Parenting is a year-round process. However, we found that summertime seemed to be a really productive and effective time in our parenting. Maybe it was because many of the school year obligations and hectic schedules got dialed back and the excitement of sunshine, family vacations and barbecues filled our home. Whatever the reason, we used our summertime excitement as a special time of the year to “super charge” some of our parenting initiatives while enjoying [...]
The tragic STEM school shooting here in Colorado fills us at OneFamily with a sense of urgency. We totally get the fear that this seemingly senseless act has caused parents. We don’t want to be just one more shrill voice calling for someone else to DO SOMETHING. We feel the urgency to do what we already do – support, encourage, and sustain parents in all the topics of parenting life. And, unfortunately, this has become [...]
Potential. Although we have a vague idea of what unlocked potential might mean, it is very clear what locked potential looks like - An intelligent teen that struggles with emotional instability; a gifted athlete who lacks motivation to try; a talented musician short on courage to perform; a disabled child who needs special attention. These types of examples create frustration for us observers who can envision what a joyous life they could have if they [...]
There are a million YouTube clips showing babies, toddlers, young children and tweens imitating adult behavior, speech and attitudes. While some of these clips are cute or even hilarious to watch, some are very inappropriate when you consider the child’s age. It makes you wonder if some people are not aware that it’s their own behavior that’s being imitated. Lis and Dave addressed the issue of role modeling and shared some terrific insights on how [...]
What is a daily occurrence that happens between us as parents and our children that plays a significant role in their development and maturity that, if we knew we were underperforming, we’d change immediately? At or With? There is an immense difference in effective communication when mom or dad attempts to connect with a child with something of value – instruction, love, corrective discipline, or just conversation; versus when they read from whatever script exists in [...]
Parenting in the Digital Age can be challenging to navigate. In the first two parts of this series, our intention was to give you an overall understanding of the issues that come with technology and help you form a clear perspective to manage it thoughtfully in your home. This week we offer 3 areas, with specific tools and resources, to consider when implementing technology strategies and plans in your home. Communication is critical and must [...]
Last week in our Playing with Fire letter, we highlighted three areas that Moms and Dad should have awareness and understanding as they parent in the Digital Age. Health Effects – Brain Development, Melatonin & Dopamine Safety Issues – Cyber Bullying, Identify Theft, Online Predators Behavior Complications – Moods, Empathy & Relationships The research and information in these areas provides you with knowledge you need to form a healthy perspective without fearing the challenges that [...]
Do you have a 4 year old that uses a tablet or 13 year old that is glued to their phone? If so, you have a Screenager! A Screenager is any toddler, child or teen that actively uses digital media or technology. And while there are many wonderful aspects of our Digital Age, there are also many challenges that come with it! Over the next three weeks, our goal is to equip and encourage you [...]
Every one of us has been on the receiving end of being wronged, injured, bumped and bruised physically, emotionally, and psychologically. Alas, we have all too many times been on the giving end of causing harm or offense in some way, large or small, by accident or on purpose, thereby injuring a relationship. That’s just the way of it – Life doesn’t allow us to progress very far without reconciling when we cause a break [...]
Have you ever been asked a question about the very thing you just communicated and you can tell your message is not getting through? We’ve all been there and it can be frustrating. Active listening may be a “blind spot” for those we are speaking with and for us as the listener as well. If you’re honest, when was the last time you intentionally listened in order to comprehend meaning, to show love and honor [...]