleKids, Friendship, and Goals
One of the most important tasks of childhood is navigating friendship. Our columnist shares how his daughter is learning to see her part in the conflict and look for ways to improve.
Read ArticleTen Ways Employers Can Support Parents
Offering benefits like flexible schedules and time off to care for an ill child benefit the parent, sure. But it also benefits the employer.
Read ArticleIn Praise of Dads
Research is consistent that dads impact kids and families differently than moms. But fatherhood also benefits dads!
Read ArticleTeen’s First Job? Parents Learn As Much As Teens Do
Do you have a teen starting their first job this summer? If so, there’s a good chance that you’ll find out, like our author does, that your child is capable, and that while they don’t need you all of the time, they do still need you occasionally.
Read ArticleParents in Waiting
Time waiting for kids is well spent. Kids recognize your presence and reap the benefits of parental involvement.
Read ArticleCamp Counselor: The Toughest Job You’ll Ever Love
After speaking with a few area adults who worked as camp counselors when they were teens, I’m certain of one thing: This is an opportunity that can benefit your child in many BIG ways, and not just in the near-term.
Read ArticleLiar, Liar, Pants on Fire: Why kids lie and strategies for dealing with it
Lying among young children, even among toddlers, may be a sign of advancing cognitive development. Children have to learn from interactions with others that outward facial expressions and communication may not match the thoughts.
Read ArticleChallenges Parents of Children with Disabilities Face
Parenthood presents challenges for all families but the complexities of raising children with disabilities and those who are neurodivergent can include additional stressors.
Read ArticleBooks to Prepare Your Child for the Start of Preschool
FOR CHILDRENBenny the Brave in The First Day Jitters by Julie Anne PennFirst day? New School? New experience? Feeling scared? Benny the Brave is here...
Read ArticleIt’s Time to Connect!
While the New Year’s resolution has become a marketing gimmick (gym memberships?), that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth reflecting on how (and how often) your family spends time together and considering ways to get more face-to-face time.
Read ArticleTeach kids to play? YES!
I sometimes think, as adults, we believe kids innately know how to play and create fun. But that isn’t true. Kids need to be taught how to use their imaginations.
Read ArticleShaping a Generation
Experiences like a pandemic, constant technology, and more diverse communities will shape today’s children as they mature. Parents can have a positive impact!
Read ArticleFinancial Literacy: The Gift that Keeps Giving
During this month of holidays in which gift-giving is the norm, monetary gifts can be the most meaningful. Gifts of money offer your child choices: Save. Spend. Give. Invest.
Read ArticleThinking About Rituals
Research supports the idea that a ritual and being together as a family increase individual enjoyment and cohesion. Even for teens, family rituals are related to greater social connectedness and alleviating depression.
Read ArticleParents of Children With Disabilities: How and Where to Find Support Systems
Connecting with other parents whose children have disabilities, even if it’s not the same diagnosis as their child, gives parents support, encouragement, empathy, and resources that lift their spirits and build communities and friendships.
Read ArticleOne Thankful Grandma
In this month of thanks, and because this is a grandma column, here are five reasons I’m grateful for my grandkids.
Read ArticleLove Languages and Being a Dad
Yesterday, I got a note from my daughter in my lunch bag, “Dad, have a good day! Love, Sloan.” Admittedly, it brought a smile to...
Read ArticleSet an Example to Raise Environmentally Conscious Kids
October usually kicks off the holiday season: the weather turns cool, we bring out the sweaters, and we settle in for a season of togetherness...
Read ArticleRaising Kids Who Vote
With midterms on November 8 and all that has recently happened in the courts, voting—and politics—is more important than ever. And not just for adults.Even...
Read ArticleMagic Babies Create Magical Families
In honor of Down syndrome month, meet four Monterey County families who have thriving “magic babies.”
Read ArticleThe Fight Against Vaping: What Monterey County parents need to know
“Vaping”–the practice of inhaling a vapor containing nicotine and flavoring via the e-cigarette–has put a new generation at risk. SB 793, on the ballot in November aims to protect our children from vaping.
Read ArticleHelping Kids Navigate the Complexities of Friendship
If I want to know what is happening in my daughter’s life, now and in the future, I need to know about the drama, support her in figuring out who is not a friend, and help her understand more about how to be a good friend.
Read ArticleWhen Grandparents Divorce
I am one of those women who filed for divorce after two years of the pandemic. I am keenly aware of the effect this may have on my grandchildren.
Read ArticleSeven Tips For Keeping Your Child’s Afterschool Routine Balanced
We all want to help our children succeed, and often wonder if we are doing too much or too little. We may think we are guiding them, but might actually be pressuring our kids too much and making them feel as if they are not good enough.
Read ArticleWhen Back to School is Scary
School is supposed to be a safe place where children go to learn and engage with their teachers and peers and make friends. However, school can be anxiety-inducing.
Read ArticleFinding the right balance for Afterschool Activities
However, even as visions of school buses dance in your head, returning to the routine itself can create new problems, especially in time management. How much of a child’s day should be scheduled? Where is that sweet spot?
Read ArticleSeven Tips For The Best First Day of School
It’s back-to-school month, and parents know what that means: finding ways to make the first day of school (and the days leading up to it) fun. Because let’s face it, most kids wish summer could go on forever. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
Read ArticleWake Up Sleepyhead! Back to school means back to morning routines.
Good-bye, slower pace of summer, and hello to school bells and taking attendance! Welcome back to tightly scheduled mornings with the goal of getting kids to school on time and with the necessary supplies.
Read ArticleCelebrating all kinds of courageous fathers
There are many dads out there who face challenges in raising children, and there are some courageous men out there who especially deserve recognition on this Father’s Day.
Read ArticleMaking Mom Friends Is Hard to Do (but so worth it!)
Making friends can be difficult at any age but when you’re a mom of littles, isolation can make it even more difficult. We talked to local moms to get their tips on making friends.
Read ArticleMoms Flying Solo
Being a single mother is a balancing act. You have to nurture and discipline. You have to make a living and a home. You have to figure out how to supervise your children from afar, because you aren’t always available. It is exhausting. And yet, it is
Read ArticleCelebrating the wonder that is mom’s purse
It is in this month that we celebrate Mother’s Day and show our appreciation for mothers and everything they do. But, as a dad, I also want to take a moment to recognize the wonderment that is the Mom Purse.
Read ArticleCaptive Car Conversations
It can be hard to find time to catch up with our kids. The time we spend chauffeuring them around offers the perfect opportunity!
Read ArticleThe Grandkids are in the House!
Are you helping mom and dad with childcare during spring break? Here are suggestions on how you can keep the kids busy and entertained.
Read ArticleHelping Kids Learn About Money
Whether your child is just beginning to learn about money, or you’re helping your older kids learn how to budget, here are a few games and tricks you can use to help them understand the true value of a dollar.
Read ArticleSummer Camp for Introverted Kids
Does sending your introverted child to summer camp seem like an insurmountable task? Don’t count it out so quickly! With preparation and care, it is possible.
Read ArticleFirst Time Camper: Off to camp she went!
Late last summer, we decided to send our daughter to sleepaway camp. It was a decision that we made with some trepidation.
Read ArticleChill out, millennials. You’re doing fine!
Millennials get a bad rap but our “Grandma Says” columnist shares her very positive experience with them and her advice is for millennials to chill out. They’re doing a great job parenting.
Read ArticleThe Book List: Bold Women in Books to Celebrate Women’s History Month
This month’s recommendations feature bold women (both real and fictional) whose stories will inspire and empower growing girls to reach for the stars.
Read ArticleHow to Support Your New Teen Driver
Before your teen gets behind the wheel for a driving lesson, Dr. Laura Markham, clinical psychologist and author of “Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids” recommends the following suggestions.
Read ArticleA Month of Love with our Father’s Day Columnist
Valentine’s day has become more than just demonstrating your love, affection, and appreciation for your romantic partner. As a dad, I also acknowledge my love and appreciation for my daughter as one of my valentines.
Read ArticleResources for Parents Seeking Friendship and Support
Support groups are the perfect place to meet parents that you immediately have something in common with. Here are a variety of Monterey County and Santa Cruz County organizations offering classes and groups.
Read ArticleFocus on Fatherhood for 2022
Involvement is being there and interacting with your children. Consistency is about how you behave and interact with your kids. Awareness is knowing about your children. Nurturance is expressing your affection with your child physically & verbally.
Read ArticleBlack Fatherhood: Two Americas
To be a Black father in America is to balance the constant fear that your child’s life will be stolen with the joy and love of parenthood.
Read ArticleParenthood with a Side Gig
Are you ready to dip your toe into the side gig pool? Here are five things to know before you dive in deep!
Read ArticleHolidays with Family: Healthy Boundaries & Letting Go
I’ve been thinking a lot about family expectations and how they can be both a blessing and a burden. And specifically, how those expectations play out during the holiday season.
Read ArticleCreating a Council of Dads for My Daughter
Research is pretty consistent that children fare better when they recognize an adult network of support in their lives. I have been fortunate to have had other father figures and my father to create a system of support and understanding, and I hope t
Read ArticleWe Raised a Reader: Bedtime Stories
My daughter has become a proficient reader, finding great delight in devouring chapter books. My wife and I are thrilled that she has discovered the pleasure of reading. Research is consistent that skills in reading and literacy propel learning.
Read ArticleThe Arts & Our Grandchildren
One of the best ways grandparents can support their grandchildren is by participating in arts activities with them. You could participate in an activity–painting, singing, going to a museum. Or, you could be the chauffeur!
Read ArticleAll-Star Answers to Parents’ Sports Questions
We asked experts at the National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) as well as an award-winning college coach/recruiter to answer some of the best questions parents have about kids and sports. NAYS provides training to youth sports programs.
Read ArticleKids and Eating: Picnics, Barbecues, and Summer Fruit
Dads also play a part in the development of food habits. In one study of fathers of preschoolers, more than half said that they were equally responsible for organizing the meals and deciding on the quality and quantity of foods consumed by their kids
Read ArticleWhat Dad Stuff Are You Teaching?
There are certain things that kids should be taught and learning these skills leads to confidence and self-sufficiency. What is on the list to teach your children?
Read ArticleFive things I learned from my mother … about being a father
There are times when I am talking to my daughter, hearing the words from my mouth, and I realize that I sound like my mother. My parenting is deeply rooted in how I was parented and particularly by my mother.
Read ArticleThe Mother Load
The COVID-19 pandemic revealed system flaws in health, economics, race, and even gender, particularly as it relates to motherhood. Homeschooling and quarantine intensified motherhood, compounded by work demands and financial uncertainty.
Read ArticleBirds and Bees, Everywhere: Starting the Discussions about Sex
Spring has arrived. The weather is warmer, and the flowers are blossoming. The birds and bees are out and in our house too. Yup, we are talking about babies and reproduction, and I am terrified.
Read ArticleThis Isn’t easy: Coping With Pandemic Anxiety, Depression, and Sadness
The pandemic has necessitated sweeping changes to the way kids learn, play, and socialize. The closure of schools and the cessation of extracurricular activities means that kids no longer have the same access. Their worlds have been turned upside dow
Read ArticleLooking at the Pandemic as a “Found Year” With My Daughter
When I see news or social media posts about how coping with Covid-19 and dealing with remote learning has become a “lost year” for kids, it makes me cringe. Framing this past year in negative terms makes our children absorb that sentiment.
Read Article13 Ways to Tell Your Child “I Love You”
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, here are thirteen creative ways to show your child a little extra love.
Read ArticleWhat My Grandchildren are Helping Me Learn About Racism
Children don’t start out caring about race, color, nationality, etc. But, somewhere along the line, they see us. They mimic us. And then they become us. Make sure you are worthy of being emulated. Don’t expect them to overcome your racism.
Read ArticleNew Dad? New Life!
The early days of infancy are terrifying, exhilarating, sleepless, and yes, janitorial. If you’re new to the job (or will be soon) here are some tips that may help ease the transition.
Read ArticleParenting in Uncertain Times
The experts at Triple P offer advice on communicating with our children during uncertain times.
Read ArticleTalking to Your Children About the Attack on the United States Capitol
There has been nonstop news coverage of the attack on The United States Capitol. By now many children will have seen photos or video of the events and will have questions and concerns. How can you best address your child’s anxieties and concerns?
Read ArticlePandemic Parenting: Lessons Learned
We are learning many things from this pandemic: some good, some not so good. We are having to rethink how we live our lives, how we manage our businesses, and how we are raising our families.
Read ArticleWords of Wisdom for Mama
Young mothers, I wish I had some wise words to add to these phrases the women told me my whole life. I can’t imagine what it is like raising young children during these times of social distancing, closed schools, shuttered businesses, working and sch
Read Article10 Benefits of Practicing Gratitude With Kids
When you actively practice gratitude you have fewer physical problems, sleep better, cope more effectively with stress, and live longer! Starting the gratitude habit with your kids puts them on the path of emotional and physical health!
Read ArticleDemocracy at Home and Being Thankful
Although notions of “government” are often abstract ideas for young children to understand, they understand little fragments of how democracy gets enacted in the household.
Read ArticleWhat parents need to know about human trafficking
According to the Monterey County Office of Education and the Department of Social Services, it is believed that more than 100 children ages 10-18 have been trafficked in Monterey County since 2015. You don’t need to panic but you do need to be aware.
Read ArticleTeaching Your Kids About Civic Responsibility
With a contentious election just weeks away, the importance of educating our children about their civic responsibility has never been greater. We have some suggestions that work for all ages.
Read ArticleWCGD? (What Can Grandparents Do?)
It’s a tough time, we get it. As grandparents, ask yourself, “what can I do to help my family?” There are so many ways you can lend an assist around your grandkids’ altered education, Halloween celebrations, and fall activities.
Read ArticleFive Factors for Strong Families
The good news is that the bad things that happen to a family don’t define them, and we can minimize the risks of adversity to children’s developing brains and bodies, which are more sensitive to stress, using “protective factors.”
Read ArticleTalking About the Pandemic with Your Kids
The pandemic has now been with us for almost six months, and no one knows when it’ll pass. How can parents talk to their kids about it in a way that’s realistic and helpful but doesn’t make them worry? Here’s what the experts say:
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