Teens

My family has a lot to be thankful for. We've never gone hungry, we have warm clothes, all the necessities, and (if I'm being totally honest) excess. We don't NEED all the toys and books and gadgets we have....

October 20th is National Youth Confidence Day. You probably haven’t heard much about this special day but it is a day we should all add to our mom radar. National Youth Confidence Day is designed to celebrate the energy,...

THIS IS NO TRICK. Keeping your kids’ teeth healthy should be a lifelong mission. By Dr. Nima Hajibaik, Orthodontist & Owner of Newpark Orthodontics It’s October- Orthodontic Health Month! And as much as my kids view it as “gorge yourself on...

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. Bullying is more than just being mean to another person. Officially, it is defined as repeated unkind or abusive behaviors that target a specific person and is intended to physically, socially, and/or emotionally...

Senior Year, that magical time when you embark on a journey with fellow parental spirits through the mysteries of Testing, Applications, Graduation, Parties, and the Evil Empty Nest.  You swear allegiance to Facebook support groups, start Pinterest boards, and...

Now that it’s August, it’s back to school time. For some, it’s a period of mixed emotions. Some students are excited to enter a new grade level or school students other kids may have some anxiety to go to...

Ryan (name changed) was one of my students several years ago. He was a good student, and generally quiet. He often sat with his legs stretched out beneath the desk and his chin resting in his hand. One day--he...

What do I say to my kids about school shootings and/or other anxiety-provoking news? How do you help your kids feel safe when their world feels out of control? I get many questions on this.  One thing I always tell my...

My daughter and I have this communication thing down pat.  She's 18-years-old, she's female, and she's an open book.  We have a natural rhythm going, (even though we hit a sour note every once in a while). My son and...

Well, we are at the halfway point of the long goodbye. She finished her last first semester of high school. College applications have been sent, senior photos have been taken, spring break plans are being made, and the graduation...