This piece discusses the diagnosis dilemma and special concerns for girls on the spectrum. I wrote this with National Autism Awareness Month in mind (April); however, this article would be a great fit for any issue focused on children with disabilities. I included interviews and conference statements from Suzanne Gunther, a mother of a seventeen-year-old daughter with Asperger's, Tony Attwood, PhD, a world renowned expert and author of several books on the subject, including The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome, and Valerie Paradiz, PhD, the developer of Integrated Self Advocacy ISA (a curriculum and training series for educators and therapists) and author of the widely acclaimed Elijah's Cup: A Family's Journey into the Community and Culture of High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's Syndrome.

Most cruise lines today offer something for everyone. While Grandma plays bingo, Mom and Dad can attend a wine tasting and the kids can go rock climbing. Even if folks have cruised before, there are some things they should familiarize themselves with before they take the kids along. This piece offers numerous tips for cruising with the entire family and would make a great addition to a travel pull-out section or to a winter issue when many are thinking of travel plans. There is a suggested sidebar included.

It's unfortunate, but parents of gifted kids are often left to their own devices in finding resources for their children. Even though schools have the best intentions, these kids are often left behind. Teachers are not trained to differentiate curriculum for gifted learners, and federal and state money is only appropriated for struggling students. For years the system has failed these kids. Parents must seek their own resources, enroll their children in extracurricular programs, and find mentors for their kids. This piece explains giftedness, provides resources for parents, and offers suggestions for parents about how to navigate their child's school system.

There are many days that I am overwhelmed...stuck with no carpool, but two places to get to at the same time, laundry piled to the ceiling, groceries flung on the counter yet unpacked...when I think of parents with large families. You know, those brave souls who somehow found the strength and energy to raise four, five or even more children. How do they do it? Do parents of large families have a key to a secret code that the rest of us missed out on? I've interviewed parents of large families to find out their secrets. Their solutions for storage, saving money at the stores, and parenting different personalities can be adopted by all families - both large and small. This article is universal and would fit well in a May issue (Mother's Day), or any issue focusing on sibling or family relationships.

I remember the day quite vividly. It was a crisp September morning back in 1974. This was the morning my mother announced I could walk to school on my first day of fifth grade. For kids in my old neighborhood, being allowed to walk to school was a rite of passage - an intangible ladder rung on that uphill climb to full-blown independence. Today, walking to school can still be a healthy alternative to riding the bus for those students who live close enough to their school. Childhood obesity is becoming an epidemic and walking to school can provide a daily exercise routine for students.

Some kids think standing up in front of the class is a cinch. However, for many others, speaking in front of a room full of peers is worse than getting a tooth pulled without Novocaine. Some even flat out refuse to do it! The most common form of Social Phobia is public speaking anxiety. In addition to the emotional aspects of public speaking anxiety, there are often physical symptoms as well. This piece includes tips for parents so they can help their children through this common fear. A suggested sidebar with additional resources for students is included.

This children's health piece includes comments from the mother of five-year-old, Amanda (who is a child living with the disease). It discusses risk factors, warning signs, treatments, and the daily struggles of those living with type 1 diabetes. It also contains important information for parents who have a diabetic child entering school. There is a suggested sidebar which lists additional resources and places readers can go to find local support groups, camps, and health care information. This piece would fit well in an issue focusing on childhood diseases, or one with an editorial focus on children's health in general.

Many people think they've lost their "window of opportunity" to visit Disney World with their kids because their "older kids" are no longer anxious to be photographed with Mickey or to dine with Goofy. This is simply not the case, and why I wrote this piece. Disney World has a lot to offer the preteen and teen crowd. Yes, it is a different family experience, but one that is definitely worth it! This piece would fit well in a family travel guide, a winter travel issue when families plan warm weather vacations, or during the holidays when Disney is adorned with spectacular decorations and brimming with holiday festivities.

Many students and their families find college preparation to be a daunting process. Admission to college can also be extremely competitive which often leaves students asking, "What on earth are they looking for?" In order to avoid a lot of frustration and disappointment, students should start planning for their future by eighth or ninth grade. This piece explores the kinds of things college admissions offices look for. A sidebar with additional resources is also included.

A child's difficulty with listening, following directions, interpreting oral information and other receptive language problems could be attributed to many different disabilities. One of these is called auditory processing disorder (APD). APD has been misunderstood and misinterpreted by many. This is because the label APD has been applied (often incorrectly) to a wide variety of difficulties and disorders. As a result, there are some who question the existence of APD as a distinct diagnostic entity and others who assume that the term APD is applicable to any child who has difficulty listening or understanding spoken language. Therefore, understanding the difference between APD and other disorders that also affect language skills is imperative. This is an informative piece for parents to help them understand this often "misunderstood" disability. A sidebar with additional resources is included.

This piece blends humor, reality and tips about how to take a breath during the frenzy of the holiday season. Along with the regular work day and ensuing jaunts to karate, gymnastics and clarinet lessons, most are also attending holiday concerts, holiday plays and holiday parties. Once you figure in time to shop, wrap, bake, clean and send holiday cards (oh...you're not doing that?), you have exactly two hours left in your day for sleep - brushing teeth not included! This is a great "holiday filler" piece.

"Why does it seem that the first born is always the luckiest in life? I'll tell you why - because it's in the cards. The first born always draws four of a kind, while the second child draws a lousy pair of Jacks." This essay is about a second born child's view of herself and her place in the world. It would fit well into any relationships, family, or point of view section such as: A Mom's View, Family Dynamics, Parents' Opinions, or Musings. This piece also suggests ways parents can help each child feel special no matter where his or her place is on the family tree.

You're very likely to be on the phone engrossed in an important conversation when a tug at your arm or a voice of desperation pleads for your attention. A large ocean could probably be filled with the number of parents who have been interrupted while on the phone. I personally have gotten so frustrated with my children interrupting me that I've threatened, "Don't try to talk to me when I'm in a conversation with another adult unless you're bleeding profusely or the house is burning down!" This piece discusses techniques parents can use to teach their children restraint and the art of graceful interruption.

A huge number of our mothers, sisters, and female friends are silently suffering from depression. That's because depression is hard to talk about. Frequently, women who suffer from depression perceive their plight as a necessary part of womanhood. This is a comprehensive piece about depression - specifically in women. It contains interviews with nationally recognized psychologists who specialize in depression. Readers will find information on how to recognize the warning signs and how to get help. A sidebar is included with this piece.

Sleepovers can be overwhelming and exhausting. Let's face it. They can be a downright nightmare. It will take quite a bit of planning and forethought, but both the parent AND her child's friends can have a positive experience if the party is carefully planned before the first excited guest appears at the door. This article contains rules and tips for planning a stress free sleepover party. It also contains a list of tips JUST FOR KIDS offered BY KIDS from across the country - this is intended to be a sidebar (or "cut out" section). A recipe for a "sleepover theme" cake and a list of books and websites offering additional ideas is also included with the piece.

This article differs from many on the subject in that it focuses ONLY on the older child. After all, this is when thumbsucking becomes the most problematic. For the school-age child or preteen who continues to suck her thumb, the habit has become a crutch. It is no longer a mere reflex. At this point in a child's development, breaking the habit will take patience, understanding and a joint effort by both the child and her parents to eliminate the prolonged habit. This article would fit well in a February issue (National Children's Dental Health Month), an issue focusing on childhood habits/behaviors or an issue focusing on "problem solving" for parents. A sidebar containing age-appropriate literature and a link to ThumbGuard is included.

Did you know that babies are communicating their wants and needs before they reach twelve months of age? Yes, babies are "talking," not through verbal speech, but via sign language. Sign language has long been an alternative for deaf children and those who are hard of hearing. However, in the 1980s, important research on the use of sign language and the subsequent verbal language development of those infants provided a new perspective on the use of sign language with hearing babies. Studies showed that the parents of signing babies had less frustration, better communication, and a stronger parent-child bond with their infants than parents of non-signing babies. This piece includes a sidebar listing books, programs and DVDs which are available for those who would like to try "signing" with their baby.

The overprotective parent "coddles" her child when she believes that completely shielding her child from inevitable problems and disappointments is a necessary part of parenting. Subsequently, the coddled child will learn to depend on others to rescue him from life's calamities, instead of having the will and know-how to rescue himself. Coddlers step in to negotiate for their child instead of letting the child work it out for himself. They intervene, regardless of the severity of the problem, (whether it is an issue with a teacher, peer or another adult). The following experts were interviewed for the piece: Lauren Solotar, Ph.D., Chief Psychologist and Senior Vice President of clinical services with the renowned May Institute, Psychologist Erik Fisher, Ph.D., author of The Art of Managing Everyday Conflict, and Mary Ann LoFrumento, M.D., a pediatrician and creator of "Simply Parenting" (a program designed to end parents' anxieties and bring parenting back to basics).

Remember those old photo albums your grandmother used to pull out on occasion? They contained black pages with photo mounting corners. The black and white photos were probably yellowed with age, and the inscription beneath might have been a "penciled in" date. For the most part, these albums were simply a collection of photographs - a series of snapshots from the past. What we now consider to be "scrapbooking" is the hobby of creatively arranging photos, various memorabilia and fanciful text on a page. This article is a "how-to" piece containing time-saving and money-saving tips. A sidebar is included which lists addtional resources for the hobbyist.

Many of us have been there. You're in aisle twenty-two of the grocery store and your toddler decides it's time to get out of the cart. When you don't oblige, she starts to scream at decibels heard by all, including the man in the bread section who dons a hearing aide. At home you have a handle on your tot's occasional tantrums. However, the public domain is another issue entirely. You would like to just ignore your child because you've developed the patience of Jobe since entering the world of parenthood, but those around you feel differently. They stare as though they've never seen a child have a tantrum. What's a parent to do?

Many youngsters don't learn to balance a checkbook or to save money long-term until it's absolutely necessary - and some never do! When children are taught to apply these skills early, they become proficient at money management by the time they reach adulthood. Most parents and teachers agree that the best way to teach a child a skill AND to have it stick is via "hands on" experiences when children learn by actually going through a process. The following programs take advantage of this "hands on" approach: Washington Mutual School Savings Program, National Teach Children to Save Day, The Stock Market Game.

Moving is as hard for kids as it is for adults - maybe even more so. It's not so much the particulars which accompany Moving Day, but the fear of the unknown once you've gotten where you're going. Many parents find that unpacking or finding a new pediatrician is the least of their worries. The best you can do is to make things as comfortable and familiar as possible for each family member. This piece differs from others on the subject of moving children in that it focuses on helping your children adjust to their new environment (or the "post" move). I've included a suggested sidebar which lists age-specific reading materials to help kids cope.

Most parents hope to give their son or daughter something very special for high school or college graduation. Yes, a new car or big check will garner gleeful reactions. However, a gift that takes eighteen years or more to create, and one which will last a lifetime, will be cherished more than any big ticket item. This is a how-to piece for creating a "Memory Treasure Chest" or "Memories Box" for one's child. This piece will work well in a special Baby Guide, a graduation issue, or at the holidays, when parents become acutely aware of their children growing up too fast.

This piece differs from other articles on autism spectrum disorders in that it focuses on the "education of children" with Asperger's. After speaking with countless families about their greatest frustrations and concerns, I learned that it is in the area of education and placement that most seem overwhelmed and ill advised. Although special education services have come a long way, traditional public and private schools are sometimes failing to provide children with Asperger's Syndrome the educational support they deserve. The attached piece, "Educating the Child with Asperger's" is an in-depth article discussing the best classroom environment and placement for this growing population of students in our schools. I have had the pleasure of interviewing the following experts for the piece: (1) Robert Putnam, Ph.D.: Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Senior Vice President of Consultation and Positive Schools at the May Institute. (2) Valerie Paradiz, Ph.D.: Author of the acclaimed Elijah's Cup (The Free Press, 2002) and Director of ASPIE (The School for Autistic Strength, Purpose, and Independence in Education in Boiceville, NY). (3) Kathleen Edwards, M.Ed.: A special education consultant and Director of Starpoint School at Texas Christian University.

I wouldn't consider myself a frequent flyer, but I've flown enough times to have occupied a seat across from an infant, precariously perched atop his mother's lap. Currently, parents traveling with children under two are not required to purchase a seat for their child in order to strap him into a child restraint system (CRS). On August 3rd, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) revisited Safety Recommendation A-95-51 which suggests that the FAA revise the Code of Federal Regulation (14 CFR) to require that all occupants be restrained during takeoff, landing, and turbulent conditions. This piece discusses those issues parents must consider (such as safety risks, high cost, discomfort to the baby and other passengers, and other inconveniences) when deciding whether to purchase a seat and use a CRS or to opt for "lap travel" if traveling by plane with their baby. This piece would work well in a holiday issue or travel issue when many families take advantage of visiting relatives while their children are off from school.

I think most reasonable human beings understand that wearing a tank top to school when it's forty-two degrees outside is not a good choice. My second grader, however, will find one thousand upside-down reasons for why she should wear the garment. Her mother knows that the reason for this particular struggle is the horse applique on the front - the one adorned with a beaded bridle. My daughter is a "clothes horse" in the literal sense, you see. She would wear a horse shirt each and every day for the rest of her natural life if I would allow it. This is a humorous, slice-of-life piece - good for a "Family Ties" type section.

Once you have that second child things change immensely. All of a sudden you are thrown into a world where your children scrutinize your handling of your other children like expert sleuths investigating high profile crimes. Your kids are looking for complete fairness - equal treatment or else! This article discusses fair and equal treatment issues that all parents who have more than one child have to face.

It probably takes the average elementary school age child fifteen minutes to wash up and get dressed (full shower not included). However, on a typical school morning, my children are not focused. They are playing with the dog, arguing about who gets the computer first when they return home, or splashing in the sink water and staring at themselves in the mirror. This piece contains tips about how to organize stressful mornings and to motivate the kids to get out to the bus on time. Over 100 moms from twenty states participated.

Children have been dealing with bullies for centuries. However, the idea that bullying is "just a part of growing up" or an inevitable condition of boyhood ("boys will be boys") is a prevailing, "laissez-faire" attitude that is slow to change. Too many school administrators are reluctant to hold perpetrators accountable, and some parents still consider bullying a part of growing up. Until parents, educators, and community leaders consider the issue of "bullying" a serious offense, children will continue to be injured physically and emotionally, bearing the negative effects of these injuries into adulthood. This piece suggests specific strategies parents, teachers and community leaders can use to diffuse this increasingly violent problem among our youth.

My husband and I have been part of two communities in two different states that some might say exemplify an atmosphere of "neighborhood spirit" that seems too often to be absent from communities because of today's fast-paced and hectic lifestyles. For those who wish to connect with their neighbors and become part of a "community" instead of simply being called neighbors due to proximity alone, planning an annual neighborhood party is a great way to get to know your neighbors on a personal level. This piece is divided into four sections: "Get Organized," "Get the Word Out," "Yum - Food!" and "Fun For All Ages." I suggest ideas for invitations, an "As We Grow" photo album (This is a memories scrapbook that is showcased at our parties - it's a great conversation piece!), a suggestion box and games and activities for all ages. I have photos available for this piece. A "sidebar" is included. This is a suggestion for a winter party idea (a dine-around).

Many young teens consider themselves too mature to attend camp. On the other hand, their parents may believe that summer camp is still a worthwhile venture considering the alternative - just hanging out all day. There is a solution to this dilemma. Young teens can participate in a CIT (Counselor In Training) program at many camps throughout the United States. A sidebar is included with this piece (a search for accredited CIT programs - localized for your state).

Do you have a Fisher-Price kitchen collecting dust balls in your basement? Does your son's closet explode with a myriad of long-lost game pieces and Tonka wheels each time you open the door to put away the laundry? Maybe your garage is filled with unwanted and outgrown children's items and you can no longer park there. Guess what? It is time to plan a garage sale. This piece focuses on tips for selling children's clothing and toys. It offers advice on how to advertise and how to display and price your items. It also lists safety tips and ideas to get the kids involved. A suggested sidebar lists general tips for the tag sale enthusiast.

I grew up with Bullmastiffs. So when the opportunity arose to adopt a four-month-old female, my husband and I jumped at the chance. At the time, my children were ages five and seven, so I knew it was a great time to get a pet. However, growing up with dogs does not prepare you for the responsibility of pet ownership - especially when you have kids. This article offers many tips for families thinking of purchasing a dog or for those who already own one. Its focus is the child-dog relationship. I discuss finding the right breed, precautions to take with babies and infants, and how to involve your kids in the physical care of your pet.

"Mom! I can't find my..." You fill in the blank. My daughter has been losing or forgetting SOMETHING several times a day since she has been able to pick things up and carry them off. I've recently garnered advice from the experts, hoping to encourage my daughter to become responsible for her own possessions. This article suggests that parents teach their children remembering strategies and organizational skills. The piece also offers some tips for the "morning routine" and discusses the benefits of allowing children to suffer consequences for their actions in order to become more responsible.

Nine and a half years ago, I left my teaching position at a community college to stay at home full time with my newborn son. Shortly afterward, we moved out of state. I had left my family and childhood friends to move to a state where I knew no one and had no connections. I yearned for some adult company during the day - another mom to share my joys and frustrations with. That first winter, however, the only adult conversation I had during daylight hours was with the checkout clerks at the supermarket. Most moms can feed an infant on the left and balance a toddler on the right while reading the morning paper. This does not mean that moms don't need help emotionally or physically from others. "Support Groups For Moms" lists and describes a variety of national and local support groups for mothers. This piece also includes a suggested sidebar.

Many parents struggle with the question, "Can we afford to raise our kids on one salary?" The answer can be "yes." This piece lists ten reasons why living on one salary can be affordable. It is written with the intent to help parents begin to assess their fiscal future as they consider going from a one to two salary household. This article does not advocate "staying home" as the BEST choice; it only helps those who feel that it may be the RIGHT choice for their family.

This essay reflects on the emotions I experienced when I sent my youngest child off to kindergarten. Most moms are surprised by the intense emotions they experience when they send their youngest to school full time. You expect to feel a sense of loss when the youngest goes off to college, but no one prepares you for the "first empty nest syndrome." This article is a perfect fit for a "back-to-school" issue, but it would also work well with a "mom's view" or similar column.

When acquaintances hear that I have an office at home, the typical response is, "You're living the good life!" After all, I don't have to fight traffic each morning, spend a small fortune on hosiery, or dodge casual office gossip. Instead, I make myself a cup of coffee after dropping the kids at the bus, and head upstairs to my comfortable and cozy domain, where I have seven hours of uninterrupted work time. Yeah, right! There seems to be an increase in parents who choose to work from home, and with today's advanced technology this is becoming an easier task. Working from a "home office" can be a convenient and rewarding experience for the whole family. Creating and sticking to a reasonable work schedule that allows for flexibility is paramount to achieving a successful "home office" environment.

When my son was five he learned to ride his bicycle without training wheels in a two-hour session with my husband over at our local park. Phew! I was relieved that this learning experience was tackled with ease. If my memory serves me well, my experience was quite different. I vaguely recall many bruises and a damaged self esteem. When my daughter became "of age," her attempts to ride her bike were much like mine. I thought she would never let us take the training wheels off. Learning to ride a "big bike" without the use of training wheels can be difficult for some children for a plethora of reasons. My article offers tips for parents to facilitate a painless and joyful experience.

When my daughter uttered her first word I was thrilled. I knew that the next several months would bring a litany of new phrases and humorous garble that would keep me entranced and captivated with each new syllable. I knew this because my son (who was three at the time) would ramble on as if mastering the English language was simply a ho-hum affair. But after those first few words things just didn't progress as I had expected. I was soon to learn that my daughter had severe expressive and receptive language delays. This article was written with the express purpose of helping parents who find themselves overcome with feelings of apprehension and helplessness when they find out that their child has a language disability. This piece differs from other articles that I've read on the subject in that it focuses on the parent's role - in other words, how parents can play an integral part in their child's therapy and recovery.

Too many of my friends have postponed spending the time and money to decorate their homes because they have young children. These same friends are amazed when they visit my home because I have taken the time to decorate - and my things have miraculously survived an onslaught of play dates and birthday parties! If you have a love of objects d'art and fine furnishings, you need not put your passion for decorating on hold until your kids enter college. My article offers readers many tips for family-friendly decorating.

Have you ever been in a restaurant trying to have an adult conversation when the three-year-old child in the booth behind you is pretending that the seat is a trampoline? I used to be appalled when parents allowed their children to behave like field mice in restaurants. Then...I had kids. This is an honest piece about the trials and tribulations of eating out with young children. It offers many tips for those parents who wish to venture out to service establishments with their kids. Don't let your "reservations" get in the way of having a pleasant outing with your family.

My son had a very difficult time learning to swim. It wasn't that he disliked being in the water. He loved to take baths and play in the swimming pool. However, he was unable to put his face in or submerge himself passed his waist. I tried a myriad of things to try to help him. Throughout my experience with my son I have spoken to many parents and swim instructors to get ideas. My article is broken up into three sections: "Prevention," "Go Slow" and "Be Positive." I believe that this piece can serve as a tool to help parents who are trying to deal with this fairly common childhood fear.

My daughter attended preschool gymnastics classes and it proved to be a very positive experience for her. I competed in gymnastics for nine years, and, when I couldn't get the sport out of my system, I continued on as a judge for another fifteen. As a level 10 USAG rated official, I attended the National Safety Certification Course (which I mention in my article) and I traveled to many parts of the country to judge gymnasts ages six through twenty-two. I have been exposed to the sport as an athlete, a professional and a mother of a gymnast. This article discusses everything from safety to choosing the right gym.

I was compelled to write this article because of my daughter's trepidation about going to the dentist. I have since learned many ways to help my children relax in the dentist's chair. I share my own ideas as well as expert advice about how to handle a fearful child in this situation. My article offers recommendations for both preschoolers and older children.

My son was spending too much time in front of the television screen, not because he was watching too many cartoons, but because I couldn't drag him away from the Nintendo machine. I know that I am not alone. Many of the moms I've talked to complain about the same thing. There is definitely a video game craze in this country and many kids have opted for this type of entertainment. This activity can be just as unhealthy as too much TV if the use of video games becomes an obsession and a child is no longer interested in other toys. My mistake was that I dealt with the problem too late and too drastically. I waited until the problem was out of control to make my big announcement: "No more Nintendo ever again! I'm throwing the thing out!" Fortunately, things calmed down and I was able to set some limits. Even if parents set firm limits with their children, however, it is still pertinent to find healthy alternatives to playing video games. This article speaks to both.

This article is based on the truly rewarding experience I have had volunteering in my children's classrooms over the years. I believe that my regular presence in school has shown my children that I care deeply about their education. My article offers ideas for parental involvement, even for those parents who work full time and cannot volunteer during school hours. It lists the many reasons why volunteering is truly beneficial for everyone involved (students, teachers and parents). It is my belief that the cooperative alliance of parents and teachers who work together as a team is a formula for success.

It happened when my son was about fourteen months old. We were taking our usual stroll around the neighborhood when we encountered a dog-sitter walking our neighbor's new terrier. The dog got excited and leaped into the stroller on top of my son and began to ferociously bark just inches from his face. He was not bitten, but his memory of the horrific experience would remain vivid for years to come. That day it took close to an hour to calm him down, but I would soon find that this was just the beginning of a long and painful saga. For years we were unable to visit friends who owned dogs, to have an uneventful trick or treating experience, or to go to a public beach or park without my son agonizing over the thought of having to be in close proximity to a dog. Working with your child to overcome an intense fear is never an easy task. This article gives parents ideas about how to help their child overcome his fear of dogs.

I have to admit that I was one of those mothers who compared the intellectual prowess of my preschooler to others his age, for I was constantly hoping that he would have a head start when he entered kindergarten. I realize now that putting too much pressure on a child to excel at such a vulnerable age can do more harm than good. Millions of parents are trying to keep up with our aggressive society and are pushing their preschoolers too much in the process. My article explains the problems that can occur when one tries to mold a "child scholar." It also offers specific examples about how to teach your child with positive results.

I had been living with "Whale's parents" for quite some time when I wrote this article. "Whale's parents" were my son's imaginary friends. I have since found out that imaginary friends are extremely commonplace and quite healthy as long as the child enjoys a variety of activities and relates well with his peers. Children who tend to adopt them are often social, creative, independent and cooperative.

She was going to arrive in thirty minutes and the anxiety was beginning to set in. I had made a dinner reservation to celebrate my husband's birthday, and had hired a seventeen-year-old to watch my kids. This would prove to be a nerve wracking evening until I settled in at the restaurant and realized I had some precious uninterrupted time with my husband. Many parents experience anxiety when they have to leave their child in someone else's care. However, there are many things you can do to prepare yourself and your precious little one for these brief and necessary separations.

The lamb was just one of many gifts that we received for our infant son. Dee, as my son named her, has been toted everywhere. There were several times that we had to backtrack twenty miles or so on road trips having left the pesky thing in a booth at some restaurant. Before I entered the world of parenthood, I never stopped to notice that hordes of toddlers had some ragged thing tucked under one arm as their mom held the other. I've since learned that experts often deem such special toys "comforters," and that toddlers who tote these objects are perfectly normal and healthy.

Sometimes parents are hesitant about planning a second child when their first has yet to reach the age of two. They foresee the difficulty in raising two children very close in age. However, the transition to double-diaper-changing is only a minor adjustment when you consider the wealth of challenges for parents who are about to enter the world of "parents of two." One of the imminent problems that parents encounter is how to help their oldest child (especially if this child is a toddler) cope with the arrival of a sibling. My article speaks to parents through the eyes of someone who has been there. My adoring son was not so pleased when my daughter first arrived home, even though he had seemed pleased with the "idea" all along.

When my son was born one of the first things I remember my husband saying was that two of his little toes were joined together on his left foot. Eleven months later we found ourselves facing an operation to have it fixed. Thousands of parents go through the stressful experience of preparing a small child for an operation, yet most never want to believe it will happen. Fortunately, my son's operation was relatively simple and most of the risk was inherent in the anesthesia administered prior to the operation. However, whether it's a trip to the emergency room because of a dog bite, or a major operation requiring a hospital stay, young children are better off when they are physically and mentally prepared for what is to come; and parents need to be just as prepared in order to be a calming influence for their child.

This piece discusses the diagnosis dilemma and special concerns for girls on the autism spectrum. I interviewed several experts for the piece including, Tony Attwood, PhD, a world renowned expert and author of several books on the subject, including The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome , Valerie Paradiz, PhD, the developer of Integrated Self Advocacy ISA (a curriculum and training series for educators and therapists who wish to help individuals with autism spectrum disorders) and author of the widely acclaimed Elijah's Cup: A Family's Journey into the Community and Culture of High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's Syndrome , and Suzanne Gunther, a mother of a seventeen-year-old daughter with Asperger's. I wrote this piece with National Autism Awareness Month in mind (April); however, this article would be a great fit for any issue focused on children with disabilities.

It's unfortunate, but parents of gifted kids are often left to their own devices in finding resources for their children. Teachers are not trained to differentiate curriculum for gifted learners in college, and federal and state money is only appropriated for struggling students. For years the system has failed these kids. Parents must seek their own resources, enroll their children in extracurricular programs, and find mentors for their kids. This piece explains giftedness, provides resources, and offers suggestions for parents about how to navigate their child's school system.

I remember the day quite vividly. It was a crisp September morning back in 1974. This was the morning my mother announced I could walk to school on my first day of fifth grade. For kids in my old neighborhood, being allowed to walk to school was a rite of passage - an intangible ladder rung on that uphill climb to full-blown independence. Today, walking to school can still be a healthy alternative to riding the bus for those students who live close enough to their school. Childhood obesity is becoming an epidemic and walking to school can provide a daily exercise routine for students.

Some kids think standing up in front of the class is a cinch. However, for many others, speaking in front of a room full of peers is worse than getting a tooth pulled without Novocaine. Some even flat out refuse to do it! The most common form of Social Phobia is public speaking anxiety. In addition to the emotional aspects of public speaking anxiety, there are often physical symptoms as well. This piece includes tips for parents so they can help their children through this common fear. A suggested sidebar with additional resources for students is included.

Many students and their families find college preparation to be a daunting process. Admission to college can also be extremely competitive which often leaves students asking, "What on earth are they looking for?" In order to avoid a lot of frustration and disappointment, students should start planning for their future by eighth or ninth grade. This piece explores the kinds of things college admissions offices look for. A sidebar with additional resources is also included.

Many youngsters don't learn to balance a checkbook or to save money long-term until it's absolutely necessary - and some never do! When children are taught to apply these skills early, they become proficient at money management by the time they reach adulthood. Most parents and teachers agree that the best way to teach a child a skill AND to have it stick is via "hands on" experiences when children learn by actually going through a process. The following programs take advantage of this "hands on" approach: Washington Mutual School Savings Program, National Teach Children to Save Day, The Stock Market Game.

This piece differs from other articles on autism spectrum disorders in that it focuses on the "education of children" with Asperger's. After speaking with countless families about their greatest frustrations and concerns, I learned that it is in the area of education and placement that most seem overwhelmed and ill advised. Although special education services have come a long way, traditional public and private schools are sometimes failing to provide children with Asperger's Syndrome the educational support they deserve. The attached piece, "Educating the Child with Asperger's" is an in-depth article discussing the best classroom environment and placement for this growing population of students in our schools. I have had the pleasure of interviewing the following experts for the piece: (1) Robert Putnam, Ph.D.: Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Senior Vice President of Consultation and Positive Schools at the May Institute. (2) Valerie Paradiz, Ph.D.: Author of the acclaimed Elijah's Cup (The Free Press, 2002) and Director of ASPIE (The School for Autistic Strength, Purpose, and Independence in Education in Boiceville, NY). (3) Kathleen Edwards, M.Ed.: A special education consultant and Director of Starpoint School at Texas Christian University.

It probably takes the average elementary school age child fifteen minutes to wash up and get dressed (full shower not included). However, on a typical school morning, my children are not focused. They are playing with the dog, arguing about who gets the computer first when they return home, or splashing in the sink water and staring at themselves in the mirror. This piece contains tips about how to organize stressful mornings and to motivate the kids to get out to the bus on time. Over 100 moms from twenty states participated.

Children have been dealing with bullies for centuries. However, the idea that bullying is "just a part of growing up" or an inevitable condition of boyhood ("boys will be boys") is a prevailing, "laissez-faire" attitude that is slow to change. Too many school administrators are reluctant to hold perpetrators accountable, and some parents still consider bullying a part of growing up. Until parents, educators, and community leaders consider the issue of "bullying" a serious offense, children will continue to be injured physically and emotionally, bearing the negative effects of these injuries into adulthood. This piece suggests specific strategies parents, teachers and community leaders can use to diffuse this increasingly violent problem among our youth.

This essay reflects on the emotions I experienced when I sent my youngest child off to kindergarten. Most moms are surprised by the intense emotions they experience when they send their youngest to school full time. You expect to feel a sense of loss when the youngest goes off to college, but no one prepares you for the "first empty nest syndrome." This article is a perfect fit for a "back-to-school" issue, but it would also work well with a "mom's view" or similar column.

This article is based on the truly rewarding experience I have had volunteering in my children's classrooms over the years. I believe that my regular presence in school has shown my children that I care deeply about their education. My article offers ideas for parental involvement, even for those parents who work full time and cannot volunteer during school hours. It lists the many reasons why volunteering is truly beneficial for everyone involved (students, teachers and parents). It is my belief that the cooperative alliance of parents and teachers who work together as a team is a formula for success.

I have to admit that I was one of those mothers who compared the intellectual prowess of my preschooler to others his age, for I was constantly hoping that he would have a head start when he entered kindergarten. I realize now that putting too much pressure on a child to excel at such a vulnerable age can do more harm than good. Millions of parents are trying to keep up with our aggressive society and are pushing their preschoolers too much in the process. My article explains the problems that can occur when one tries to mold a "child scholar." It also offers specific examples about how to teach your child with positive results.

I grew up with Bullmastiffs. So when the opportunity arose to adopt a four-month-old female, my husband and I jumped at the chance. At the time, my children were ages five and seven, so I knew it was a great time to get a pet. However, growing up with dogs does not prepare you for the responsibility of pet ownership - especially when you have kids. This article offers many tips for families thinking of purchasing a dog or for those who already own one. Its focus is the child-dog relationship. I discuss finding the right breed, precautions to take with babies and infants, and how to involve your kids in the physical care of your pet.

It happened when my son was about fourteen months old. We were taking our usual stroll around the neighborhood when we encountered a dog-sitter walking our neighbor's new terrier. The dog got excited and leaped into the stroller on top of my son and began to ferociously bark just inches from his face. He was not bitten, but his memory of the horrific experience would remain vivid for years to come. That day it took close to an hour to calm him down, but I would soon find that this was just the beginning of a long and painful saga. For years we were unable to visit friends who owned dogs, to have an uneventful trick or treating experience, or to go to a public beach or park without my son agonizing over the thought of having to be in close proximity to a dog. Working with your child to overcome an intense fear is never an easy task. This article gives parents ideas about how to help their child overcome his fear of dogs.

It's unfortunate, but parents of gifted kids are often left to their own devices in finding resources for their children. Teachers are not trained to differentiate curriculum for gifted learners in college, and federal and state money is only appropriated for struggling students. For years the system has failed these kids. Parents must seek their own resources, enroll their children in extracurricular programs, and find mentors for their kids. This piece explains giftedness, provides resources, and offers suggestions for parents about how to navigate their child's school system.

This children's health piece includes comments from the mother of five-year-old, Amanda (who is a child living with the disease). It discusses risk factors, warning signs, treatments, and the daily struggles of those living with type 1 diabetes. It also contains important information for parents who have a diabetic child entering school. There is a suggested sidebar which lists additional resources and places readers can go to find local support groups, camps, and health care information. This piece would fit well in an issue focusing on childhood diseases, or one with an editorial focus on children's health in general.

A child's difficulty with listening, following directions, interpreting oral information and other receptive language problems could be attributed to many different disabilities. One of these is called auditory processing disorder (APD). APD has been misunderstood and misinterpreted by many. This is because the label APD has been applied (often incorrectly) to a wide variety of difficulties and disorders. As a result, there are some who question the existence of APD as a distinct diagnostic entity and others who assume that the term APD is applicable to any child who has difficulty listening or understanding spoken language. Therefore, understanding the difference between APD and other disorders that also affect language skills is imperative. This is an informative piece for parents to help them understand this often "misunderstood" disability. A sidebar with additional resources is included.

You're very likely to be on the phone engrossed in an important conversation when a tug at your arm or a voice of desperation pleads for your attention. A large ocean could probably be filled with the number of parents who have been interrupted while on the phone. I personally have gotten so frustrated with my children interrupting me that I've threatened, "Don't try to talk to me when I'm in a conversation with another adult unless you're bleeding profusely or the house is burning down!" This piece discusses techniques parents can use to teach their children restraint and the art of graceful interruption.

This article differs from many on the subject in that it focuses ONLY on the older child. After all, this is when thumbsucking becomes the most problematic. For the school-age child or preteen who continues to suck her thumb, the habit has become a crutch. It is no longer a mere reflex. At this point in a child's development, breaking the habit will take patience, understanding and a joint effort by both the child and her parents to eliminate the prolonged habit. This article would fit well in a February issue (National Children's Dental Health Month), an issue focusing on childhood habits/behaviors or an issue focusing on "problem solving" for parents. A sidebar containing age-appropriate literature and a link to ThumbGuard™ is included.

Did you know that babies are communicating their wants and needs before they reach twelve months of age? Yes, babies are "talking," not through verbal speech, but via sign language. Sign language has long been an alternative for deaf children and those who are hard of hearing. However, in the 1980s, important research on the use of sign language and the subsequent verbal language development of those infants provided a new perspective on the use of sign language with hearing babies. Studies showed that the parents of signing babies had less frustration, better communication, and a stronger parent-child bond with their infants than parents of non-signing babies. This piece includes a sidebar listing books, programs and DVDs which are available for those who would like to try "signing" with their baby.

"Mom! I can't find my..." You fill in the blank. My daughter has been losing or forgetting SOMETHING several times a day since she has been able to pick things up and carry them off. I've recently garnered advice from the experts, hoping to encourage my daughter to become responsible for her own possessions. This article suggests that parents teach their children remembering strategies and organizational skills. The piece also offers some tips for the "morning routine" and discusses the benefits of allowing children to suffer consequences for their actions in order to become more responsible.

When my son was five he learned to ride his bicycle without training wheels in a two-hour session with my husband over at our local park. Phew! I was relieved that this learning experience was tackled with ease. If my memory serves me well, my experience was quite different. I vaguely recall many bruises and a damaged self esteem. When my daughter became "of age," her attempts to ride her bike were much like mine. I thought she would never let us take the training wheels off. Learning to ride a "big bike" without the use of training wheels can be difficult for some children for a plethora of reasons. My article offers tips for parents to facilitate a painless and joyful experience.

My son had a very difficult time learning to swim. It wasn't that he disliked being in the water. He loved to take baths and play in the swimming pool. However, he was unable to put his face in or submerge himself passed his waist. I tried a myriad of things to try to help him. Throughout my experience with my son I have spoken to many parents and swim instructors to get ideas. My article is broken up into three sections: "Prevention," "Go Slow" and "Be Positive." I believe that this piece can serve as a tool to help parents who are trying to deal with this fairly common childhood fear.

I had been living with "Whale's parents" for quite some time when I wrote this article. "Whale's parents" were my son's imaginary friends. I have since found out that imaginary friends are extremely commonplace and quite healthy as long as the child enjoys a variety of activities and relates well with his peers. Children who tend to adopt them are often social, creative, independent and cooperative.

This piece discusses the diagnosis dilemma and special concerns for girls on the spectrum. I wrote this with National Autism Awareness Month in mind (April); however, this article would be a great fit for any issue focused on children with disabilities. I included interviews and conference statements from Suzanne Gunther, a mother of a seventeen-year-old daughter with Asperger's, Tony Attwood, PhD, a world renowned expert and author of several books on the subject, including The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome, and Valerie Paradiz, PhD, the developer of Integrated Self Advocacy ISA (a curriculum and training series for educators and therapists) and author of the widely acclaimed Elijah's Cup: A Family's Journey into the Community and Culture of High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's Syndrome.

This children's health piece includes comments from the mother of five-year-old, Amanda (who is a child living with the disease). It discusses risk factors, warning signs, treatments, and the daily struggles of those living with type 1 diabetes. It also contains important information for parents who have a diabetic child entering school. There is a suggested sidebar which lists additional resources and places readers can go to find local support groups, camps, and health care information. This piece would fit well in an issue focusing on childhood diseases, or one with an editorial focus on children's health in general.

A child's difficulty with listening, following directions, interpreting oral information and other receptive language problems could be attributed to many different disabilities. One of these is called auditory processing disorder (APD). APD has been misunderstood and misinterpreted by many. This is because the label APD has been applied (often incorrectly) to a wide variety of difficulties and disorders. As a result, there are some who question the existence of APD as a distinct diagnostic entity and others who assume that the term APD is applicable to any child who has difficulty listening or understanding spoken language. Therefore, understanding the difference between APD and other disorders that also affect language skills is imperative. This is an informative piece for parents to help them understand this often "misunderstood" disability. A sidebar with additional resources is included.

This piece differs from other articles on autism spectrum disorders in that it focuses on the "education of children" with Asperger's. After speaking with countless families about their greatest frustrations and concerns, I learned that it is in the area of education and placement that most seem overwhelmed and ill advised. Although special education services have come a long way, traditional public and private schools are sometimes failing to provide children with Asperger's Syndrome the educational support they deserve. The attached piece, "Educating the Child with Asperger's" is an in-depth article discussing the best classroom environment and placement for this growing population of students in our schools. I have had the pleasure of interviewing the following experts for the piece: (1) Robert Putnam, Ph.D.: Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Senior Vice President of Consultation and Positive Schools at the May Institute. (2) Valerie Paradiz, Ph.D.: Author of the acclaimed Elijah's Cup (The Free Press, 2002) and Director of ASPIE (The School for Autistic Strength, Purpose, and Independence in Education in Boiceville, NY). (3) Kathleen Edwards, M.Ed.: A special education consultant and Director of Starpoint School at Texas Christian University.

When my daughter uttered her first word I was thrilled. I knew that the next several months would bring a litany of new phrases and humorous garble that would keep me entranced and captivated with each new syllable. I knew this because my son (who was three at the time) would ramble on as if mastering the English language was simply a ho-hum affair. But after those first few words things just didn't progress as I had expected. I was soon to learn that my daughter had severe expressive and receptive language delays. This article was written with the express purpose of helping parents who find themselves overcome with feelings of apprehension and helplessness when they find out that their child has a language disability. This piece differs from other articles that I've read on the subject in that it focuses on the parent's role - in other words, how parents can play an integral part in their child's therapy and recovery.

This piece blends humor, reality and tips about how to take a breath during the frenzy of the holiday season. Along with the regular work day and ensuing jaunts to karate, gymnastics and clarinet lessons, most are also attending holiday concerts, holiday plays and holiday parties. Once you figure in time to shop, wrap, bake, clean and send holiday cards (oh...you're not doing that?), you have exactly two hours left in your day for sleep - brushing teeth not included! This is a great "holiday filler" piece.

"Why does it seem that the first born is always the luckiest in life? I'll tell you why - because it's in the cards. The first born always draws four of a kind, while the second child draws a lousy pair of Jacks." This essay is about a second born child's view of herself and her place in the world. It would fit well into any relationships, family, or point of view section such as: A Mom's View, Family Dynamics, Parents' Opinions, or Musings. This piece also suggests ways parents can help each child feel special no matter where his or her place is on the family tree.

I think most reasonable human beings understand that wearing a tank top to school when it's forty-two degrees outside is not a good choice. My second grader, however, will find one thousand upside-down reasons for why she should wear the garment. Her mother knows that the reason for this particular struggle is the horse applique on the front - the one adorned with a beaded bridle. My daughter is a "clothes horse" in the literal sense, you see. She would wear a horse shirt each and every day for the rest of her natural life if I would allow it. This is a humorous, slice-of-life piece - good for a "Family Ties" type section.

This essay reflects on the emotions I experienced when I sent my youngest child off to kindergarten. Most moms are surprised by the intense emotions they experience when they send their youngest to school full time. You expect to feel a sense of loss when the youngest goes off to college, but no one prepares you for the "first empty nest syndrome." This article is a perfect fit for a "back-to-school" issue, but it would also work well with a "mom's view" or similar column.

This children's health piece includes comments from the mother of five-year-old, Amanda (who is a child living with the disease). It discusses risk factors, warning signs, treatments, and the daily struggles of those living with type 1 diabetes. It also contains important information for parents who have a diabetic child entering school. There is a suggested sidebar which lists additional resources and places readers can go to find local support groups, camps, and health care information. This piece would fit well in an issue focusing on childhood diseases, or one with an editorial focus on children's health in general.

You're very likely to be on the phone engrossed in an important conversation when a tug at your arm or a voice of desperation pleads for your attention. A large ocean could probably be filled with the number of parents who have been interrupted while on the phone. I personally have gotten so frustrated with my children interrupting me that I've threatened, "Don't try to talk to me when I'm in a conversation with another adult unless you're bleeding profusely or the house is burning down!" This piece discusses techniques parents can use to teach their children restraint and the art of graceful interruption.

This article differs from many on the subject in that it focuses ONLY on the older child. After all, this is when thumbsucking becomes the most problematic. For the school-age child or preteen who continues to suck her thumb, the habit has become a crutch. It is no longer a mere reflex. At this point in a child's development, breaking the habit will take patience, understanding and a joint effort by both the child and her parents to eliminate the prolonged habit. This article would fit well in a February issue (National Children's Dental Health Month), an issue focusing on childhood habits/behaviors or an issue focusing on "problem solving" for parents. A sidebar containing age-appropriate literature and a link to ThumbGuard™ is included.

Did you know that babies are communicating their wants and needs before they reach twelve months of age? Yes, babies are "talking," not through verbal speech, but via sign language. Sign language has long been an alternative for deaf children and those who are hard of hearing. However, in the 1980s, important research on the use of sign language and the subsequent verbal language development of those infants provided a new perspective on the use of sign language with hearing babies. Studies showed that the parents of signing babies had less frustration, better communication, and a stronger parent-child bond with their infants than parents of non-signing babies. This piece includes a sidebar listing books, programs and DVDs which are available for those who would like to try "signing" with their baby.

The overprotective parent "coddles" her child when she believes that completely shielding her child from inevitable problems and disappointments is a necessary part of parenting. Subsequently, the coddled child will learn to depend on others to rescue him from life's calamities, instead of having the will and know-how to rescue himself. Coddlers step in to negotiate for their child instead of letting the child work it out for himself. They intervene, regardless of the severity of the problem, (whether it is an issue with a teacher, peer or another adult). The following experts were interviewed for the piece: Lauren Solotar, Ph.D., Chief Psychologist and Senior Vice President of clinical services with the renowned May Institute, Psychologist Erik Fisher, Ph.D., author of The Art of Managing Everyday Conflict, and Mary Ann LoFrumento, M.D., a pediatrician and creator of "Simply Parenting" (a program designed to end parents' anxieties and bring parenting back to basics).

Many of us have been there. You're in aisle twenty-two of the grocery store and your toddler decides it's time to get out of the cart. When you don't oblige, she starts to scream at decibels heard by all, including the man in the bread section who dons a hearing aide. At home you have a handle on your tot's occasional tantrums. However, the public domain is another issue entirely. You would like to just ignore your child because you've developed the patience of Jobe since entering the world of parenthood, but those around you feel differently. They stare as though they've never seen a child have a tantrum. What's a parent to do?

Moving is as hard for kids as it is for adults - maybe even more so. It's not so much the particulars which accompany Moving Day, but the fear of the unknown once you've gotten where you're going. Many parents find that unpacking or finding a new pediatrician is the least of their worries. The best you can do is to make things as comfortable and familiar as possible for each family member. This piece differs from others on the subject of moving children in that it focuses on helping your children adjust to their new environment (or the "post" move). I've included a suggested sidebar which lists age-specific reading materials to help kids cope.

I wouldn't consider myself a frequent flyer, but I've flown enough times to have occupied a seat across from an infant, precariously perched atop his mother's lap. Currently, parents traveling with children under two are not required to purchase a seat for their child in order to strap him into a child restraint system (CRS). On August 3rd, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) revisited Safety Recommendation A-95-51 which suggests that the FAA revise the Code of Federal Regulation (14 CFR) to require that all occupants be restrained during takeoff, landing, and turbulent conditions. This piece discusses those issues parents must consider (such as safety risks, high cost, discomfort to the baby and other passengers, and other inconveniences) when deciding whether to purchase a seat and use a CRS or to opt for "lap travel" if traveling by plane with their baby. This piece would work well in a holiday issue or travel issue when many families take advantage of visiting relatives while their children are off from school.

Have you ever been in a restaurant trying to have an adult conversation when the three-year-old child in the booth behind you is pretending that the seat is a trampoline? I used to be appalled when parents allowed their children to behave like field mice in restaurants. Then...I had kids. This is an honest piece about the trials and tribulations of eating out with young children. It offers many tips for those parents who wish to venture out to service establishments with their kids. Don't let your "reservations" get in the way of having a pleasant outing with your family.

I was compelled to write this article because of my daughter's trepidation about going to the dentist. I have since learned many ways to help my children relax in the dentist's chair. I share my own ideas as well as expert advice about how to handle a fearful child in this situation. My article offers recommendations for both preschoolers and older children.

I have to admit that I was one of those mothers who compared the intellectual prowess of my preschooler to others his age, for I was constantly hoping that he would have a head start when he entered kindergarten. I realize now that putting too much pressure on a child to excel at such a vulnerable age can do more harm than good. Millions of parents are trying to keep up with our aggressive society and are pushing their preschoolers too much in the process. My article explains the problems that can occur when one tries to mold a "child scholar." It also offers specific examples about how to teach your child with positive results.

The lamb was just one of many gifts that we received for our infant son. Dee, as my son named her, has been toted everywhere. There were several times that we had to backtrack twenty miles or so on road trips having left the pesky thing in a booth at some restaurant. Before I entered the world of parenthood, I never stopped to notice that hordes of toddlers had some ragged thing tucked under one arm as their mom held the other. I've since learned that experts often deem such special toys "comforters," and that toddlers who tote these objects are perfectly normal and healthy.

Sometimes parents are hesitant about planning a second child when their first has yet to reach the age of two. They foresee the difficulty in raising two children very close in age. However, the transition to double-diaper-changing is only a minor adjustment when you consider the wealth of challenges for parents who are about to enter the world of "parents of two." One of the imminent problems that parents encounter is how to help their oldest child (especially if this child is a toddler) cope with the arrival of a sibling. My article speaks to parents through the eyes of someone who has been there. My adoring son was not so pleased when my daughter first arrived home, even though he had seemed pleased with the "idea" all along.

When my son was born one of the first things I remember my husband saying was that two of his little toes were joined together on his left foot. Eleven months later we found ourselves facing an operation to have it fixed. Thousands of parents go through the stressful experience of preparing a small child for an operation, yet most never want to believe it will happen. Fortunately, my son's operation was relatively simple and most of the risk was inherent in the anesthesia administered prior to the operation. However, whether it's a trip to the emergency room because of a dog bite, or a major operation requiring a hospital stay, young children are better off when they are physically and mentally prepared for what is to come; and parents need to be just as prepared in order to be a calming influence for their child.

There are many days that I am overwhelmed...stuck with no carpool, but two places to get to at the same time, laundry piled to the ceiling, groceries flung on the counter yet unpacked...when I think of parents with large families. You know, those brave souls who somehow found the strength and energy to raise four, five or even more children. How do they do it? Do parents of large families have a key to a secret code that the rest of us missed out on? I've interviewed parents of large families to find out their secrets. Their solutions for storage, saving money at the stores, and parenting different personalities can be adopted by all families - both large and small. This article is universal and would fit well in a May issue (Mother's Day), or any issue focusing on sibling or family relationships.

This piece blends humor, reality and tips about how to take a breath during the frenzy of the holiday season. Along with the regular work day and ensuing jaunts to karate, gymnastics and clarinet lessons, most are also attending holiday concerts, holiday plays and holiday parties. Once you figure in time to shop, wrap, bake, clean and send holiday cards (oh...you're not doing that?), you have exactly two hours left in your day for sleep - brushing teeth not included! This is a great "holiday filler" piece.

"Why does it seem that the first born is always the luckiest in life? I'll tell you why - because it's in the cards. The first born always draws four of a kind, while the second child draws a lousy pair of Jacks." This essay is about a second born child's view of herself and her place in the world. It would fit well into any relationships, family, or point of view section such as: A Mom's View, Family Dynamics, Parents' Opinions, or Musings. This piece also suggests ways parents can help each child feel special no matter where his or her place is on the family tree.

Sleepovers can be overwhelming and exhausting. Let's face it. They can be a downright nightmare. It will take quite a bit of planning and forethought, but both the parent AND her child's friends can have a positive experience if the party is carefully planned before the first excited guest appears at the door. This article contains rules and tips for planning a stress free sleepover party. It also contains a list of tips JUST FOR KIDS offered BY KIDS from across the country - this is intended to be a sidebar (or "cut out" section). A recipe for a "sleepover theme" cake and a list of books and websites offering additional ideas is also included with the piece.

Remember those old photo albums your grandmother used to pull out on occasion? They contained black pages with photo mounting corners. The black and white photos were probably yellowed with age, and the inscription beneath might have been a "penciled in" date. For the most part, these albums were simply a collection of photographs - a series of snapshots from the past. What we now consider to be "scrapbooking" is the hobby of creatively arranging photos, various memorabilia and fanciful text on a page. This article is a "how-to" piece containing time-saving and money-saving tips. A sidebar is included which lists addtional resources for the hobbyist.

Most parents hope to give their son or daughter something very special for high school or college graduation. Yes, a new car or big check will garner gleeful reactions. However, a gift that takes eighteen years or more to create, and one which will last a lifetime, will be cherished more than any big ticket item. This is a how-to piece for creating a "Memory Treasure Chest" or "Memories Box" for one's child. This piece will work well in a special Baby Guide, a graduation issue, or at the holidays, when parents become acutely aware of their children growing up too fast.

I wouldn't consider myself a frequent flyer, but I've flown enough times to have occupied a seat across from an infant, precariously perched atop his mother's lap. Currently, parents traveling with children under two are not required to purchase a seat for their child in order to strap him into a child restraint system (CRS). On August 3rd, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) revisited Safety Recommendation A-95-51 which suggests that the FAA revise the Code of Federal Regulation (14 CFR) to require that all occupants be restrained during takeoff, landing, and turbulent conditions. This piece discusses those issues parents must consider (such as safety risks, high cost, discomfort to the baby and other passengers, and other inconveniences) when deciding whether to purchase a seat and use a CRS or to opt for "lap travel" if traveling by plane with their baby. This piece would work well in a holiday issue or travel issue when many families take advantage of visiting relatives while their children are off from school.

My husband and I have been part of two communities in two different states that some might say exemplify an atmosphere of "neighborhood spirit" that seems too often to be absent from communities because of today's fast-paced and hectic lifestyles. For those who wish to connect with their neighbors and become part of a "community" instead of simply being called neighbors due to proximity alone, planning an annual neighborhood party is a great way to get to know your neighbors on a personal level. This piece is divided into four sections: "Get Organized," "Get the Word Out," "Yum - Food!" and "Fun For All Ages." I suggest ideas for invitations, an "As We Grow" photo album (This is a memories scrapbook that is showcased at our parties - it's a great conversation piece!), a suggestion box and games and activities for all ages. I have photos available for this piece. A "sidebar" is included. This is a suggestion for a winter party idea (a dine-around).

I was compelled to write this article because of my daughter's trepidation about going to the dentist. I have since learned many ways to help my children relax in the dentist's chair. I share my own ideas as well as expert advice about how to handle a fearful child in this situation. My article offers recommendations for both preschoolers and older children.

It's unfortunate, but parents of gifted kids are often left to their own devices in finding resources for their children. Teachers are not trained to differentiate curriculum for gifted learners in college, and federal and state money is only appropriated for struggling students. For years the system has failed these kids. Parents must seek their own resources, enroll their children in extracurricular programs, and find mentors for their kids. This piece explains giftedness, provides resources, and offers suggestions for parents about how to navigate their child's school system.

I remember the day quite vividly. It was a crisp September morning back in 1974. This was the morning my mother announced I could walk to school on my first day of fifth grade. For kids in my old neighborhood, being allowed to walk to school was a rite of passage - an intangible ladder rung on that uphill climb to full-blown independence. Today, walking to school can still be a healthy alternative to riding the bus for those students who live close enough to their school. Childhood obesity is becoming an epidemic and walking to school can provide a daily exercise routine for students.

Some kids think standing up in front of the class is a cinch. However, for many others, speaking in front of a room full of peers is worse than getting a tooth pulled without Novocaine. Some even flat out refuse to do it! The most common form of Social Phobia is public speaking anxiety. In addition to the emotional aspects of public speaking anxiety, there are often physical symptoms as well. This piece includes tips for parents so they can help their children through this common fear. A suggested sidebar with additional resources for students is included.

This children's health piece includes comments from the mother of five-year-old, Amanda (who is a child living with the disease). It discusses risk factors, warning signs, treatments, and the daily struggles of those living with type 1 diabetes. It also contains important information for parents who have a diabetic child entering school. There is a suggested sidebar which lists additional resources and places readers can go to find local support groups, camps, and health care information. This piece would fit well in an issue focusing on childhood diseases, or one with an editorial focus on children's health in general.

You're very likely to be on the phone engrossed in an important conversation when a tug at your arm or a voice of desperation pleads for your attention. A large ocean could probably be filled with the number of parents who have been interrupted while on the phone. I personally have gotten so frustrated with my children interrupting me that I've threatened, "Don't try to talk to me when I'm in a conversation with another adult unless you're bleeding profusely or the house is burning down!" This piece discusses techniques parents can use to teach their children restraint and the art of graceful interruption.

Sleepovers can be overwhelming and exhausting. Let's face it. They can be a downright nightmare. It will take quite a bit of planning and forethought, but both the parent AND her child's friends can have a positive experience if the party is carefully planned before the first excited guest appears at the door. This article contains rules and tips for planning a stress free sleepover party. It also contains a list of tips JUST FOR KIDS offered BY KIDS from across the country - this is intended to be a sidebar (or "cut out" section). A recipe for a "sleepover theme" cake and a list of books and websites offering additional ideas is also included with the piece.

This article differs from many on the subject in that it focuses ONLY on the older child. After all, this is when thumbsucking becomes the most problematic. For the school-age child or preteen who continues to suck her thumb, the habit has become a crutch. It is no longer a mere reflex. At this point in a child's development, breaking the habit will take patience, understanding and a joint effort by both the child and her parents to eliminate the prolonged habit. This article would fit well in a February issue (National Children's Dental Health Month), an issue focusing on childhood habits/behaviors or an issue focusing on "problem solving" for parents. A sidebar containing age-appropriate literature and a link to ThumbGuard™ is included.

The overprotective parent "coddles" her child when she believes that completely shielding her child from inevitable problems and disappointments is a necessary part of parenting. Subsequently, the coddled child will learn to depend on others to rescue him from life's calamities, instead of having the will and know-how to rescue himself. Coddlers step in to negotiate for their child instead of letting the child work it out for himself. They intervene, regardless of the severity of the problem, (whether it is an issue with a teacher, peer or another adult). The following experts were interviewed for the piece: Lauren Solotar, Ph.D., Chief Psychologist and Senior Vice President of clinical services with the renowned May Institute, Psychologist Erik Fisher, Ph.D., author of The Art of Managing Everyday Conflict, and Mary Ann LoFrumento, M.D., a pediatrician and creator of "Simply Parenting" (a program designed to end parents' anxieties and bring parenting back to basics).

Many youngsters don't learn to balance a checkbook or to save money long-term until it's absolutely necessary - and some never do! When children are taught to apply these skills early, they become proficient at money management by the time they reach adulthood. Most parents and teachers agree that the best way to teach a child a skill AND to have it stick is via "hands on" experiences when children learn by actually going through a process. The following programs take advantage of this "hands on" approach: Washington Mutual School Savings Program, National Teach Children to Save Day, The Stock Market Game.

Moving is as hard for kids as it is for adults - maybe even more so. It's not so much the particulars which accompany Moving Day, but the fear of the unknown once you've gotten where you're going. Many parents find that unpacking or finding a new pediatrician is the least of their worries. The best you can do is to make things as comfortable and familiar as possible for each family member. This piece differs from others on the subject of moving children in that it focuses on helping your children adjust to their new environment (or the "post" move). I've included a suggested sidebar which lists age-specific reading materials to help kids cope.

I think most reasonable human beings understand that wearing a tank top to school when it's forty-two degrees outside is not a good choice. My second grader, however, will find one thousand upside-down reasons for why she should wear the garment. Her mother knows that the reason for this particular struggle is the horse applique on the front - the one adorned with a beaded bridle. My daughter is a "clothes horse" in the literal sense, you see. She would wear a horse shirt each and every day for the rest of her natural life if I would allow it. This is a humorous, slice-of-life piece - good for a "Family Ties" type section.

Children have been dealing with bullies for centuries. However, the idea that bullying is "just a part of growing up" or an inevitable condition of boyhood ("boys will be boys") is a prevailing, "laissez-faire" attitude that is slow to change. Too many school administrators are reluctant to hold perpetrators accountable, and some parents still consider bullying a part of growing up. Until parents, educators, and community leaders consider the issue of "bullying" a serious offense, children will continue to be injured physically and emotionally, bearing the negative effects of these injuries into adulthood. This piece suggests specific strategies parents, teachers and community leaders can use to diffuse this increasingly violent problem among our youth.

"Mom! I can't find my..." You fill in the blank. My daughter has been losing or forgetting SOMETHING several times a day since she has been able to pick things up and carry them off. I've recently garnered advice from the experts, hoping to encourage my daughter to become responsible for her own possessions. This article suggests that parents teach their children remembering strategies and organizational skills. The piece also offers some tips for the "morning routine" and discusses the benefits of allowing children to suffer consequences for their actions in order to become more responsible.

My son was spending too much time in front of the television screen, not because he was watching too many cartoons, but because I couldn't drag him away from the Nintendo machine. I know that I am not alone. Many of the moms I've talked to complain about the same thing. There is definitely a video game craze in this country and many kids have opted for this type of entertainment. This activity can be just as unhealthy as too much TV if the use of video games becomes an obsession and a child is no longer interested in other toys. My mistake was that I dealt with the problem too late and too drastically. I waited until the problem was out of control to make my big announcement: "No more Nintendo ever again! I'm throwing the thing out!" Fortunately, things calmed down and I was able to set some limits. Even if parents set firm limits with their children, however, it is still pertinent to find healthy alternatives to playing video games. This article speaks to both.

I had been living with "Whale's parents" for quite some time when I wrote this article. "Whale's parents" were my son's imaginary friends. I have since found out that imaginary friends are extremely commonplace and quite healthy as long as the child enjoys a variety of activities and relates well with his peers. Children who tend to adopt them are often social, creative, independent and cooperative.

This piece discusses the diagnosis dilemma and special concerns for girls on the spectrum. I wrote this with National Autism Awareness Month in mind (April); however, this article would be a great fit for any issue focused on children with disabilities. I included interviews and conference statements from Suzanne Gunther, a mother of a seventeen-year-old daughter with Asperger's, Tony Attwood, PhD, a world renowned expert and author of several books on the subject, including The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome, and Valerie Paradiz, PhD, the developer of Integrated Self Advocacy ISA (a curriculum and training series for educators and therapists) and author of the widely acclaimed Elijah's Cup: A Family's Journey into the Community and Culture of High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's Syndrome.

It's unfortunate, but parents of gifted kids are often left to their own devices in finding resources for their children. Teachers are not trained to differentiate curriculum for gifted learners in college, and federal and state money is only appropriated for struggling students. For years the system has failed these kids. Parents must seek their own resources, enroll their children in extracurricular programs, and find mentors for their kids. This piece explains giftedness, provides resources, and offers suggestions for parents about how to navigate their child's school system.

There are many days that I am overwhelmed...stuck with no carpool, but two places to get to at the same time, laundry piled to the ceiling, groceries flung on the counter yet unpacked...when I think of parents with large families. You know, those brave souls who somehow found the strength and energy to raise four, five or even more children. How do they do it? Do parents of large families have a key to a secret code that the rest of us missed out on? I've interviewed parents of large families to find out their secrets. Their solutions for storage, saving money at the stores, and parenting different personalities can be adopted by all families - both large and small. This article is universal and would fit well in a May issue (Mother's Day), or any issue focusing on sibling or family relationships.

I remember the day quite vividly. It was a crisp September morning back in 1974. This was the morning my mother announced I could walk to school on my first day of fifth grade. For kids in my old neighborhood, being allowed to walk to school was a rite of passage - an intangible ladder rung on that uphill climb to full-blown independence. Today, walking to school can still be a healthy alternative to riding the bus for those students who live close enough to their school. Childhood obesity is becoming an epidemic and walking to school can provide a daily exercise routine for students.

This children's health piece includes comments from the mother of five-year-old, Amanda (who is a child living with the disease). It discusses risk factors, warning signs, treatments, and the daily struggles of those living with type 1 diabetes. It also contains important information for parents who have a diabetic child entering school. There is a suggested sidebar which lists additional resources and places readers can go to find local support groups, camps, and health care information. This piece would fit well in an issue focusing on childhood diseases, or one with an editorial focus on children's health in general.

Many people think they've lost their "window of opportunity" to visit Disney World with their kids because their "older kids" are no longer anxious to be photographed with Mickey or to dine with Goofy. This is simply not the case, and why I wrote this piece. Disney World has a lot to offer the preteen and teen crowd. Yes, it is a different family experience, but one that is definitely worth it! This piece would fit well in a family travel guide, a winter travel issue when families plan warm weather vacations, or during the holidays when Disney is adorned with spectacular decorations and brimming with holiday festivities.

Many students and their families find college preparation to be a daunting process. Admission to college can also be extremely competitive which often leaves students asking, "What on earth are they looking for?" In order to avoid a lot of frustration and disappointment, students should start planning for their future by eighth or ninth grade. This piece explores the kinds of things college admissions offices look for. A sidebar with additional resources is also included.

This piece blends humor, reality and tips about how to take a breath during the frenzy of the holiday season. Along with the regular work day and ensuing jaunts to karate, gymnastics and clarinet lessons, most are also attending holiday concerts, holiday plays and holiday parties. Once you figure in time to shop, wrap, bake, clean and send holiday cards (oh...you're not doing that?), you have exactly two hours left in your day for sleep - brushing teeth not included! This is a great "holiday filler" piece.

You're very likely to be on the phone engrossed in an important conversation when a tug at your arm or a voice of desperation pleads for your attention. A large ocean could probably be filled with the number of parents who have been interrupted while on the phone. I personally have gotten so frustrated with my children interrupting me that I've threatened, "Don't try to talk to me when I'm in a conversation with another adult unless you're bleeding profusely or the house is burning down!" This piece discusses techniques parents can use to teach their children restraint and the art of graceful interruption.

A huge number of our mothers, sisters, and female friends are silently suffering from depression. That's because depression is hard to talk about. Frequently, women who suffer from depression perceive their plight as a necessary part of womanhood. This is a comprehensive piece about depression - specifically in women. It contains interviews with nationally recognized psychologists who specialize in depression. Readers will find information on how to recognize the warning signs and how to get help. A sidebar is included with this piece.

Sleepovers can be overwhelming and exhausting. Let's face it. They can be a downright nightmare. It will take quite a bit of planning and forethought, but both the parent AND her child's friends can have a positive experience if the party is carefully planned before the first excited guest appears at the door. This article contains rules and tips for planning a stress free sleepover party. It also contains a list of tips JUST FOR KIDS offered BY KIDS from across the country - this is intended to be a sidebar (or "cut out" section). A recipe for a "sleepover theme" cake and a list of books and websites offering additional ideas is also included with the piece.

This article differs from many on the subject in that it focuses ONLY on the older child. After all, this is when thumbsucking becomes the most problematic. For the school-age child or preteen who continues to suck her thumb, the habit has become a crutch. It is no longer a mere reflex. At this point in a child's development, breaking the habit will take patience, understanding and a joint effort by both the child and her parents to eliminate the prolonged habit. This article would fit well in a February issue (National Children's Dental Health Month), an issue focusing on childhood habits/behaviors or an issue focusing on "problem solving" for parents. A sidebar containing age-appropriate literature and a link to ThumbGuard™ is included.

Did you know that babies are communicating their wants and needs before they reach twelve months of age? Yes, babies are "talking," not through verbal speech, but via sign language. Sign language has long been an alternative for deaf children and those who are hard of hearing. However, in the 1980s, important research on the use of sign language and the subsequent verbal language development of those infants provided a new perspective on the use of sign language with hearing babies. Studies showed that the parents of signing babies had less frustration, better communication, and a stronger parent-child bond with their infants than parents of non-signing babies. This piece includes a sidebar listing books, programs and DVDs which are available for those who would like to try "signing" with their baby.

The overprotective parent "coddles" her child when she believes that completely shielding her child from inevitable problems and disappointments is a necessary part of parenting. Subsequently, the coddled child will learn to depend on others to rescue him from life's calamities, instead of having the will and know-how to rescue himself. Coddlers step in to negotiate for their child instead of letting the child work it out for himself. They intervene, regardless of the severity of the problem, (whether it is an issue with a teacher, peer or another adult). The following experts were interviewed for the piece: Lauren Solotar, Ph.D., Chief Psychologist and Senior Vice President of clinical services with the renowned May Institute, Psychologist Erik Fisher, Ph.D., author of The Art of Managing Everyday Conflict, and Mary Ann LoFrumento, M.D., a pediatrician and creator of "Simply Parenting" (a program designed to end parents' anxieties and bring parenting back to basics).

Remember those old photo albums your grandmother used to pull out on occasion? They contained black pages with photo mounting corners. The black and white photos were probably yellowed with age, and the inscription beneath might have been a "penciled in" date. For the most part, these albums were simply a collection of photographs - a series of snapshots from the past. What we now consider to be "scrapbooking" is the hobby of creatively arranging photos, various memorabilia and fanciful text on a page. This article is a "how-to" piece containing time-saving and money-saving tips. A sidebar is included which lists addtional resources for the hobbyist.

Many of us have been there. You're in aisle twenty-two of the grocery store and your toddler decides it's time to get out of the cart. When you don't oblige, she starts to scream at decibels heard by all, including the man in the bread section who dons a hearing aide. At home you have a handle on your tot's occasional tantrums. However, the public domain is another issue entirely. You would like to just ignore your child because you've developed the patience of Jobe since entering the world of parenthood, but those around you feel differently. They stare as though they've never seen a child have a tantrum. What's a parent to do?

Moving is as hard for kids as it is for adults - maybe even more so. It's not so much the particulars which accompany Moving Day, but the fear of the unknown once you've gotten where you're going. Many parents find that unpacking or finding a new pediatrician is the least of their worries. The best you can do is to make things as comfortable and familiar as possible for each family member. This piece differs from others on the subject of moving children in that it focuses on helping your children adjust to their new environment (or the "post" move). I've included a suggested sidebar which lists age-specific reading materials to help kids cope.

Most parents hope to give their son or daughter something very special for high school or college graduation. Yes, a new car or big check will garner gleeful reactions. However, a gift that takes eighteen years or more to create, and one which will last a lifetime, will be cherished more than any big ticket item. This is a how-to piece for creating a "Memory Treasure Chest" or "Memories Box" for one's child. This piece will work well in a special Baby Guide, a graduation issue, or at the holidays, when parents become acutely aware of their children growing up too fast.

Once you have that second child things change immensely. All of a sudden you are thrown into a world where your children scrutinize your handling of your other children like expert sleuths investigating high profile crimes. Your kids are looking for complete fairness - equal treatment or else! This article discusses fair and equal treatment issues that all parents who have more than one child have to face.

Children have been dealing with bullies for centuries. However, the idea that bullying is "just a part of growing up" or an inevitable condition of boyhood ("boys will be boys") is a prevailing, "laissez-faire" attitude that is slow to change. Too many school administrators are reluctant to hold perpetrators accountable, and some parents still consider bullying a part of growing up. Until parents, educators, and community leaders consider the issue of "bullying" a serious offense, children will continue to be injured physically and emotionally, bearing the negative effects of these injuries into adulthood. This piece suggests specific strategies parents, teachers and community leaders can use to diffuse this increasingly violent problem among our youth.

"Mom! I can't find my..." You fill in the blank. My daughter has been losing or forgetting SOMETHING several times a day since she has been able to pick things up and carry them off. I've recently garnered advice from the experts, hoping to encourage my daughter to become responsible for her own possessions. This article suggests that parents teach their children remembering strategies and organizational skills. The piece also offers some tips for the "morning routine" and discusses the benefits of allowing children to suffer consequences for their actions in order to become more responsible.

Nine and a half years ago, I left my teaching position at a community college to stay at home full time with my newborn son. Shortly afterward, we moved out of state. I had left my family and childhood friends to move to a state where I knew no one and had no connections. I yearned for some adult company during the day - another mom to share my joys and frustrations with. That first winter, however, the only adult conversation I had during daylight hours was with the checkout clerks at the supermarket. Most moms can feed an infant on the left and balance a toddler on the right while reading the morning paper. This does not mean that moms don't need help emotionally or physically from others. "Support Groups For Moms" lists and describes a variety of national and local support groups for mothers. This piece also includes a suggested sidebar.

Many parents struggle with the question, "Can we afford to raise our kids on one salary?" The answer can be "yes." This piece lists ten reasons why living on one salary can be affordable. It is written with the intent to help parents begin to assess their fiscal future as they consider going from a one to two salary household. This article does not advocate "staying home" as the BEST choice; it only helps those who feel that it may be the RIGHT choice for their family.

When acquaintances hear that I have an office at home, the typical response is, "You're living the good life!" After all, I don't have to fight traffic each morning, spend a small fortune on hosiery, or dodge casual office gossip. Instead, I make myself a cup of coffee after dropping the kids at the bus, and head upstairs to my comfortable and cozy domain, where I have seven hours of uninterrupted work time. Yeah, right! There seems to be an increase in parents who choose to work from home, and with today's advanced technology this is becoming an easier task. Working from a "home office" can be a convenient and rewarding experience for the whole family. Creating and sticking to a reasonable work schedule that allows for flexibility is paramount to achieving a successful "home office" environment.

Too many of my friends have postponed spending the time and money to decorate their homes because they have young children. These same friends are amazed when they visit my home because I have taken the time to decorate - and my things have miraculously survived an onslaught of play dates and birthday parties! If you have a love of objects d'art and fine furnishings, you need not put your passion for decorating on hold until your kids enter college. My article offers readers many tips for family-friendly decorating.

This article is based on the truly rewarding experience I have had volunteering in my children's classrooms over the years. I believe that my regular presence in school has shown my children that I care deeply about their education. My article offers ideas for parental involvement, even for those parents who work full time and cannot volunteer during school hours. It lists the many reasons why volunteering is truly beneficial for everyone involved (students, teachers and parents). It is my belief that the cooperative alliance of parents and teachers who work together as a team is a formula for success.

It happened when my son was about fourteen months old. We were taking our usual stroll around the neighborhood when we encountered a dog-sitter walking our neighbor's new terrier. The dog got excited and leaped into the stroller on top of my son and began to ferociously bark just inches from his face. He was not bitten, but his memory of the horrific experience would remain vivid for years to come. That day it took close to an hour to calm him down, but I would soon find that this was just the beginning of a long and painful saga. For years we were unable to visit friends who owned dogs, to have an uneventful trick or treating experience, or to go to a public beach or park without my son agonizing over the thought of having to be in close proximity to a dog. Working with your child to overcome an intense fear is never an easy task. This article gives parents ideas about how to help their child overcome his fear of dogs.

She was going to arrive in thirty minutes and the anxiety was beginning to set in. I had made a dinner reservation to celebrate my husband's birthday, and had hired a seventeen-year-old to watch my kids. This would prove to be a nerve wracking evening until I settled in at the restaurant and realized I had some precious uninterrupted time with my husband. Many parents experience anxiety when they have to leave their child in someone else's care. However, there are many things you can do to prepare yourself and your precious little one for these brief and necessary separations.

My daughter attended preschool gymnastics classes and it proved to be a very positive experience for her. I competed in gymnastics for nine years, and, when I couldn't get the sport out of my system, I continued on as a judge for another fifteen. As a level 10 USAG rated official, I attended the National Safety Certification Course (which I mention in my article) and I traveled to many parts of the country to judge gymnasts ages six through twenty-two. I have been exposed to the sport as an athlete, a professional and a mother of a gymnast. This article discusses everything from safety to choosing the right gym.

My husband and I have been part of two communities in two different states that some might say exemplify an atmosphere of "neighborhood spirit" that seems too often to be absent from communities because of today's fast-paced and hectic lifestyles. For those who wish to connect with their neighbors and become part of a "community" instead of simply being called neighbors due to proximity alone, planning an annual neighborhood party is a great way to get to know your neighbors on a personal level. This piece is divided into four sections: "Get Organized," "Get the Word Out," "Yum - Food!" and "Fun For All Ages." I suggest ideas for invitations, an "As We Grow" photo album (This is a memories scrapbook that is showcased at our parties - it's a great conversation piece!), a suggestion box and games and activities for all ages. I have photos available for this piece. A "sidebar" is included. This is a suggestion for a winter party idea (a dine-around).

Many young teens consider themselves too mature to attend camp. On the other hand, their parents may believe that summer camp is still a worthwhile venture considering the alternative - just hanging out all day. There is a solution to this dilemma. Young teens can participate in a CIT (Counselor In Training) program at many camps throughout the United States. A sidebar is included with this piece (a search for accredited CIT programs - localized for your state).

Do you have a Fisher-Price kitchen collecting dust balls in your basement? Does your son's closet explode with a myriad of long-lost game pieces and Tonka wheels each time you open the door to put away the laundry? Maybe your garage is filled with unwanted and outgrown children's items and you can no longer park there. Guess what? It is time to plan a garage sale. This piece focuses on tips for selling children's clothing and toys. It offers advice on how to advertise and how to display and price your items. It also lists safety tips and ideas to get the kids involved. A suggested sidebar lists general tips for the tag sale enthusiast.

My son had a very difficult time learning to swim. It wasn't that he disliked being in the water. He loved to take baths and play in the swimming pool. However, he was unable to put his face in or submerge himself passed his waist. I tried a myriad of things to try to help him. Throughout my experience with my son I have spoken to many parents and swim instructors to get ideas. My article is broken up into three sections: "Prevention," "Go Slow" and "Be Positive." I believe that this piece can serve as a tool to help parents who are trying to deal with this fairly common childhood fear.

Some kids think standing up in front of the class is a cinch. However, for many others, speaking in front of a room full of peers is worse than getting a tooth pulled without Novocaine. Some even flat out refuse to do it! The most common form of Social Phobia is public speaking anxiety. In addition to the emotional aspects of public speaking anxiety, there are often physical symptoms as well. This piece includes tips for parents so they can help their children through this common fear. A suggested sidebar with additional resources for students is included.

Many people think they've lost their "window of opportunity" to visit Disney World with their kids because their "older kids" are no longer anxious to be photographed with Mickey or to dine with Goofy. This is simply not the case, and why I wrote this piece. Disney World has a lot to offer the preteen and teen crowd. Yes, it is a different family experience, but one that is definitely worth it! This piece would fit well in a family travel guide, a winter travel issue when families plan warm weather vacations, or during the holidays when Disney is adorned with spectacular decorations and brimming with holiday festivities.

Many students and their families find college preparation to be a daunting process. Admission to college can also be extremely competitive which often leaves students asking, "What on earth are they looking for?" In order to avoid a lot of frustration and disappointment, students should start planning for their future by eighth or ninth grade. This piece explores the kinds of things college admissions offices look for. A sidebar with additional resources is also included.

Sleepovers can be overwhelming and exhausting. Let's face it. They can be a downright nightmare. It will take quite a bit of planning and forethought, but both the parent AND her child's friends can have a positive experience if the party is carefully planned before the first excited guest appears at the door. This article contains rules and tips for planning a stress free sleepover party. It also contains a list of tips JUST FOR KIDS offered BY KIDS from across the country - this is intended to be a sidebar (or "cut out" section). A recipe for a "sleepover theme" cake and a list of books and websites offering additional ideas is also included with the piece.

Many young teens consider themselves too mature to attend camp. On the other hand, their parents may believe that summer camp is still a worthwhile venture considering the alternative - just hanging out all day. There is a solution to this dilemma. Young teens can participate in a CIT (Counselor In Training) program at many camps throughout the United States. A sidebar is included with this piece (a search for accredited CIT programs - localized for your state).

Sleepovers can be overwhelming and exhausting. Let's face it. They can be a downright nightmare. It will take quite a bit of planning and forethought, but both the parent AND her child's friends can have a positive experience if the party is carefully planned before the first excited guest appears at the door. This article contains rules and tips for planning a stress free sleepover party. It also contains a list of tips JUST FOR KIDS offered BY KIDS from across the country - this is intended to be a sidebar (or "cut out" section). A recipe for a "sleepover theme" cake and a list of books and websites offering additional ideas is also included with the piece.

My husband and I have been part of two communities in two different states that some might say exemplify an atmosphere of "neighborhood spirit" that seems too often to be absent from communities because of today's fast-paced and hectic lifestyles. For those who wish to connect with their neighbors and become part of a "community" instead of simply being called neighbors due to proximity alone, planning an annual neighborhood party is a great way to get to know your neighbors on a personal level. This piece is divided into four sections: "Get Organized," "Get the Word Out," "Yum - Food!" and "Fun For All Ages." I suggest ideas for invitations, an "As We Grow" photo album (This is a memories scrapbook that is showcased at our parties - it's a great conversation piece!), a suggestion box and games and activities for all ages. I have photos available for this piece. A "sidebar" is included. This is a suggestion for a winter party idea (a dine-around).

A huge number of our mothers, sisters, and female friends are silently suffering from depression. That's because depression is hard to talk about. Frequently, women who suffer from depression perceive their plight as a necessary part of womanhood. This is a comprehensive piece about depression - specifically in women. It contains interviews with nationally recognized psychologists who specialize in depression. Readers will find information on how to recognize the warning signs and how to get help. A sidebar is included with this piece.

Remember those old photo albums your grandmother used to pull out on occasion? They contained black pages with photo mounting corners. The black and white photos were probably yellowed with age, and the inscription beneath might have been a "penciled in" date. For the most part, these albums were simply a collection of photographs - a series of snapshots from the past. What we now consider to be "scrapbooking" is the hobby of creatively arranging photos, various memorabilia and fanciful text on a page. This article is a "how-to" piece containing time-saving and money-saving tips. A sidebar is included which lists addtional resources for the hobbyist.

It probably takes the average elementary school age child fifteen minutes to wash up and get dressed (full shower not included). However, on a typical school morning, my children are not focused. They are playing with the dog, arguing about who gets the computer first when they return home, or splashing in the sink water and staring at themselves in the mirror. This piece contains tips about how to organize stressful mornings and to motivate the kids to get out to the bus on time. Over 100 moms from twenty states participated.

Nine and a half years ago, I left my teaching position at a community college to stay at home full time with my newborn son. Shortly afterward, we moved out of state. I had left my family and childhood friends to move to a state where I knew no one and had no connections. I yearned for some adult company during the day - another mom to share my joys and frustrations with. That first winter, however, the only adult conversation I had during daylight hours was with the checkout clerks at the supermarket. Most moms can feed an infant on the left and balance a toddler on the right while reading the morning paper. This does not mean that moms don't need help emotionally or physically from others. "Support Groups For Moms" lists and describes a variety of national and local support groups for mothers. This piece also includes a suggested sidebar.

This essay reflects on the emotions I experienced when I sent my youngest child off to kindergarten. Most moms are surprised by the intense emotions they experience when they send their youngest to school full time. You expect to feel a sense of loss when the youngest goes off to college, but no one prepares you for the "first empty nest syndrome." This article is a perfect fit for a "back-to-school" issue, but it would also work well with a "mom's view" or similar column.

Most cruise lines today offer something for everyone. While Grandma plays bingo, Mom and Dad can attend a wine tasting and the kids can go rock climbing. Even if folks have cruised before, there are some things they should familiarize themselves with before they take the kids along. This piece offers numerous tips for cruising with the entire family and would make a great addition to a travel pull-out section or to a winter issue when many are thinking of travel plans. There is a suggested sidebar included.

Many people think they've lost their "window of opportunity" to visit Disney World with their kids because their "older kids" are no longer anxious to be photographed with Mickey or to dine with Goofy. This is simply not the case, and why I wrote this piece. Disney World has a lot to offer the preteen and teen crowd. Yes, it is a different family experience, but one that is definitely worth it! This piece would fit well in a family travel guide, a winter travel issue when families plan warm weather vacations, or during the holidays when Disney is adorned with spectacular decorations and brimming with holiday festivities.