GenParenting

Parenting resources for all who love and care for children

How to Support Children When Parents and Family Members Have Different Values

How to Support Children When Parents and Family Members Have Different Values

As an educator and grandma of an elementary school grandson, I find that I have different approaches to watching and educating my grandson. I have reached out to other educators on how to reconcile these differences when helping my grandson with his school work and during our afterschool play sessions. Ten tips for success include the following: [Read more…]

When Your College Child Comes Home for a Visit

When Your College Child Comes Home for a Visit

After attending summer school at the university, my son was able to come home for a few days to visit us and his friends. I continue to be impressed with the impact that college and living independently has had on my son. Some outcomes include:

  • My son is growing up and learning how to become a member of a larger community.
  • He is very grateful in how we raised him.
  • EJ is learning how to give back to others.
  • His living situation is very healthy and supportive.
  • EJ is living in a school sponsored co-op housing with older students. This provides him with an expanded support system of mentors.
  • Each co-op member must contribute to the upkeep of the house. My son is learning new house management skills.

[Read more…]

Encouraging Reluctant Readers with a Growth Mindset

Encouraging Reluctant Readers with a Growth Mindset

When my children were toddlers, they used to love story time. We’d pull out their favorite board book, they’d sit on my lap or snuggle on the couch, we’d make all the animal sounds as they pointed to the pictures and we’d retell the story using puppets. It was so much fun! [Read more…]

How to Set Boundaries that Support Our Children’s Growth!

How to Set Boundaries that Support Our Children’s Growth!

It is the start of a new school year and we are busy trying to help our children organize themselves for success. The warm autumn days beckon our children to play outside until the family dinner. After dinner, there are new television shows to watch. Our children want to play with their toys, look at books, and play on the family computer, phone, or tablet. [Read more…]

Talking About Death and Difficult Subjects Play Activities

Talking About Death and Difficult Subjects Play Activities 

 Children love to watch the evolution of life in their daily play. They witness the growth, life, and death weeds, plants, flowers, trees, insects, animals, pets, and family members. They hear family members talk about sickness, the old age decline of family members, and eventual deaths of older relatives. Television, movies, and video games can overwhelm children with messages about death and dying. Listed below are a few thought provoking activities that you can share with your children in memory of a loved pet or family member. [Read more…]