When it comes to parenting a child, there is quite a bit to look after even with one child. This full time job requires more than school teaches and has to be accustomed to each individual child. Just about every parent faces their child’s puppy dog look which ends up leading to a sincere request for a pet they can call their own. This is when parents are faced with several questions that must be answered before that little ball of fur brought home. The two biggest concerns: Financial & Time. These are the two areas that should be evaluated before owning a pet. They will be a joy to bring into your home and will bring more than you could ever ask for to your family. But, if it is not the right time to own a pet whether it be: travel, money, time, space, work or simply uncertainty…than go with your gut feeling. Here are some questions that parents are often faced with when it comes to raising a child and a pet.

Will I be taking care of the pet 24/7/365?

This is my favorite, because many parents simply overlook the fact that they have a child that is probably capable of helping with the tedious routine tasks to the biggest of concerns. Read the rest »

Q. What can I do to help my children get through our divorce?

Many families face the challenge of divorce or separation. Whatever the causes of the separation, and whatever the circumstances, it’s hard on everyone involved. Parents want the best for their children. They want stable, loving relationships in their lives. And they want their children to thrive. Yet big changes must be made. Read the rest »

How many times do you utter the phrase, “But I don’t have the time” over the course of a week? Just imagine how much you could accomplish if you could get an extra hour or two a day. Or would you? Often it is said that the more money you make the more you spend, and the same can often be said of time; the more you have the more you waste.

Often times I recommend to clients to do a task with the help of a timer. It is absolutely amazing what can be accomplished in 15-20 increments. Read the rest »

With Memorial Day, Father’s Day and Summer upon us, outdoor entertaining is a welcome change. Make the grill the center of attraction for your next party. Plan a menu that allows your guests to sample various barbecued foods. How about hosting a Kabob Party and offer your guests the opportunity to make their own skewer from a selection of marinated meats, seafood, veggies and even fruits. This will be a fun activity for your guests and will satisfy your kids, and vegetarian friends while engaging the guests in conversation. Read the rest »

Keeping kids active and learning through the summer months can be a challenge for parents and caregivers. Usborne’s Ten Terrific Weeks Reading Adventure Program could make a difference in your child’s summer by keeping them connected with learning so they don’t suffer the summer “brain drain”. Each exciting program comes complete with books, curriculum and detailed supply lists. Short daily activities encourage creativity, learning and fun. The individual programs are geared toward preschoolers up through middle school and beyond, and offer parents a great alternative. Read the rest »

Dear Geralin,

Planning just about anything is a challenge for my husband and me. Both of us have ADHD. We want to vacation this summer with friends and family, but we can’t keep the details straight. We’re aware of a few good packing tips from articles we’ve read, but wondered if you have any out-of-the-ordinary hints for getting a family organized before the packing starts?

Sarah Read the rest »

This week on the Parent Blog Roundup, clever tips for coping with parent/child separation, the hilarious Jeannie Tate Show filmed in her minivan, Kimochi dolls and more!

Separation is never easy; here are tips from Boston Mamas – for both the parent who is leaving and the one who is staying – for coping with separation.

Catch Jeannie Tate’s Show from her minivan on Car & Caboodle. Read the rest »