Children learn by example. Parents can tell their children all manner of “dos” and “don’ts,” but what they learn is what they see parents do. Most children have learned how to lie by age 3 and are lying several times a day by age 6. Parents may actually encourage their children to lie by telling them to […]
Help Your Child Develop Healthy Ambitions
On America’s Got Talent last night an energetic young lady commanded the stage. Full of enthusiasm, this talented 8-year old exuded self-confidence and charisma as she sang and danced across the stage in front of a cheering audience. After her performance, one judge gently suggested that while she showed a lot of stage presence, singing […]
Preschoolers Can Suffer Depression
Children as young as 3 can suffer bouts of chronic clinical depression, a new study has found. It’s normal for preschoolers to have an occasional temper tantrum or moody day, but they usually bounce back, quickly returning to their normal, happy demeanor. When young children don’t resume normal play and activities or appear sad during […]
Sense of Fatalism Encourages Risky Behavior in Teens
A surprising number of teens expect to die young. In a seven-year study of 20,000 teens in grades 7 through 12, 15% felt it was highly likely that they would die before they reached their 35th birthday. Published in the July issue of Pediatrics, the unexpected results have caused researchers at the University of Minnesota to […]
Couch Time Causes Insomnia in Children
Many school-age children experience trouble falling asleep. As many as 16% of parents report having problems getting their children to fall sleep at night. Researchers say the solution could be as simple as getting more physical exercise during the day. The amount of physical activity children receive during the day plays an important role in childhood […]
Preparing Your Child for Summer Camp
Sleepover camp is a major childhood rite of passage. For many children it’s their first experience being away from parents and home. The familiar people, surroundings and activities that anchor life and provide belonging and stability are suddenly gone. While some children thrive in new environments and find making friends and trying new activities exciting, […]