At 15 years old, I rocked a fedora as my own personal fashion trend. I spent my free time in the local arcade and braved Canadian winters in nothing but a jean jacket. Strike that... I had clothes on, but none of the appropriate outdoor variety. While we weren't wealthy by any means, I assure you that my parents provided a winter coat and boots. They even gave me gloves and a hat, although I feel that was a waste of their money. A toque on a girl's hair in the eighties? I think not. Thirty … [Read more...] about The Teenager and the (lack of) Winter Coat
teens
The Period Pack: What to Give a Tween Girl
You've had the talk. The school has done their part to educate kids about puberty and what is going to happen to their bodies. Now it's time to ensure your tween girl has the supplies she needs for her first period. If your daughter is easily embarrassed or prefers her privacy, put the period pack in a box. A cardboard gift box would work well, or you could go big with a fancy chest like the only below. Whatever you decide, it is the contents that are going to be the most … [Read more...] about The Period Pack: What to Give a Tween Girl
When to say No to Teenagers
Long before I had teenagers, I watched a parenting video by Barbara Coloroso. At the time I was struggling with three year old tantrums on a daily basis. He would throw screaming fits after school every day if he didn't get what he wanted immediately. He wanted to eat his dinner and to play with his friend across the hall. I had to cook dinner before he could eat and we had to eat before he could visit his friend. It was a daily drama that I didn't enjoy. I was at my wit's end when I sat down to … [Read more...] about When to say No to Teenagers
Mindfulness for Moms
Now that my kids are older, I don't experience the same overwhelming desire for a little peace and quiet that I used to (see moms, it does get better!). However, teenagers and tweens bring their own set of challenges that often takes over the minds of parents. It may appear I have more free time, but my thoughts are preoccupied and can be exhausting too. Whether you have babies, toddlers or teens, if you are a mom, you need to remember to take a break and be mindful of our own well-being. I … [Read more...] about Mindfulness for Moms
Teaching Your Teen to Drive: The Dos and Don’ts
Your kids’ life is full of milestones; from saying their very first words to taking their first steps, heading off for their first day of school - and, of course, getting their driver’s license. The last one may be the scariest milestone to most parents, though, as it means that the kid who used to crawl around on the floor now is able to get from A to B in a very fast vehicle - and there is actually nothing more frightening than this. Luckily, they have you as a great parent and patient … [Read more...] about Teaching Your Teen to Drive: The Dos and Don’ts
Goal Setting for Teens
Teenagers often deal with anxiety about school and relationships, but sometimes this anxiety goes beyond the regular teenage "growing pains". Recognizing what is fueling their fears is the first step to helping teenagers manage their stress and anxiety, and then you can provide them with the tools to feel empowered and in control. The first step for managing a teen's anxiety should always be getting professional help. You can see a counselor, a pediatrician or a psychologist to ensure that … [Read more...] about Goal Setting for Teens
