A mentor is "an experienced and trusted adviser." How do we come to find mentors? Often we either seek them out or they appear in our lives as someone to whom we feel connected. Whether it is someone to share in your parenting, career choices, or hobbies, mentors can help you grow. I just got … Continue reading Mentors: What Are They and How Do You Find One?
The Unique & Special Role of Dads
“Fathers are far more than just ‘second adults’ in the home. Involved fathers bring positive benefits to their children that no other person is as likely to bring.” Dr. David Popenoe Happy Father’s Day! If you follow my blog you know that I support and conduct research on the importance of fathers. Fathers play a … Continue reading The Unique & Special Role of Dads
Mom: Sherpa, Supporter, & Number 1 Fan
Since it is Mother’s day, let’s talk about moms. Moms become moms the day they find out they are pregnant. Before the baby even enters the world, moms feel responsible for taking care of this new life by providing it with the most nurturing environment she can inside her body. And, babies make themselves known! … Continue reading Mom: Sherpa, Supporter, & Number 1 Fan
The Pressure of Being a Teenager
Teenagers know what pressure is! Just try it, it will be fun. Are you really going to wear that? Hey, did you hear that Joe's parents are out of town Saturday. OMG! We have to do that again! Do it, or I'll tell everyone what a poser you are! You can't say things like that if you are … Continue reading The Pressure of Being a Teenager
A Spin on Risk-Taking Behavior as an Expression of Positive Youth Development
More often then not we associate risk-taking behavior in teens as negative or harmful. However, we know that the teen brain is literally wired to take risks. Therein lies the dilemma. We are left with the belief, or fear, that our teens are going to take risks that could have serious consequences. I would like … Continue reading A Spin on Risk-Taking Behavior as an Expression of Positive Youth Development
5 Steps to Creating the New Year With Your Teen
First of all HAPPY NEW YEAR! I hope 2012 was filled with exciting moments and lasting memories, and that 2013 brings you happiness and vitality! People often start their new year by making resolutions, either individually or as a family. Many think of a resolution as a single goal, or a habit that should be created … Continue reading 5 Steps to Creating the New Year With Your Teen
Connect With Your Teen Through Music
One of the greatest things about teenagers is the wonder, passion, and intensity through which they see the world and live their lives. They are curious, thoughtful, and dramatic. For many teens, music becomes a major way to express themselves and feel through their emotions. The love struck teen makes a playlist of love songs. … Continue reading Connect With Your Teen Through Music
New On-Line Program for Fathers Experiencing Divorce or Separation
Just as divorce or separation is the furthest thing from a man’s mind on the day he says, “I do.”, being separated from his child is the farthest thing from his mind when he hears, “It’s a boy!” or “It’s a girl!” Yet, close to 50% of marriages end in divorce, and roughly 80% of … Continue reading New On-Line Program for Fathers Experiencing Divorce or Separation
Is My Teen’s Behavior Too Risky?
Picture this scene: Mom and dad are out of town for a week. In their absence, a good friend is watching their house and their two teenagers kids. Things go smoothly Friday and Saturday night. However, the tides turn! While everyone nestles into bed Sunday evening, 16 year old James is on the phone with … Continue reading Is My Teen’s Behavior Too Risky?
Something Has Got To Change! Creating Habits for School Success
It is natural to put a lot of energy into the transition back to school. Don’t forget that it is just as important to develop good habits throughout the entire year. Consider that many of the things that you do on a day-to-day basis are not well thought out decisions, but habits. This is as … Continue reading Something Has Got To Change! Creating Habits for School Success