Why Kids Need Routines – And Parents Do, Too!

Dad reading baby a bedtime story

“Children, like the rest of us, handle change best if it is expected and occurs in the context of a familiar routine. A predictable routine allows children to feel safe, and to develop a sense of mastery in handling their lives.” – Dr. Laura Markham, Aha! Parenting.com When I was a teacher, I wrote our … Read more Why Kids Need Routines – And Parents Do, Too!

Teach Kids To Be Kind With This Fantastic Resource

Child helping another child up after fall

Yesterday, my youngest son bounced into the kitchen with a big smile on his face. “Ollie filled my bucket!” he said. “He gave me his Altaria EX Pokemon card.” Now I don’t know my Pokemon characters as well as I should (other than Pikachu), but I could tell Altaria EX must have been a good … Read more Teach Kids To Be Kind With This Fantastic Resource

The Importance of a Growth Mindset for Kids

girl writing in book with sister peering over her shoulder

“Common sense would suggest that having ability, like being smart, inspires confidence. It does, but only while the going is easy. The deciding factor in life is how you handle setbacks and challenges. People with a growth mindset welcome setbacks with open arms.” – Dr. Travis Bradberry, What is the Best Predictor of Success My … Read more The Importance of a Growth Mindset for Kids

How to Declutter Kids’ Toys and Teach New Skills at the Same Time

3 kermit the frogs covering eyes, head, and mouth in dismay

It’s one week after the holidays (or a child’s birthday party) and you’re staring at the mountain of new toys that has suddenly invaded your living space. Just looking at all it stresses you out. You asked the relatives to tone it down this year, but Aunt Joanne and Uncle Bob insisted on spoiling your … Read more How to Declutter Kids’ Toys and Teach New Skills at the Same Time

How to Motivate Children to Learn New Skills Without a Daily Battle of Wills

chess board with white chess pieces

How do you motivate your children to learn a new skill? And, how do you get them to practice?  It’s not easy. I play the piano. Every time someone hears this, I get the same response. “I took piano lessons when I was little, but I quit. I wish I’d stuck with it.” The truth … Read more How to Motivate Children to Learn New Skills Without a Daily Battle of Wills

Improve Your Child’s Math Skills with a Dartboard

someone removing darts from dartboard

Please note – some of the links below are affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I love and have used personally. Thank you for supporting my blog. It’s Saturday morning. You pull out the … Read more Improve Your Child’s Math Skills with a Dartboard

Teach Kids To Be More Independent With A Calendar Routine

wall calendar showing the month of january

You have to leave the house in five minutes! Your youngest begs for help to put on his shoes and your eldest has just announced he can’t find his homework. You’re scolding your children while you frantically search for jackets, back packs, and water bottles. Does this sound like a morning at your house? We … Read more Teach Kids To Be More Independent With A Calendar Routine