ParentingParenting
Dater's Ed, Second Gear: The road map
Parenting
Written by Lisa Jander
Is it possible to live on this planet and avoid relationships? More likely than missing potholes on my dirt road during winter? We all know that kids will develop many healthy "non-dating" relationships during school-age years that a parent can and should encourage: team sports, supportive friends, church groups, etc. These are vital to your child's well-being and self-esteem, but these aren't the relationships we fear. These aren't the ones that kids fret over and lose sleep over as they anguish in the night about whether Jordan noticed the bracelet they were wearing that dangled the new "Forever" charm, saved for with hard-earned lawn-mowing money.
Dater's Ed, First Gear: Pave the way to healthy teen relationships
Parenting
Written by Lisa Jander
"Geez, Mom, I'm old enough to drive, why can't I date?" I was sitting at the kitchen table contemplating that question as I signed the Driver's Ed log for my son.
I was about to promise the world with my signature that my child had, in fact, driven these required hours with me in the car. Yes, I had spent a good number of those hours gripping the passenger door handle and biting my tongue. Occasionally I had blurted out some vital warning to save us from a fender-bender, like "Dude! Truck!"
Read more: Dater's Ed, First Gear: Pave the way to healthy teen relationships
New Driver Contract for Safe Driving
Parenting
Written by Rixey-Berry Insurance Group, Inc.
Despite the classes and the tests and on-the-road training, young drivers often lose their way when it comes to safety. To clarify parental expectations and ground rules, this contract was developed by a father and insurance company president for both his children and his clients. Each point should be checked as you review it with your young driver. Feel free to adapt the rules to your family.
A Family Problem
Parenting
Written by Leslie Hershberger
Who is the emotionally "healthy one" in the family? The answer is...it depends. Reflecting on one's family of origin, like reflecting on your Enneagram (a personality style which helps us understand ourselves and others), offers incomparable insight into how we think about ourselves, others and the decisions we make.
Turning Hardship into Hope
Parenting
Written by Inspired Mother Staff
Reality often collides with childhood in an uncomfortable way for parents. During this holiday season, the clash is particularly jarring for many families. Santa's elves might be in the unemployment line.
How do you explain the loss of a job? What is the appropriate way to talk with kids about finances? How can you empower rather than frighten children when times are tough?
Jamie Mazza, professional counselor, parent coach and mother of two, shares her tips on turning hardship into opportunity. Here's what she says:
