Parents often struggle to distinguish between normal variations in behavior and actual behavioral problems. In truth, the line between what is considered normal and abnormal behavior is often blurred—more a matter of degree and expectations than a clear-cut difference. This is partly because “normal” behavior depends on a child’s developmental stage, which can vary widely […]
Strong families provide children with a safe and supportive environment where they can be themselves and discover who they are. Feeling secure and loved gives children the confidence to explore, take risks, and learn new things. With the reassurance of family support, they’re better equipped to handle challenges and bounce back from setbacks. […]
How you communicate shapes your child’s relationships with others. As a parent, you model verbal, nonverbal, and listening skills every day—through your words, tone, and actions. How Kids Learn to Communicate Children learn by watching and listening. A simple “Good job!” or a nod teaches them how to express themselves. […]
Those of us who grew up with siblings know how frustrating they could be. Now, as adults with children of our own, we’re watching our kids go through the same challenges that come with having siblings. As parents, we gain a new perspective on what our own parents endured—and a clearer understanding of just how […]
As you may know, babies don’t sleet through the night (for good reason); however you may not know, especially as a new parent, that your child may go through sleep regression during several stages in their life. One of the stages being the toddler sleep regression; you know, just when you thought you could finally […]
The short answer is “No”, you can’t spoil your infant. There’s a reason babies cry as much as they do; it’s their main (and mostly) only way they can communicate their needs. Babies cry for a number of reasons; they’re hungry, tired, overstimulated, and sometimes babies just cry even if you’ve done […]
Raising children can be one of the most fulfilling things you can do in your life; while simultaneously being one of the most frustrating, infuriating and hair pulling experience you will ever come across. Build Your Child’s Self-Esteem Boosting a child’s self-esteem starts in infancy; to help build it here are some tips: […]
Sparkler chatted with Shenell Samuels — a mom of a five-year-old with autism who is also a teacher in a school readiness program in Hartford who serves students with autism and other diagnoses — to share her experience and insights related to autism. Could you tell us a little bit about your son? My […]
Sometimes going to the Doctor’s can be scary, especially when there’s talk about a shot or having to undergo a non-routine procedure (blood work, x-ray, CT scan, etc.). Kids can feel overwhelmed in the Doctor’s office; it’s a (relatively) new space, there are people they don’t know and tools/machines that they have no idea what […]
Children typically learn how to lie around two years old; it’s at this point that they have learned that you can’t watch them every second of the day, which they will take full advantage of. As children get older they learn how to mask their facial expressions and tone of voice in order to better […]
