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 […]
For many children entering kindergarten, this is their first experience in a school environment. Meanwhile, our Pre-K friends are eagerly stepping into another exciting new school year. While this time is filled with excitement for some, many kindergarteners may face initial challenges as they adjust to longer days, a more structured curriculum, and time spent […]
Whether you’re ready or not, school is right around the corner and prepping your preschooler for their first day of preschool can be a daunting task. Your child may feel both excited and nervous about starting preschool. Let’s try to ease your little one’s mixed feelings, with these tips: Before School Starts Go […]
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 […]
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 […]
Summer is fast approaching and with it comes your kids complaining of being bored and having nothing to do. Meanwhile, your to do list is just as long or longer than ever. So, here are a few free/low cost activities and ideas to (hopefully) keep the kids occupied for a little bit. Go […]
Initiating toilet training can be especially difficult for parents of children with special needs, but when those children understand what they need to do, parents are often overcome with a sense of joy as it means that their child’s development is progressing. Potty training neurotypical children can be difficult enough, but potty training a child […]
I don’t think that there is a single parent out there that has not felt a profound love for their toddler while also feeling like wanting to rip their hair out, out of frustration. Even the sweetest of the sweetest toddlers often know how to press our buttons as they explore and test the boundaries […]
Spending quality time together is a valuable gift that strengthens family bonds and fosters belonging and security. Research shows that strong family connections lead to higher well-being in children, better behavior, enhanced academic performance, and improved parent-child communication. Healthy relationships are key indicators of a child’s happiness, and intentional effort is often needed to nurture […]
