Children’s Play: Reducing Family Stress

It has rained for days with little time for the children to play at the park. Today is my babysitting day for my three preschool grandkids! I arrive at my daughter’s home early in the morning. My daughter plans to spend her time completing a tutorial on her new computer. I plan to take the grandkids on their weekly trip to lunch, the park, and on errands. I then ask if I can purchase the 14 month old twins’ first pair of shoes and drive my grandson to preschool after taking him to his doctor’s office for a shot.

All at once, my daughter looks at me and states that she will play hookie from work responsibilities. My grandson will take a day off from preschool. It will become a day of reduced family stress as we plan for our great adventure! The twins take their morning nap and my grandson picks up all of his toys. I clean-up the kitchen and plan for our trip; packing lots of food snacks and emergency supplies. [Read more…]

Teachable Moments from Conflict

The election and its aftermath have showcased the anger and bitterness that come from conflict. The deep divide is everywhere. How can conflict be a teachable moment?

We have to process our own feelings. While some people will be happy, others will be very disappointed. Nonetheless, we must respect the feelings of others. Unless we find common ground, we won’t be able to move forward. Also, remember we have an opportunity to show our children how to continue after a disappointment. [Read more…]