Guilty of Not Feeling Guilty

Don't get me wrong; I'm no stranger to mom guilt. Who is? Mom guilt comes in all forms and from all directions

7 Signs Your Kids Are Ready For Sports

To make sure you're not jumping the gun, look for the following signs before considering sports for your kids

Why Every Mom Needs Time Alone

Sometimes my favorite company is my own

10 Money Mistakes Parents Make

One reason children are so expensive is because parents make many common mistakes that end up hurting their bank accounts. Here are 10 frequent missteps, adapted from the new book Generation Earn, and how to avoid them

5 Smart Ways to Save Money for Your Children

What should parents do with their savings? It turns out that there are some new strategies that work better than the traditional methods of saving. Here are five new, smart ways to save for your children

How to Raise Polite Kids

When it comes to learning manners, practice makes perfect. But you have to know what your kids are developmentally capable of before you set any expectations. With that in mind, here are tips for teaching kids the basic social skills they need to succeed

How to Raise Thankful Kids

Going around the table saying what you're thankful for is great, but it doesn't teach your child what it really means to give thanks. Teaching gratitude is an everyday job -- and the benefits are huge. Here's how to make your child happier, healthier and more thankful

How to Raise Caring Kids

Kids are naturally many things: They're curious, funny and loving. But one thing they're not is thoughtful. Empathy for others is a trait that must be learned -- and you are the best person to teach it. Volunteering together is an excellent way to increase your child's social and emotional growth while spending quality time together. Here, some age-by-age ideas for lending a helping hand.

Teach Your Kids to Stress Less

We can't protect our children from every stressful situation that life throws at them. Instead, it's important to teach them to recognize the signs of stress and learn how to react in a positive, healthy way. Here's practical tips for helping your kids stress less

The Art of Saying No to Your Children

By the time they reach school age, kids are as skilled at debating as politicians on the campaign trail. But while their persistence can wear you down, giving in to their pleas will only encourage them to keep it up. If you say no, and your child learns to accept it, your child learns to accept your values. Here are five steps for saying no

Teaching Your Child Money Habits for Life

Financial responsibility, for the most part, stopped with the piggy bank. So, how can you teach your children the importance of saving, accounting for their spending, and self-discipline? Here are some money management strategies and tactics for parents that can help kids take control of their financial futures

Table Manners: Ready, Set, Napkins!

Use these games and activities to make learning good table manners fun

Former 'Bad' Kid Dishes on How to Deal With Problem Children

There are lots of parenting guides on how to deal with defiant children, but this is probably the only one written by a former defiant child.

8 Workplace Perks for New Parents

It's not easy for new parents to juggle work and family. That's why some companies offer perks to help employees transition into parenthood while continuing to succeed at the office. Here are eight perks for new parents that companies across the country offer to employees

Child-Friendly College Programs for Parents

Here are some of the ways child-friendly college and university programs are helping mothers earn bachelor's degrees

Creative Indoor and Sick-day Activities for Kids

Here, a few creative and simple sick-day activities to make the most of your day together

Parents: Stop Being So Awkward With Money

Kids want to learn more about finances from their parents, if only parents would open up

6 Signs Your Child Is Gifted

You often hear parents talk about children being 'gifted.' But what does that term really mean -- and can you develop it in your child?

Keep Your Kids Safe in Sports

To protect your kids from serious sports injuries, prevention is key. But if an accident does occur, be prepared. Here's how to spot and treat the most common injuries in kids' sports

Heading Soccer Ball Linked with Brain Injuries

Soccer players who frequently head the ball face the possibility of brain injury and cognitive impairment, according to a new study

Youth Football Players at Increased Risk for Stroke

Young football players may be at a higher risk of suffering a stroke than their peers, according to a new study

Supplements for High School Athletes: How to Make Smart Choices

As parents, coaches and mentors, we have a responsibility to help young adults make the right nutritional and wellness choices that will best support both their academic and athletic endeavors. Here's a set of worthwhile tips

Keep Your Athletes Hydrated On and Off the Field

With summer heat at its peak across the country and kids heading back to school athletics, band practice, drill team and the like, this is a good time to discuss heat-related illnesses and their prevention.

A New Strain of Flu?

Here's what every parent needs to know about these flu strains going into the 2011 – 2012 season

The Science Behind Your Favorite Childhood Remedies

Researchers have studied the effects of your mom's chicken soup, steamy baths and more on colds. We'll tell you what really works

8 Ways to Soothe a Sick Kid

No mom wants her child to feel miserable -- and the common cold can really wipe a kid out! Fortunately, combining a few simple moves with time-tested remedies can help ease your little one's symptoms. So the next time she starts coughing and sneezing, try these savvy tricks to soothe your sick kid in no time

Is It Really That Icky?

Your child drops an animal cracker on the floor, then bends over to pick it up and eat it. You think to yourself, '10-second rule!' But how bad is it, really? Are you letting your kids pick up germs and bacteria, or are they actually boosting their immune systems? To find out when -- and if -- being a germophobe mom pays, we talked with expert Carole Marsh. Here's what she had to say

Are Germ-killing Products Harming Your Health?

Germ-killing toothpastes, antibacterial soaps, sanitizing deodorants, bacteria-banishing home cleaners. With all of these products on the market, you'd think everything in hand's reach is likely to make your family sick. But are all germ-killing products really protecting us in the long run? Here's us the lowdown on which products are worth it and which aren't

Colic -- Although Stressful -- is Temporary

My 7-week-old son is often inconsolable, to the point where he will cry for up to six hours a day. He's extremely gassy and at times seems to be in pain and cannot nap comfortably. Our pediatrician says that it's most likely colic. Please help me understand this condition and what I can do to help him. Is this something he will outgrow?

A Parent's Guide to Coughs

No parent enjoys hearing a child cough, even though coughing is the body's way of keeping the lungs clear and preventing pneumonia. But that doesn't make the problem any easier for you or your child. Here's a guide to deciphering and treating the most common types of cough symptoms.

Parents Guide to Cold Medicines

We asked the experts for a guide to cold medicine that helps clear up the confusion

Is Your Family Sleep-deprived?

If you're considering whether your children get enough sleep, these healthy and simple sleep habits will help

Financial Essentials for New Parents

When a baby is born, the natural preoccupation is with taking and distributing photos of the adorable child. That's understandable, but financial considerations should not be far behind

The Apple Trick: On Not Tricking Kids into Eating Well

I attribute the fact that my four year old daughter eats everything, from oysters and rabbit ragu to kale and carrot juice, to pure and simple luck. Other parents ask, especially when they see her slurp down an oyster, how we get her to eat so well. When I say it is all luck, I'm not lying. But the truth is, I also use a few tricks

Keeping Lunch Boxes Interesting and Healthy

For most parents, having school-aged children means you are on lunch duty for 10 months. But how do you keep kids interested in eating lunches that are relatively healthy instead of ditching them for the alluring fast or junk food that they see the other kids eating?

How to Make Sure Your Kids Eat Enough Vegetables

It's common for kids to dislike or refuse to eat some fruits and vegetables. Your best bet is to be a good role model by eating the green stuff yourself (and at least acting like you enjoy it!). Here are a few tips to get your child to eat more fruits and vegetables

Getting Kids to Eat Their Vegetables

We've all heard of the kid who won't eat anything except chicken fingers and hot dogs -- and maybe you recognize this child well because he or she is yours. Although most children aren't this extreme, many are still not eating as much healthy foods as their parents would like

Healthy Eating Guide to Cereal

These days, buying breakfast cereals can be confusing. Many carry healthy labels or promote some health benefit even if they aren't the best choice for health. To ensure that you're buying a healthy product for your family, read labels and look for the following cues

Healthy Lunches Your Kids Will Love Recipe

Say so long to that tired PB&J sandwich and sugary juice box -- and hello to delicious, nutritious school-lunch ideas that your child will devour. Help your child ace her exams and stay healthy by making over her lunchbox with these healthy school-lunch ideas

What Parents Can Do to Keep Kids From Snacking Their Way to Obesity

The news on childhood obesity is almost universally bad, including this latest item: Kids snack three times a day on junk food, accounting for almost one third of their daily calories. Parents do have the power to help protect our children against the health risks of obesity, starting now. Here are three practical steps you can take today

The Threat of Childhood Obesity

William Dietz, a medical doctor and pediatrics expert who directs the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity, discusses the nation's problems with childhood obesity and what parents can do to encourage healthy choices by their children

Family Dinners Help Fight Obesity

Obesity and the problems associated with it -- type 2 diabetes, heart disease, joint problems and more -- begin in childhood. If we can't change our children's eating and exercise habits we have no hope of stemming the tide of ongoing obesity. In that vein, we must begin modeling better eating habits for our children by returning to the idea of family meals

Exercise for Kids: 5 Tips for Parents

It's no secret that childhood obesity is a major issue in the United States. At the core of the problem is the fact that less than one third of all children ages 6 to 17 get regular vigorous exercise, defined as at least 20 minutes of physical activity that makes them sweat and breathe hard. So what should parents do to get their kids moving more often? Here are 5 tips to get started

Protect Youth From Online Harassment

Although digital communities enable youths to socialize with peers and develop multimedia skills, these online forums also have risks. Fortunately there are ways for parents to help their children avoid these new types of harm

4 Ways to Protect Your Kids Online

New research shows the increasing dangers kids face online. Here's how you can help

4 Tech Tips for Parents to Embrace Digital Education

Here's some advice to keep up with your child's technology, while also keeping your family safe from digital traps

Should You 'Friend' Your Teens Online?

A decade ago, reading your teen's diary would have been the ultimate form of privacy invasion. Nowdays, checking out their Facebook page or Twitter feed can yield the same sense of betrayal -- if they don't know you're doing so. So how does a parent protect their kids from the dangers lurking on the Internet? The answer may be to join them online.

9 PM Blackout

It hit me about two months ago that evenings in front of the TV, video games, and computer at my house had finally gotten out of control. So I came up with an idea: The kids would have to turn off all screens at 9 p.m. and keep them off until bedtime

Get Your Kids to Trade in Screen Time for Sleep

It's time to reign in the connectivity: Recent studies have found that teens who sacrifice sleep time for screen time are at a greater risk for sleep disorders, mood swings and depression -- not to mention a less-than-stellar performance at school due to shortened attention spans. Here are five ways to help them find a better balance

Too Much Screen Time for Kids Means Poorer Health

The average American child spends four to five hours a day in front of a screen -- that's roughly one-third of their waking time either in front of a TV or a computer, and all that screen time could be adding up to poor health. Parents should consider the following strategies

Put A Stop To Bullying

Unfortunately, bullying is far too common these days. It seems like there's a headline in the news every day after a child brings a gun to school to threaten others, a child is beaten into a coma by bullies, or a child even takes his or her own life after being bullied

Too Much Screen Time for Kids Means Poorer Health

The average American child spends four to five hours a day in front of a screen -- that's roughly one-third of their waking time either in front of a TV or a computer, and all that screen time could be adding up to poor health.

Formspring.me - Teens' Ugly Scrawlings Go High Tech

There's a new social networking site called Formspring.me, Formspring, with 29 million users, is hot-hot-hot among teenagers, especially middle schoolers. Turns out Formspring is a highly effective way to insult, belittle and spread rumors.

Internet Safety Tips for Teens

Sure, you love to surf the Internet. But are you playing it safe? Here are some Internet safety tips every teen and parent should know.

Game On: Are Video Games Harmful

Violent and possibly addictive, video games have become a major part of American childhood. What should parents do?

Streamline Your Daily Life

Keeping your life on track means balancing work, family, friends and alone time, as well as making sure everything runs smoothly. For that, look for help from these five Internet tools

6 Baby Services New Parents Should Buy

For new and soon-to-be parents who are still on the fence about splurging on assistance, here's a guide to the services most worth their price, as well as tips on finding the most affordable versions of help

Babies and Jogging Strollers

I get a lot of questions from new parents who are runners about the use of jogging strollers. When researching the issue in the pediatric literature, I couldn't find a consensus about when it's safe and appropriate to use such a stroller with a newborn

Baby Goes Vintage

When it comes to reducing the eco-impact of your wee one, every hand-me-down -- from a bib to a set of blocks -- can help. Accepting previously loved items from friends rather than buying used goods from an unknown source is just one idea. Here are some other things to remember when you're on the hunt for vintage goods for your baby

Checklist for Choosing Safe Day Care

Finding the right day-care center requires a balance of many practical issues: location, cost, hours of operation. And you of course also want a nurturing staff. Narrow down your choices and find a safe day care facility for your child by considering these four questions

Ways to Save on After-school Programs

Choosing an after-school program is a big decision. Before you choose anything for your child, find out what's involved. Some activities require monthly fees, uniforms, shoes, etc. Fortunately, no matter what you sign up for, there are usually a few steps you can take to save on your child's after-school programs

How to Save on Back-to-School Shopping

Here's a Back-to-School Shopping guide to spending less while still making sure your child is ready to learn

Stop Back-to-school Stress

Whether your children are starting at a new school or returning to their stomping grounds, heading back into the classroom can be stressful. To make things easier on your entire family, try these moves to ease back-to-school stress

Stretch Your Back-to-school Shopping Dollars

August and September are two of the most expensive months of the year thanks to back-to-school shopping. But there are still plenty of ways to stretch your dollar and get more bang for your buck

Remember, Drowning Is Silent

In the summer, many families create memories and cool down at the beach, lake, or pool. Of course, the main concern is fun, but the first thing that comes to my mind when I think of water is safety

6 Essential Tips to Avoid Swimming Dangers

To help your little swimmers create happy memories of their own, it's important to keep them safe and healthy. Here's six key tips to avoid swimming dangers

Heat Can Be Deadly

It seems almost inconceivable, yet, tragically, it has happened more than 500 times. What are we talking about? Children who have died of heatstroke while in a parked automobile. Here's what parents and caregivers need to do to avoid this tragedy

Keep Your Teen Safe Behind the Wheel

If you're the parent of a teenage driver, it can be a bit nervewracking! The best way to keep your nerves in check is to establish and enforce the rules of the road

Fast-track Your Morning Routine

Rest assured that you can still simplify your morning routine to get out the door in 10 minutes flat, looking and feeling your best. Here's practical tips for parents

Build a Happy World for Your Baby

This may seem like a big undertaking, but you really can make the world a better place for baby without breaking your budget. As a mom of three brilliant, healthy and (mostly) happy children, I know firsthand that creating a better world doesn't have to be overwhelming or only for movie-star millionaires. Here are my three easy guidelines for improving your baby's world

Break That Hovering Habit Early

College administrators say they're coping with a growing crop of freshmen suffering the aftereffects of having been raised by overinvolved parents. These moms and dads may see their tendency to hover and help at every step as loving and protective. To prep kids to thrive in college rather than struggle, parents should begin to break their overprotective habits. Here's how

Help Your Kids Learn Better

In a country where nearly three million students are receiving special education services for a learning disability, many parents are hungry for ways to support their children's learning. The problem many children face is they've lost their zest for learning. Here's a few key steps to reinforce learning

Doesn't Take An Einstein to Raise Kids

As a mother, I would do almost anything to give my children a leg up in life. This is true, I think, for most conscientious parents. Call it biological imperative, if you will. This is why the 'educational' label is so ubiquitous, and learning colors, figuring out shapes and identifying letters has turned into Big Business

Mom Buried in Toy Landslide

It may be easier and faster to take care of it yourself, but that doesn't help your kids learn responsibility and gain organizational skills. And if you don't teach them how to pick up after themselves, they're not likely to do it. Help your kids take control of their stuff with this step-by-step guide.

Parenthood is A Real Scream

OK, I'll fess up. I have screamed at my kids. I have screamed out of frustration. I have screamed because they should know better. I have screamed when I'm rushed, overwhelmed, anxious, or because I've just plain had it with their boorish behavior.

Mom's Best Backup Plan

Whether it's a result of a surgery or something more common such as a cold or flu, if you need time to rest and recover, make sure your backup plan is in place ahead of time. Check out these strategies and be prepared.

Getting Your Kids to Help Clean

Besides saving you time and energy -- which we all know are rare commodities -- having your kids help clean now teaches them valuable survival skills they'll one day need when they're living on their own. But let's face it: Getting kids to help clean can be hard. So sometimes you've just got to get creative when it comes to cleaning up around the house. Here's some ideas

Parents Guide to Playing Pretend

Pretend play is a learning experience for young children. It lets them explore the world around them and experiment with social and emotional roles. It also boosts problem-solving skills. So pick up a wand or sword, put on a cape and get into your child's fantasy world. Here are some new additions to old-fashioned make-believe games that you can enjoy together

Why Non-Parents Are Happier Than Parents

In a recent New York Magazine article, a mother traces her own expectations as a parent and how reality clashed with those expectations. She cites mountains of data and studies showing that, as far as she can tell, American parents are more stressed and less happy than non-parents.

Sick Day TLC

Help make your little one's sick day a little better with some creative touches you can both feel good about.

How to Stop Your Baby's Wheezing and Prevent Asthma

Are you concerned when you hear your baby wheezing? You're not alone. The good news: A new study published in Pediatric Allergy and Immunology has identified consistent risk factors for wheezing in infants -- which means there are steps you can take to help prevent it

Sunscreen Facts You Need to Know

You know sunscreen is a must whenever you're outside, but sunburn has probably still caught you by surprise at some point. By slathering on sunscreen, you may have thought you were playing it safe, but there's actually more to it than that. Check out these commonly held sunscreen myths, then the facts that will keep your fun in the sun safe.

How can I tell if my kids' backpacks are too heavy

If you've been watching your youngsters head to school burdened by heavy backpacks, you've probably wondered if they're doing their bodies harm. One way to find out is to weigh your kids, then weigh their fully loaded packs

Fighting Drugs With the Power of Sleep

Parents looking to steer their teens away from drugs may want to encourage them to stay in bed longer. Lack of sleep seems to lead to increased drug use -- not the other way around, as many researchers previously concluded -- and this is likely to be a pattern of behavior that teenagers acquire from their friends.

Turns Out Listening's His Strong Suit

And so begins another mother-son exchange that leaves me wondering if my kids truly listen or if my words float off unheeded like dust motes in a ray of sunshine. With my days of mothering a minor numbered, prom season becomes one more opportunity to worm my way into his head and, perhaps, into his heart. I'm running out of time.

Peer Pressure? Whatever!

How far would you go to have others think you're cool? Would you steal from a store? Pull a cruel prank on a teacher? If you'd take risks and behave in ways you normally wouldn't just to follow the pack, that's caving in to peer pressure.

Teens Don't See Drinking and Driving Dangers

Spring school rituals -- prom and graduation -- begin with so much excitement and promise, yet they can end in tragedy for hundreds of teen drivers and their passengers. New research from Liberty Mutual Insurance and SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) suggests this season could be no different

Anxiety Before New School Year is Common for Many Children

My son, who will be in fourth grade, is really nervous about going back to school. He's had trouble with this in the past. Sometimes he gets so upset, he ends up with stomachaches. The problem usually fades as the school year goes on. But right now it's very hard on him, and it's stressful for the rest of the family, too. What can we do to help him make this transition easier?

Back-to-school Advice

Change is most dramatic for children starting a new chapter -- kindergarten, middle school, a move to a new school district. But even returning to what's familiar can rattle kids. So how can you help? First, be calm -- even if your child isn't. Then, try these tips for a smooth ride into the new school year

Stretch Your Back-to-school Shopping Dollars

August and September are two of the most expensive months of the year thanks to back-to-school shopping. But there are still plenty of ways to stretch your dollar and get more bang for your buck

Save Time and Money on School Lunches

Bringing a home-packed lunch to school is a requirement in my family. Being a mom, I like to know what my children are eating. Making lunch at home of course saves money, too. Here are my top three tips to save time and money when I pack my kids' school lunches

Back-to-School Shoppers Hunt for Deals

As Americans embark on their annual back-to-school shopping trips, they're cutting back and saving money where they can. That means clipping coupons, sticking to a budget, and reusing last year's supplies. So, where are Americans cutting back? Here's what they said they would focus on

Green Your Back-to-School Shopping

It's the time of year again: Kids and parents around the country are getting ready for another school year, and that means serious shopping time. But before you head out for a marathon shopping day, think about the ways you can go green to make your child's school year an eco-friendly one

Youth Kicks Today: Beating Each Other Senseless for Internet Notoriety

They are all over the Internet, short video clips with titles out of a boxing poster. Raul vs. Pedro. Red vs. Robert. Twinkie vs. Saylor. But these are not professional fighters. These are kids. High school kids, middle-school kids. They punch each other, pound each other, slap, yank, pull, tackle, rip, scratch and kick each other. And all the time, someone is filming.

Finding the 'Me' in Motherhood

Whether you're a mom or not, at some point you've likely put yourself on the back burner while turning your attention to the needs of those around you. But moms know this feeling better than anyone: With kids, life isn't only about you anymore. But if you're losing yourself in the process of raising a family, it's time to refocus. Here's how to find a balance

Finding Hidden Moments for Me-time

When your day is devoted to taking care of your kids, your husband, your job and the many other important things on your agenda, it can seem impossible to schedule time for yourself. But setting aside your own time is key to maintaining your physical and mental health. Here are six expert ways to find hidden moments in your day and how to spend them so you feel energized and invigorated.

Creative Ways to Combine Work & Family

Sharon Reed Abboud, author of All Moms Work: Short-Term Career Strategies for Long-Range Success, writes about 'the new mommy track,' or the trend towards mothers finding creative ways of combining work and family after their children are born. Abboud says telecommuting, freelancing, and owning your own business are all ways to make it possible

Stay-at-Home Moms Need a Career Plan

Becoming a stay-at-home mom doesn't necessarily mean bringing your career to a screeching halt. The possibility looms, however, if you don't maintain your network and keep current with your industry. Stay-at-home moms are advised to keep their career in motion, even if at a slower speed, by devising a short-term career strategy

Challenges and Rewards of Part-Time Work

To work or not to work many mothers grapple with that issue. Some moms decide to stay home for months or years, if it is economically feasible. Others continue to work full-time. Still others decide to reduce their hours to part-time, and remain on their career path, although possibly on a slower schedule.

To Stop Kids from Killing Kids

What might the highly publicized suicide of a Massachusetts girl tormented by cyber-bullying have in common with the videotaped fatal beating of a teenaged boy in Chicago? Other students apparently knew that trouble was brewing, but no one managed to step in and stop it.

Secrets of a Girl Bully

There is a recent rise in girl-on-girl physical violence, but most girl bullies use smack talk to intimidate their victims -- and they even take their smear campaigns online for widespread humiliation. Here, we point out a bully's weak spots so you can see straight through that plastic Queen of Mean mask she's hiding behind

Teen Violence: Senseless Rage Sparks Inexplicable Tragedy

Why are teens so angry? That question invariably pops into my head when I read about teen-on-teen violence. Sadly, such incidents seem to have become more common, and the question has taken on a new urgency as I struggle to make sense of the senseless

How to Rush-proof Your Morning Routine

What are mornings like at your house? If you're like most moms, it's probably the busiest part of your day. The beginning of the day tends to be chaotic and stressful for a bunch of reasons. With some key planning and organizational strategies, it is possible to turn the morning mayhem into a peaceful and manageable routine. Here's how busy moms can make it happen

Household Chores - Get Job Done Right

Encouraging your children to pitch in around the house helps them as much as it helps you. Kids expected to do their fair share tend to develop a sense of accomplishment and pride. They also learn how to handle responsibility. The key is to start early -- and to be patient. Ready to get started? Follow these five pointers for putting your kids to work

Put the Brakes on Watching TV

It's no secret that most kids watch too much television. For years, psychologists and pediatricians have sounded alarms that excessive television time contributes to an array of modern childhood problems -- from obesity to a failure to develop new interests. The good news is: If you start early, you can raise kids with a balanced and appropriate TV diet. Here's how

How to Bring out Your Kids Best Behavior

If you're the parent of a perfect child -- one that never whines, argues, lies or misbehaves -- this article isn't for you. But if your child is guilty of any (or all) of the above, don't despair. He's just doing what most kids do. So how do you go about changing his negative behavior? Use positive reinforcement. Here, some tools you can use to bring out the best in your child

Teenagers Testing My Patience

Parenting, my husband tells anyone who will listen, is the last stand of the amateur. This rings particularly true when children pass through the fun house known as adolescence. No matter how patient or strict or understanding parents try to be, the teenage years test our mettle and our sanity. We're suddenly stupid beyond our years, an embarrassment to the family

Moms: Stop Kids Fears Before They Start

Sometimes a small concern can quickly escalate into feelings of real fear. If this sounds familiar, there are steps you can take to avoid making yourself sick with worry -- for your sake and your child's. Check out these strategies for managing fears that come with being the No. 1 caretaker for your child's health.

Journal Writing New Kind of Prose Just for Parents

Setting aside time to sit down and write may seem like an impossible luxury. But carving out just 15 minutes every few days to jot down thoughts in your journal writing, frustrations and dreams offers unexpected rewards. All you need is paper and a pen (although you might prefer a computer or a bound blank book) and a sliver of time. Write on!

Games for Building Better Family Bonds

Your typical afternoon probably goes like this: Pick up kids from school; shuttle to soccer, music class and dance lessons; head to grocery store; get back home to make dinner. You probably wouldn't classify this as quality time. But who's to say that everyday experiences can't turn into special moments? And what better way to infuse fun than with these kid-friendly games

De-stress Your Mornings

For most moms, mornings are a mad dash to get everyone up, dressed and out the door -- hopefully with some breakfast in them. But the a.m. rush hour doesn't have to be so hectic. Here, solutions for simpler, saner mornings

Battling Over Bedtimes? Not Anymore

When it's time to brush their teeth and go to bed, many kids go into meltdown mode. They refuse to put on pajamas, plead for 'just one more story' and get up at least 10 times after they're put to bed. Sound familiar? Follow these steps for combating bedtime bummers and put more ease into your z's.

Giving Kids a Creative Edge

Creative and artistic experiences help kids express their feelings and come up with new ideas and ways to solve problems. Studies show that involvement in the arts boosts test scores and promotes academic achievement. You can get your child's creative juices flowing at home with basic art supplies and the right attitude. Bring out the creative genius in your children with these simple tips.

4 Ways to Make Dinnertime Work

When you arrive home after a long workday, your mind is on your family ... plus the stack of bills to pay, the pile of laundry to do and the list of phone calls to return. But dinner? It's tough to imagine how you're going to make this meal happen at all, let alone make it healthy, tasty and maybe even fun. But believe it or not, you can. Here's how

Sibling Warfare? Stay Neutral

When your kids practically come to blows over which one got more cream cheese on their bagel, you know you've got a serious case of sibling rivalry. It's likely you also know that there's no avoiding it. But while you may not be able to keep the peace between your kids, there are things you can do to squash the squabbling.

Raise a Smart Spender

Most kids love the holidays -- and all the giving and getting that goes with them. So why not tap into that enthusiasm for a quick lesson in money management? If you want to teach kids that buying decisions should involve time to think, holiday shopping is the perfect moment. Here are six lessons you can start teaching right now

Money for Something?

Certainly, kids shouldn't be paid every time they put a dish in the dishwasher. But there are chores, tasks and jobs that require extra effort and time. And in this culture, money is the best thing we have to acknowledge our kids' contribution when they take them on according to Peter L. Sheras. Here, some primo projects for teens and preteens

Sick-day Strategies for Keeping Kids Entertained

'Mommy, I don't feel good.' Sound familiar? It's the call of an ill child who's stuck in bed. It breaks your heart, but there are plenty of things you can do. Experts say the best course of action includes activities that are low-key and keep a child busy without wearing her out. Here are 11 comforting and clever ways to help kids have fun while they recover.

Sync With Your Spouse on Discipline Style

Is your wife a strict disciplinarian, while you prefer to let things slide? Is your husband a yeller, while you are an 'inside voice' kind of mom? When you have different parenting styles, it can often feel like you're at odds with your spouse. Here are strategies from Harvey Karp, M.D. for navigating this common parenting conundrum.

What Kind of Parent Are You?

For decades, pop psych has embraced the premise that there are three basic parenting styles: authoritarian, permissive, and last but not least, authoritative. The authoritative approach -- a combination of no-nonsense limit-setting with understanding and concern -- which experts say is ideal. Not sure where you fit in? Check out these scenarios

Chaos Reigns When College Kids Come Home

I believe in miracles, in sobering transformations and life-changing experiences. But maybe I've been reading too much fiction. Consider my latest encounter with reality: I sent my 18-year-old off to college. Now he has returned, for the holidays, a 19-year-old with 'college dorm' experience. Which is to say he has acquired some interesting habits

It's Good, Clean Fun And It Rocks

Oh, my, how those girls love their soaps! They sing to the bars, take them on outings and, when it's time to go night-night, tuck them in a necktie gift box I've labeled the soap dorm.

Parents Influence Kids' Relationship With Food

In today's world of fast and convenient food, many people have disordered eating. The evidence of obesity, anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and an obsession with dieting is proof we aren't healthy eaters. The problem is many of the people with unhealthy relationships to food are parents, and that makes them role models for their children.

Parenting - Spanking Causes More Harm as Children Get Older

Spanking is a huge hot-button issue for parents. Many psychologists say that spanking or any other physical discipline harms children and their relationship with their parents. But quite a few parents disagree, and some experts do, too.

Bridging the Generation Gap Has Gone Too Far

A Pew Research Center study earlier this summer found that while two-thirds of Americans 16 and older saw an age divide, respondents didn't believe it caused a lot of problems in their families or society. The generational squabble, the report states, "is a much more subdued affair than the one that raged in the 1960s."