Every kid complains of excessive homework, but these days many parents have joined the chorus of “More may not be better”. We’ve all become slaves to the prevailing notion that the primary focus of childhood should be getting top grades, taking AP classes, and building your college résumé while ignoring skills like social-emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and the arts. Grade school has … [Read more...]
Homework, chores, routines: Top 4 tips on how to not mess up the school year
August 14, 2017 by Leave a Comment
The 1st day of school is upon us once again, bursting with tears from kids and whoops of joy from parents. Parents and kids will be faced with the daunting task of addressing agreements about school year routines including homework, chores, and schedules. The following are my top four ways to get the year off on the right foot. Family meetings: Have a family meeting to decide together, as a … [Read more...]
8 reasons to not worry about 13 Reasons Why
May 12, 2017 by 4 Comments
When it comes to TV shows like 13 Reasons Why, don’t be afraid and reactive; be present and proactive. Working with girls for over 30 years and having read a lot of history books has given me a different perspective than most people when it comes to teen issues like sexuality, grades, or the latest hot topic to arouse angst; in this case, the TV series 13 Reasons Why. For those of you who … [Read more...]
Simon Sinek’s millennial paradox: He’s making matters worse!
March 10, 2017 by 1 Comment
Simon Sinek’s solution to the problem’s facing millennials in the workplace (Sinek video)is a repeat of what got them there in the first place. While I concur with Sinek about the challenges employers face in dealing with this young workforce, his placing the onus of responsibility on companies is misplaced and apt to make matters worse. Top 500 business owners and CEO’s I have spoken with all … [Read more...]
Cannabis conundrum: Are we ruining a generation of teenagers?
January 26, 2017 by 2 Comments
The ‘60’s and 70’s were the hay day for drug and alcohol usage by teenagers. Today, cigarette and alcohol use by teenagers are at their lowest levels since 1975. Marijuana is the most common illicit drug used in the United States by teens as well as adults. A survey of drug, alcohol, and cigarette use among teens found that past-month marijuana use for 10th and 12th graders has stayed relatively … [Read more...]
Don’t allow overzealous youth coaches to rule your life
December 1, 2016 by 1 Comment
Parents are giving youth sports coaches way too much power over the lives of their children and families. Overuse injuries, overtraining, and burnout among child and adolescent athletes are a growing problem. Single-sport, year-round training and competition is becoming more and more common, as well as weekend long athletic tournaments that leave little down time for the child. Parents, kids, and … [Read more...]
Mobile devices are killing relationships and deep conversations
November 25, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Is technology ruining your relationships? Is your constant need to check texts and social media hurting the depth and empathy in conversations with friends and spouses? Based on recent research, whether you are talking about friendship, dating, marriage, or parenting children, the answer is yes and yes. One report showed that the mere presence of mobile devices can have negative effects on … [Read more...]
Vicious politicians model shameful leadership for children
November 3, 2016 by 1 Comment
Throughout this election season, our children have frequently witnessed adults behaving badly. They have seen innumerable occurrences of disrespect and incivility, and scant few adults modeling true strength and leadership styles. Let me offer two stories that exemplify the best in human character. An old Zen master was talking to a group of his students when an angry warrior confronted him … [Read more...]
Do you really want your child to become President of the US?
October 13, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Becoming President of the United States used to be one of parent’s highest aspirations for their children, but I’m not so sure that remains true today. The hostility and disrespect amongst politicians and voters these days is a turnoff to most young people who might have an interest in serving in this way. In the current environment, how can we best educate our kids about politics and … [Read more...]
Stop trying to keep up with the Jones’ children!
September 21, 2016 by Leave a Comment
I hear two main fears coming from parents today: the first is that their children are going to get behind, and the second is anxiety about how to best prepare kids for such an uncertain future. These fears are behind why we over schedule, overindulge, and push for perfectionism. The result is kids who are spoiled and stressed out, and families who are out of balance. “American children are … [Read more...]
