Prepping Your Dog for Baby
Before your baby arrives, prepare your dog for the changes ahead and enjoy the rewards of raising your children alongside your furry companion.
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Choosing the Best Pet for Your Family
According to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, raising children with pets can benefit a child’s self-esteem and self-confidence and can encourage compassion and empathy. But, unlike a sweater that you can return if it d…
Read ArticleChoosing the Best Pet for Your Family
Before surprising your children with a new pet as a holiday gift this year, consider your family’s lifestyle, finances and personality to decide what pet is right for you.
Read ArticleWhen the Dog Bites
Dr. Stephen Lassen, associate professor of behavioral pediatrics at KU Medical Center, says that childhood fears are common. “Fears regarding dogs tend to peak at age 5, then decline over time,” Lassen says. “(Children) need to know that th…
Read ArticlePrepping Your Dog for Baby
Roughly two-thirds of American families own at least one dog. Add baby to the mix and oftentimes the family dog drops quickly on the priority list or is removed from the household altogether. Before your baby arrives, prepare your dog for t…
Read ArticleThe 10 Commandments of Christmas
Want to experience a more joyful Christmas season this year that doesn’t leave you depleted, miserable and broke?
Read ArticleGo a Little Rogue for a More Gratifying Thanksgiving
If the holiday feels more like a tired list of ho-hum obligations rather than an energizing way to revel in your blessings, maybe this is the year to revolutionize your Thanksgiving.
Read ArticleDinner’s Done. Now What?
After all the hours of prep work that goes into Thanksgiving dinner, the meal seems as though it’s gobbled up in no time flat. Now what? Here’s a bounty of activity ideas, big and small, for the entire family to enjoy after the big feast.
Read ArticlePoor Report Card? Help for the Second Quarter
For some kids, school is a challenge no matter what. throw in a historic pandemic, complete with masks, social distancing and an unrecognizable classroom environment and you have a recipe for even more kids feeling the sting of school struggles.
Read Article12 Guilty Pleasures that Combat Stress
When you nurture your spirit, you decrease stress and boost your happiness, creating a domino effect throughout your family.
Read ArticlePreparing Happy Campers
Summer camp is a time-honored tradition, rich with activities, newfound friendships and a lifetime of memories. Explore a few ways to make your child’s camp experience smooth sailing from start to finish.
Read ArticleWhat Kind of Mom Are You? Quiz
Aren’t we all a little guilty of labeling other moms? Sure, we all share the common goal of nurtur-ing a happy, healthy family, and we make different choices to get there.
Read Article30 Days to a Healthier Social Life
Take charge of your interpersonal interactions with one small step a day to create a more energizing, fulfilling social life.
Read ArticleNaming Baby
With the debate that erupts around naming babies, expectant parents may wonder: How much should popular trends and others’ opinions influence our decision? And how...
Read ArticleEngaging the Daydreamer
Though many dreamers are bright, creative children, they may have trouble getting work done during the school day, struggle with paying attention to the teacher and forget to turn in homework.
Read ArticleEverything You Need to Know About Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia typically occurs any time after 20 weeks gestation and, more rarely, can develop up to six weeks postpartum.
Read ArticleConnect Through the Magic of Storytelling
Stories put our experiences into perspective, comforting us with the knowledge that we aren’t alone in our human experiences.
Read ArticleFinding the Right Doc for Your New Baby
Take steps before your baby arrives to choose a trustworthy doctor with whom you feel comfortable.
Read ArticleHealthy Babies Start with Proper Pregnancy Planning
A healthy pregnancy begins long before conception. By planning ahead, you can lower the risk of complications and give your baby the best support from the very beginning.
Read Article50 Lessons from the Trenches
Here are a few golden lessons I’ve chalked up so far that I can share with you …
Read Article10 Commandments for More Holiday Cheer
Want to experience a more joyful holiday season this year that doesn’t leave you miserable, depleted and broke? Here are 10 ways to shift your perspective and take command of this “hap-happiest” time of the year!
Read ArticleTeacher Trouble
“I hate school. My teacher is mean!” At one time or another, nearly every parent of a school-age youngster has heard their child express displeasure with the entire educational establishment.
Read ArticleGoing the Distance: Why reaching full term matters
If everything is normal, “safety for baby comes first, and so 39 to 41 weeks is ideal as far as the growth of baby,” says Rabiya Suleman, OB/GYN, Overland Park Regional Medical Center.
Read ArticleHomework Help! Seven Tips to Ease Frustration & Boost Focus
For kiddos who struggle to tune out distractions and concentrate on the task at hand, sitting down to do homework doesn’t rank high on their list of priorities.
Read ArticleSummer Fun: How to Plan a Photography Safari
A photography safari, or photo scavenger hunt, is a creative, interactive way to usher your kids away from screens and out into nature this summer.
Read ArticleWhat to Expect: C-Sections Vs. Vaginal Births
By educating yourself, taking birthing classes and asking your health care provider plenty of questions along the way, you’ll feel more prepared, whether you deliver vaginally or by cesarean section.
Read Article10 Tips to Raise a Skilled Communicator in the Digital Age
In a world ever distracted by dinging devices, children who develop a well-rounded set of communication skills will stand out in the digital-focused crowd.
Read ArticleWant to Move Your Family Abroad?
Whether you’ve been assigned to another nation for work or long to globetrot with your family for other reasons, you may wonder how realistic an international move is, especially with kids.
Read ArticleSeven Gentle Ways to Calm the Chatter
How do you know when talking has crossed from socially acceptable to problematic?
Read Article11 Ways Families Can Salute a Veteran
Help a veteran, a deployed service member and military families know you appreciate their sacrifices.
Read Article12 Guilty Pleasures That Combat Holiday Stress
If you’re like many busy moms, you may think taking time to treat yourself is a crazy indulgence during the hectic holiday season.
Read ArticleMaternity Leave Realities
Just as you’re getting into the rhythm of new parenthood, reality hits-it’s time to plan for your return to work. Manage the transition from maternity leave to work with confidence! Here’s how.
Read ArticleEight Things Mindful Parents Do Differently
How do parents leaning into mindfulness parent differently?
Read ArticleYour Worry-Free Guide for Returning to Work
Whether you’ve been out of the workforce for months or years, making the transition back after staying home with your children can cause a mixture of excitement and anxiety. Read on to enjoy a smoother adjustment for your family.
Read ArticleWelcoming the New Kid to School
Being the new kid isn’t easy, but fortunately many schools and their students love rolling out the welcome mat to help new students feel like a valued part of the community.
Read ArticleWhat Nurses Really Want You to Know About C-Sections
While a c-section may not be part of your birth plan, knowing what to expect should you need one can alleviate some of the anxiety around the surgery.
Read ArticleWhat Inquiring Parents of Teens Want to Know
Parents of teens have questions. For advice on topics ranging from pandemic concerns to wise decision-making, we turned to Kansas City experts for answers to some of our most pressing questions.
Read ArticleThe ABCs of Hospital Delivery
The hospital delivery process starts long before labor pains begin. Here’s what to expect.
Read ArticleWhen Your Child Is in the Hospital
Amanda Connealy will never forget her daughter Olivia’s first hospital stay two years ago. She was admitted following a massive seizure, and the stay lasted just over three months.
Read ArticleBefore the Baby
Not everyone gets the benefit of planning for pregnancy. But if you can, planning can make a big difference in the health and well-being of both you and your future baby.
Read ArticleHelping Kids Learn to Make Good Decisions
Parents can help children learn smart decision-making skills and manage mistakes-without helicoptering their every move.
Read ArticleMore Than Books
Our city’s area libraries are buzzing hubs, featuring thousands of educational programs each year that appeal to a variety of interests and ages.
Read Article10 Steps to Squash Sibling Rivalry
With diverse personalities collected under one roof, it’s no wonder brothers and sisters have antagonized each other—and aggravated their parents—since time began.
Read ArticleShould You Stay or Should You Go?
As kids get older, they may begin to resist going to their pediatrician’s office where they are surrounded by screaming babies and toddlers and nurses dressed in teddy bear scrubs.
Read ArticleHelping Kids Test Their Best
By third grade, most kids have experienced testing on some level, ranging from spelling and math tests in class to standardized state exams.
Read ArticleNewborn Care 101
Transitioning to life with a newborn can be as gratifying as it is overwhelming. Read on for time-tested tricks and expert tips that will help your baby—and you!—thrive during the first few weeks postpartum.
Read ArticleFrom Kindergarten to College
Here’s what you need to know to help your child successfully navigate school milestones—and what to watch for each step of the way.
Read ArticleFive Ways to Help Keep Your Toddler Out of the ER
Here are five ways to help keep your youngster safe and out of the emergency department —and a few tips if you find yourself there anyway.
Read ArticleNine Impressive Skills Kid Entrepreneurs Learn
What can kids learn from owning their own businesses? Parents of young entrepreneurs say they not only earn extra cash, they gain a host of valuable life skills too.
Read ArticleReady or Not! Here Comes Summer
Here’s your guide for leaning into a more carefree, creative and spontaneous season.
Read ArticleScreen Time and Depression in Teens
What can parents do to buffer their kids from the adverse effects of screen technology?
Read ArticleTop 10 Labor and Delivery Fears
Feeling apprehensive about your upcoming labor and delivery? Knowing what to worry about and what not to can help alleviate fears you may be experiencing.
Read ArticleSix Tips for a Successful Sleep-Away Camp Experience
Considering a sleep-away camp for your child this summer? Here are few tips to make the experience an adventure he’ll remember long after the campfire songs are mere echoes in his ears.
Read ArticleWinter Got You Down? 14 Ways to Nourish Your Spirit
Banish winter yuck with a few of these nourishing self-care tips.
Read ArticleWhat’s Your Pregnancy IQ?
Pregnancy comes with plenty of questions. Do you have all of the answers? Take our quiz to find out your pregnancy IQ.
Read ArticleThe 10 Commandments of Christmas
Here are 10 ways to shift your perspective and take command of this “hap-happiest” time of the year.
Read ArticleWhen Parenting Styles Clash
How do we navigate a parenting style conflict without confusing our kids and harming our relationship with our partner?
Read ArticleBaby Quirks
Every new parent at some point wonders: Is my baby supposed to do that? Is this normal?
Read Article10 Benefits of Summer Camp
As 14 million children across the nation head off to day and overnight camps this summer, they’ll return home with more than just cute camp t-shirts. The summer camp experience can give kids an advantage in school and in life.
Read ArticleTracking Teens: Setting Limits and Giving Freedom
Thanks to GPS technology in smartphones, we have plenty of options when it comes to keeping up with our teenagers. But should we? As with so many other parenting decisions, it mostly depends on what works best for your family and what skill…
Read ArticleThe Experts Speak
As families prepare their students for the school season, educators weigh in on best practices for managing the transition back to school.
Read ArticleTips to Support a Spirited Child
Mindful parenting techniques can help a child who is emotionally intense by nature learn boundaries without repressing her feisty personality.
Read ArticleDangers of Vaping
Just as cigarette smoking drops to its lowest level in years, e-cigarette use, a.k.a. “vaping,” is exploding among middle and high school students. Teens may blow off the trend as harmless, but experts think otherwise.
Read ArticleEverything You Need to Know About Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia typically occurs any time after 20 weeks gestation and, more rarely, can develop up to six weeks postpartum. Women with preeclampsia generally experience high blood pressure and protein in the urine.
Read ArticleDads Rock!
Supportive dads and father figures positively influence a child’s development. Here’s how.
Read ArticleKids Worried Sick
Anxiety becomes a problem when it affects quality of life and interferes with the activities you normally enjoy.
Read ArticleSix Ways to Help Kids Use Social Media in a Healthy Way
Social media is now the hippest hangout for kids, even as young as elementary school age. Parenting this generation of digital kids means we need to know how to help them navigate social media in a healthy, positive and safe way.
Read ArticleDelivered…Now What?
What should you expect in the whirlwind of minutes and hours following your baby’s much-anticipated arrival?
Read ArticleHappy Family, Happy Life
Happiness can vary depending on our personal circumstances. But why are some families more resilient and happier despite the obstacles life throws their way?
Read ArticleWhat to Expect: C-Sections Vs. Vaginal Births
Like many new moms, one of the first lessons I learned was that parenthood rarely goes according to plan. But that doesn’t mean you should skip making a birth plan.
Read Article10 Money Lessons to Help Your Kids Avoid Debt
When it comes to teaching financial literacy, parents play a vital role in how kids will manage their money in the future. Here are ways to raise smart money managers.
Read ArticleSeven Tips for Overcoming Fear of the Dark
Fear of the dark is a normal part of development and one of the most common childhood problems plaguing families of school-age children. Kids who are afraid of the dark take nearly an hour longer than others to fall asleep. Without a good n…
Read Article15 Genius Tips for Back-to-School Time
Discover some of the best tips, clever tricks and genius hacks for heading back to school.
Read ArticleFinding the Right Doc for Your New Baby
During your baby’s first year, you’re going to be spending quite a bit of time with your child’s health care provider. Take steps before your baby arrives to choose a doctor you trust and with whom you feel comfortable.
Read ArticleHow to Plan a Photography Safari
A photography safari, or photo scavenger hunt, is a creative, interactive way to usher your kids away from screens and out into nature this summer.
Read ArticleWhat to Do When Online Conversation Turns Ugly
Without the benefit of body language that can help soften or defuse tense conversations, online discussions are ripe for misunderstandings and heated exchanges. How can we make social media a kinder place for the healthy exchange of views?
Read ArticleSurviving and Thriving: How to Make It on a Single-Income Budget
Life is expensive. Life with kids is even more expensive. So how do some parents who rely on one income not only survive, but still find ways to create a happy, well-rounded life for their families?
Read ArticleHow to Mindfully Bust Out of a Hyperactive Lifestyle
As the chief director of your family’s universe, you’re the pulse-point of the home. But if that means you’re struggling under the mantle of an unforgiving schedule, now is the time to reevaluate. Your health and the overall well-being of y…
Read ArticleTeen Parent, Private Eye
Teens by nature crave independence and privacy. As parents, how far should we go to respect their privacy while still ensuring they’re making sound decisions?
Read ArticleABCs of Raising a Culturally Curious Child
With thoughtful resourcefulness, teaching our kids to appreciate our world’s rich tapestry of cultures and customs can be as simple as A, B, C.
Read ArticleA Labor of Love
Through each step of pregnancy, you’re not only mothering your growing baby, you’re preparing emotionally and physically for the final, most challenging leg of pregnancy’s marathon: labor and delivery. Wondering what to expect?
Read ArticleUnplug: How Unstructured Time Fosters Better Connection
Whether you want to become a stronger, more intuitive communicator or you’re trying to raise one, free time spent unplugged can make a big difference.
Read ArticleGoing the Distance: Why reaching full term matters
Your doctor warned you these last few weeks of pregnancy would be the toughest. And she was right.
Read Article12 Tips to Tame the Holiday Circus
Are holiday traditions, parties, volunteer commitments and shopping turning you into a frenzied ringmaster of a runaway circus train? For your sanity and for your health, put the brakes on the holiday rush.
Read ArticleIs Teasing Bullying?
The ability to recognize and respond appropriately to lighthearted teasing is a valuable social skill.
Read ArticleMastering the Art of Nursing in Public
Experts agree that breastfeeding supports the healthy development of your baby and your overall well-being and it establishes a lasting bond with your little one. Breastfeeding is also conveniently portable. But if you’re like many new moms…
Read ArticleWhat Politics Can Teach Our Kids
From a parenting perspective, the democratic process––and political shenanigans––provides plenty of fodder for teaching kids lessons in independent thinking, respectful discourse, values and civics.
Read ArticleKeeping Your Middle Schooler Organized
Set your tween up for success in a way that supports his growing independence.
Read ArticlePregnancy Pains
How to manage the common aches, pains and general discomfort associated with pregnancy.
Read ArticleWhy Social Media Behavior Matters
For our digital natives, online interaction is part of the new order. But that doesn’t mean our kids don’t require old-fashioned parental guidance.
Read ArticleTeam Sports Vs. Individual Sports
Youth sports offer a host of emotional and physical benefits, from helping kids stay active to building self-esteem and learning to work with others.
Read ArticleChoosing the Right Day Camp for Your Child
Day camps come in all shapes and sizes, appealing to a range of interests and ages. Here’s how to find a camp that invests in your youngster by creating an unforgettable experience where he’ll meet new friends, gain self-confidence and lear…
Read ArticleA Valentine’s Day Playbook for Your Family
Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples in the heady throes of young love. Deliver sweet somethings to every important person in your life. Here’s the plan for a perfectly playful V-Day for the whole family.
Read ArticleBetter Balance Screen Time
With mobile devices readily available anywhere and everywhere, striking a healthy balance between online and in-person interaction is difficult for today’s families. How do we find a happy medium between quality family time and the siren so…
Read ArticleHealthy Babies Start with Proper Pregnancy Planning
A healthy pregnancy begins long before conception. By planning ahead you can lower the risk of complications and give your baby the best support from the very beginning.
Read ArticleNew Year, New Attitude: How to Tap More Joy in 2016
Want to bring more joy into your home this year? Try shifting your mindset. Not only can adopting a more optimistic attitude create a happier life, you’ll influence how well your kids respond to life’s daily challenges too.
Read ArticleNine Social Skills Kids Learn from Eating Out
While your budget might put the squeeze on dining out regularly at restaurants, don’t completely cross the option off your mealtime menu. Eating out, even occasionally, can help kids develop communication skills and learn acceptable behavio…
Read ArticleAll Ears? Nine Games to Tune Up Listening Skills
Ever notice how kids tune us out just when we need them to listen the most? While listening is critical in communication, the skill is one of the most difficult to master and the least taught. For toddlers to teens, make learning to listen …
Read ArticleSmart Start: Nine Tips from Teachers to Kick Off the School Year Right
School bells soon will ring once again. Whether that comes as music to your ears or a bittersweet reminder that free-spirited summer days are over, check out these tips from the pros to help you and your child enjoy a smart, happy start to …
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