Learning Empathy
As we focus on a new year and a new administration, it is important for us to focus on the lessons we wish to teach our children the lesson of empathy. We can model this for them through our behavior, conversation and priorities.
What is empathy?
A cousin of mine, who works as a housing advocate, sent me the following link that was shared with his office to teach about empathy. This 3 minute video reminds us that empathy means just listening and making a connection to those who need healing. We need not solve a problem. We need not try to make the problem go away. We need only demonstrate that we care through connection without judgment. [Read more…]
Problem solving is a process that teens need to practice and perfect to deal with the everyday challenges that they face. Parents play an important role in helping their teens develop effective problem solving strategies. 
Como padres queremos que nuestros hijos logren un rendimiento escolar exitoso. Sabemos que a los bien educados, las puertas de oportunidades están abiertas. Sin embargo, nuestros hijos jóvenes viven en la actualidad. No consideran las consecuencias de largo plazo cuando toman decisiones acerca de su trabajo escolar. 
My grandchildren asked me what my New Year’s resolutions would be for 2017. I explained to them that each year I review my life’s challenges and accomplishments and journal the next steps in my life’s goals. My typical resolutions focus on keeping my life balanced in the areas of spiritual growth and family play. I also make resolutions to manage my exercise and financial planning. Finally, each year I aspire to increase my knowledge and skills in a new area of interest. Recent learnings include technology applications, blogging, watercoloring, and creating innovative curriculum. 
In the spirit of the holiday season, it is important to thank grandparents and the many people who have influenced our children. Grandparents and other significant adults can have a huge impact on their grandchildren and children. Some grandparents are the primary caregivers for their grandchildren because their parents cannot adequately care for their children. Many grandmas and grandpas provide daily or multi-day care for their grandchildren each week. These grandparents provide significant infant and preschool care. Many grandparents also pick up their grandchildren from school and provide them with extended care, enrichment activities, and homework support.