When parents think of the things we’re grateful for, our kids generally make the top of the list. That said, when your kids are noisily begging you to eat the snack you are in the middle of making, or when you notice the “creative” way in which they’ve taken a ballpoint pen to the couch…
FAMILY TRAVEL: Cruises Are Back!
It was a sound that I had been dreaming about for several years — the blast of a ship’s horn in New York’s harbor. Best of all, I was on the ship (Norwegian Cruise Line’s wonderfully named Joy) and heard the horn up close. This blast signaled the beginning of a long-awaited Atlantic cruise and a…
Cursive Handwriting: Outdated or Relevant?
I watched my daughter try to sign her name just above the signature line. She looked at me a little lost. I felt sorry for her and frustrated that she had not been prepared for something so simple. Cursive hasn’t been taught in my kids’ district in years. They had become whizzes on computers, but…
7 Free Ways to Create a Memorable Family Christmas
I’d like to say that December only brings cozy opportunities for family bonding and reflecting on the meaning of the season. The reality is, however, that we are bombarded with long lists of things to do. And the list is only part of the problem. The tightened purse strings make it feel even more difficult…
Speak Your Child’s Love Language
Growing up feeling loved helps children overcome many obstacles. It contributes to a feeling of well-being that will help them excel in school, friendships, and all other areas of their lives. It even helps when it comes to being disciplined. “Often, parents assume that their kids just ‘know’ they love them, or that saying ‘I…
How to Survive a Snow Day
There is a rumbling that occurs with certain weather patterns. This one does not come from the sky. This one starts with our kids. It’s the sounds of kids sharing the possibility of snow. Often, you can hear it start with the rumors at school that make it impossible for teachers to get through a…
SINGLE PARENTING: Dating Yourself as a Single Parent
I haven’t decided if I like the month of February anymore. It was something of a given when I was married and I expected the flowers and chocolates from my then husband, but I’m not sure I really like it anymore. Now that I’m divorced, it’s just me and the kids. Every year that I’ve…
Creative and Fun Ways for Kids & Grandparents to Connect
There is something special about the relationship between kids and their grandparents. I still remember pulling up to McDonald’s with my grandfather. He would take his leather change purse out of his pocket and count exact change for his cup of coffee. He always knew exactly how much it would be. Our trips weren’t fancy….
Spring Break for the Single Mom
When I think about Spring Break, I tend to think about all of the things my kids will be doing and how I am going to keep them busy while I’m at work. I never used to stress about this when I was married because I was a stay-at-home mom. Now that I am a…
FAMILY TRAVEL: Toronto – Western New York Family Magazine
Toronto is back and the welcome mat is out for all! All COVID border restrictions are long gone. Thanks to a most favorable exchange rate for American visitors, a weekend in this world class city is very doable. There are new family-friendly attractions, as well as the old favorites, that beckon all ages. If there…