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Spring Cleaning Your Relationships: Clearing Out Resentment, Guilt and Unspoken Expectations

There’s something about spring that invites us to shed what’s stale and breathe fresh air into our homes.

And believe it or not… spring will be here this month!

It’s the season to dust off forgotten corners, donate what no longer serves us, and stand back to admire the crispness of a clean slate. But what if we treated our relationships the same way? What if we took this season of renewal as a cue to clear out the resentment, guilt, and unspoken expectations that can quietly clutter our marriages and parenting?

Just as a home full of junk can feel stifling, relationships burdened with emotional debris can limit our joy and connection.

And research agrees. A 2015 study published in The Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that unresolved conflicts and unmet expectations are significant predictors of marital dissatisfaction. Similarly, parenting experts warn that lingering guilt and unspoken assumptions can create friction with our kids.

Dusting Out Resentment in Marriage

Resentment often starts as a small speck—an eye roll when your partner forgets, yet again, to take out the trash. But left unaddressed, it can accumulate into a layer of grime that blurs your view of each other. According to Dr. John Gottman, renowned marriage researcher, the antidote to resentment is open communication. “Small things often,” he says, emphasizing that regular, honest conversations can prevent small irritations from growing into deep divides.

To begin, set aside time to talk without distractions. Start sentences with “I feel” rather than “You always,” which keeps the conversation focused on your experience instead of sounding accusatory. And, yes, it’s uncomfortable at first—kind of like pulling the couch away from the wall and finding a collection of dusty mysteries. But the relief of a clean, honest space is worth it.

Sweeping Away Parenting Guilt

If I had a dollar for every time I felt guilty as a parent, I’d have enough for a luxurious kid-free weekend getaway—and probably still feel guilty about going. Parenting guilt is a universal experience, but carrying it unchecked is like dragging a mop through muddy water: it only spreads the mess.

Parenting expert Dr. Tina Payne Bryson advises acknowledging guilt as a sign of care but not letting it dictate our actions.

“Guilt can be a helpful signal, but it becomes unhealthy when it turns into shame or when it keeps us from being present with our children,” she explains. Instead of dwelling on where you think you’re falling short, focus on small, intentional moments of connection with your kids—whether it’s reading one more story at bedtime or sharing a silly dance in the kitchen.

Scrubbing Out Unspoken Expectations

Expectations are tricky. We all have them, but when left unspoken, they can become invisible tripping hazards. Whether it’s expecting your spouse to know you need a break or hoping your child will behave perfectly at the grocery store, unspoken expectations often lead to disappointment and friction.

Dr. Brené Brown, a research professor at the University of Houston, emphasizes the importance of “clear is kind.” She encourages us to be explicit about what we need and to ask our loved ones to do the same. When my five-year-old started kindergarten, I realized I had an unspoken expectation that he’d adjust easily. When he didn’t, I felt frustrated—not at him, but at the gap between my expectation and reality. Voicing this allowed me to shift my approach, offering him more support and patience as he navigated the transition.

Embracing the Fresh Air

The beauty of spring cleaning—whether in your home or your heart—isn’t in achieving perfection but in creating space for what matters most. When we clear out resentment, guilt, and unspoken expectations, we make room for grace, laughter, and love. We let in the fresh air of connection and breathe a little easier in our most important relationships.

So, as you sweep out the dust bunnies and fold fresh linens, take a moment to dust off your relationships too. It may take time, but the reward is a home—and a heart—where love can flourish.

Lauren Hall is the President and CEO of First Things First. Contact her at lauren@firstthings.org.

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How Carefree Parenting Can Enhance Your Life

I felt stuck in the grind, like I had spent too many days on wash, rinse, dry and repeat.

My children had also been sick an unbelievable amount of times in just a few short weeks. Life felt like a flood of to do’s and routine rather than a beautiful journey to behold. 

That’s when I realized our day-to-day was focused on a cycle rather than an intentional pattern or building rituals for connection.

As parents, it’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind

wake up, feed the kids, shuttle them to school, tackle a never-ending to-do list, and repeat. Routines are necessary; they provide structure and stability for children. But what if we shifted our focus from simply checking off tasks to creating moments that truly matter?

Enter rituals—the secret ingredient to building joy, connection, and lasting memories in parenthood.

Unlike routines, which are about efficiency and getting things done, rituals are about meaning. They transform ordinary moments into experiences that children cherish for a lifetime.

Routines serve a functional purpose: brushing teeth before bed, packing lunches, or doing homework at a set time. They keep life organized but are often forgettable. Rituals, on the other hand, carry emotional weight. They turn the mundane into something special and create a sense of belonging.

For example, reading a bedtime story every night is a routine. But adding a special phrase before turning off the light—“I love you to the moon and back”—turns it into a ritual. It becomes a moment of comfort, love, and connection.

Research shows that family rituals contribute to a child’s emotional well-being, identity, and sense of security.

Rituals provide children with something to look forward to, a sense of continuity, and a deeper understanding of their family’s values and traditions.

Dr. Barbara Fiese, a psychologist specializing in family routines and rituals, notes that rituals create emotional imprints that last a lifetime. Kids might not remember every meal they ate growing up, but they will remember Friday night pizza and movie nights, the silly song their dad sang every morning, or the secret handshake they shared with their mom.

You don’t need elaborate plans or grand gestures to make an impact.

Here are a few simple ways to infuse rituals into everyday parenting:

1: Make Mealtime Sacred

Instead of just eating dinner together, add a ritual like sharing “highs and lows” of the day or lighting a candle to mark the start of family time.

2: Celebrate Small Wins

Whether it’s finishing a tough school assignment or making it through a long workweek, establish a tradition of celebrating achievements with ice cream, a dance party, or a simple “cheers” with milk and cookies.

3: Bedtime Connection

Create a special goodnight ritual with a song, a funny joke, or a shared gratitude moment before turning out the lights.

4: Seasonal Traditions

Welcome each season with a unique family activity, like a fall nature walk, a summer lemonade stand, or a winter hot cocoa night.

5: Playful Daily Rituals

Turn school drop-offs into a game by racing to the door, or create a goofy handshake for before and after school.

Parenting isn’t just about getting through the day—it’s about shaping childhoods and strengthening family bonds.

By transforming everyday routines into meaningful rituals, we give our children something truly special: a sense of love, security, and a deep connection to their family.

Years from now, our kids won’t remember the schedules we kept, but they will remember how we made them feel. And that’s the power of rituals over routines.

Lauren Hall is the President and CEO of First Things First. Contact her at lauren@firstthings.org.

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Could a Social Media Ban Protect Children’s Mental Health?

Australia recently enacted a law prohibiting children under 16 from accessing social media platforms. This legislation aims to address growing concerns about the impact of social media on the mental health and development of young people. While the law has its critics, citing questions about enforceability and personal freedoms, it also raises important questions about the responsibility of societies to protect their youngest members in an increasingly digital world.

The rationale behind the ban is rooted in mounting evidence of social media’s potentially harmful effects on adolescents. A landmark study published in JAMA Pediatrics revealed that excessive social media use correlates with increased rates of anxiety, depression, and poor sleep quality in teens. These findings align with a growing body of research showing that the algorithms driving social media platforms often amplify feelings of inadequacy, comparison, and social isolation—especially among adolescents who are still developing their sense of self.

In 2022, the U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy declared youth mental health a national crisis, highlighting social media as a significant contributing factor.

One study he cited, conducted by the Pew Research Center, found that 59% of teenagers report being cyberbullied or harassed online. Girls, in particular, are disproportionately affected, with higher rates of body image issues and low self-esteem attributed to the curated, often unattainable beauty standards prevalent on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

The Australian government also referenced research suggesting that social media use during critical developmental years could negatively impact cognitive and emotional growth.

A study from the University of Southern California found that early exposure to excessive screen time rewires the brain’s reward systems, making adolescents more susceptible to addictive behaviors. The study’s authors argue that these changes can impair a teen’s ability to regulate emotions and make sound decisions—skills that are crucial for adulthood.

The new law is not without its challenges. Critics argue that a blanket ban could alienate young people from essential forms of communication and self-expression, particularly in rural areas where social media can be a lifeline. Enforcing the law—which requires platforms to verify user age—will also prove difficult. However, proponents believe the ban sends a strong message about the value of protecting youth from corporate algorithms that prioritize engagement over well-being.

Experts emphasize that addressing social media’s impact on young people requires more than regulation.

Dr. Jean Twenge, author of iGen, advocates for parental involvement and education alongside policy changes. “Parents need to model healthy tech habits and create open dialogue about social media use,” Twenge explains. She suggests implementing household rules like tech-free dinners or screen time limits, which can help teens develop a balanced relationship with technology.

While Australia’s approach may seem radical, it adds to a broader conversation about the role of technology in children’s lives.

In the U.S., states like Utah and Arkansas have introduced laws requiring parental consent for minors to use social media, and discussions about age-appropriate tech use are gaining momentum worldwide. Organizations such as Common Sense Media provide resources for families seeking guidance on navigating these challenges.

As the mom of a curious kindergartener who already knows how to ask Siri for help and a baby girl who asks Google to play Elmo regularly, I find myself thinking through these questions more deeply. How do we strike the balance between embracing the benefits of technology and safeguarding our children’s well-being? The answer may not lie in a single law or parental strategy but in a collective effort to prioritize kids’ mental health over the dopamine-driven demands of digital life.

Australia’s bold move serves as a wake-up call. It’s a reminder that as parents, educators, and policymakers, we have a shared responsibility to help the next generation navigate a digital landscape fraught with both promise and peril. Let’s ensure we equip our kids with the tools—and boundaries—they need to thrive.

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How Shame Harms Everything in Our Relationships 

Shame. It’s a small word, but it carries the weight of a wrecking ball. Unlike guilt, which says, I did something bad, shame whispers something far more sinister: I am bad. Left unchecked, shame can quietly sabotage our most precious relationships and leave us feeling trapped, isolated, and misunderstood, even around the holiday season.

As a mother of two and someone deeply immersed in the world of healthy relationships, I’ve seen how shame shows up in families, friendships, and romantic partnerships. It’s sneaky, often hiding in the shadows of perfectionism, defensiveness, or avoidance. But make no mistake: shame isn’t a passive passenger. It actively distorts how we view ourselves and how we connect with others.

Psychologist Brené Brown, a leading researcher on shame, defines it as “the intensely painful feeling or experience of believing that we are flawed and therefore unworthy of love and belonging.”

Shame differs from guilt in one key way: guilt focuses on behavior, while shame targets identity. It’s not “I made a mistake.” It’s “I am a mistake.”

It often starts early, rooted in our childhood experiences.

A critical parent, a humiliating moment at school, or even a well-intentioned but hurtful comment can plant the seeds. Over time, those seeds grow, shaping how we see ourselves and interact with others.

Unchecked shame doesn’t stay contained. It spills over, impacting how we love, argue, and show up in relationships. Studies show that it is closely linked to issues like low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression—all of which can erode connection and intimacy.

When we carry shame, we often develop unhealthy coping mechanisms to protect ourselves.

For some, this looks like withdrawing emotionally, creating a wall to avoid vulnerability. For others, it manifests as perfectionism, trying to earn love and acceptance by being flawless.

One study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that people who carry a high level of shame are more likely to engage in destructive relationship behaviors, such as criticism, blame, or avoidance. Why? Because shame convinces us that we’re unlovable, and we act out of fear of rejection.

The good news? Shame isn’t a life sentence.

With awareness and intentional effort, we can break free and cultivate healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

1. Name it to tame it.  

Brené Brown says shame thrives in secrecy. The first step to overcoming it is acknowledging it. Share your feelings with someone you trust—a friend, partner, therapist, or support group. Saying, “I feel ashamed about this,” robs shame of its power.

2. Challenge the narrative.

Ask yourself: Whose voice am I hearing when I feel this way? Often, shame stems from someone else’s expectations or criticisms, not our own truth. Replace those negative scripts with self-compassion.

3. Focus on connection.

Shame isolates, but vulnerability connects. Being open about your struggles can deepen relationships. For example, instead of lashing out when you feel insecure, try saying, “I’m feeling a little unsure right now. Can we talk about it?”

4. Seek professional help.

If shame feels too big to tackle alone, therapy can be transformative. Approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) have been shown to help people heal from deep-seated shame.

As a mom, I’ve thought a lot about the kind of emotional legacy I want to leave for my kids. I know they’ll make mistakes—just like I do. But I never want them to confuse their missteps with their worth. So, when my 5-year-old son spills his milk or struggles with a new task, I remind him: “It’s okay to make mistakes. You’re still learning, and I’m proud of you for trying.”

We all deserve that kind of grace, no matter our age.

Shame is a heavy burden, but it doesn’t have to define us. By addressing it head-on, we can create relationships built on authenticity, empathy, and mutual respect. Imagine a world where we feel safe to say, “I messed up, but I’m still worthy of love.” That’s the kind of world I want for my kids—and for all of us.

So, let’s start today. Let’s name the shame, rewrite the story, and reclaim the connection we all deserve.

Your turn: What’s one small step you can take this week to silence shame’s voice? Whether it’s sharing your feelings with someone you trust or simply being kinder to yourself, remember: you’re worth it. Always.

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It Takes a Village, But What Does a “Village” Look Like?

Last week, I had an aha moment.  I was on a call with a new donor for First Things First while simultaneously trying to convince my five-year-old to take his antibiotics for walking pneumonia,  distracting my one-year-old from playing with the shiny knobs on the stove, and making dinner for my mom and dad who were on their way to hang out with my children while I finished a few work things. It hit me just how much I rely on my “village” to get through the chaos of life—my husband, my parents, my friends. Parenting, pursuing passion, developing relationships, and even personal growth are never solo acts.

But what happens when your community is stretched thin?

For families in low-income communities, the challenges can be overwhelming: fewer resources, higher stress levels, and often, a lack of supportive networks. Yet research consistently shows that mentorship, community, and accountability can be the lifeline that transforms not just individual lives, but entire communities.

In lower-income communities, mentorship isn’t just “nice-to-have”—it’s often a lifeline. A study from the National Mentoring Partnership found that young people with mentors are 55% more likely to enroll in college, 78% more likely to volunteer in their communities, and 130% more likely to hold leadership positions. Mentorship isn’t about telling someone what to do; it’s about walking alongside them and showing them what’s possible.

For parents, mentorship can mean gaining critical knowledge about child development, financial literacy, or relationship building. For kids, having a mentor can be the difference between falling into a cycle of poverty or breaking free.

The phrase It takes a village is more than a cliché. Studies from The American Journal of Community Psychology highlight how strong social networks improve mental health, reduce stress, and foster resilience, especially in marginalized communities. Yet for families in low-income areas, finding those networks can be tough.

One of the greatest benefits of a genuine community is accountability, which often gets a bad rap. It sounds intimidating, like someone wagging a finger at your mistakes. But true accountability is rooted in care. It’s about creating a space of honesty, support, and encouraged growth.

Imagine the ripple effect if we leaned into these practices in low-income communities.

Mentorship creates vision. Community offers strength. Accountability ensures growth. Together, they create cycles of empowerment that change lives for generations. If you’re in a position to mentor or build relationships, here’s your call to step up. If you need support, reach out. It takes courage to ask for help, but courage often leads to connection.

This week, I challenge you to think about how you can contribute to your “village.”

Maybe it’s mentoring a teenager, hosting a neighborhood potluck, or simply checking in on a friend who’s struggling. When we show up for each other, we build something bigger than ourselves: a movement of connection, care, and hope. Strengthening families and breaking generational cycles has to include multiple partnerships, resources, and avenues, especially for low-income families.

And for the parents juggling jobs, sick kiddos, and toddlers who touch all things shiny—know this: You are not alone. Together, we are stronger.

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Grandparents are a Grand Gift to Thriving Families

When my five-year-old begs me to have a playdate with his Nana and Poppy, and my one-year-old squeals with delight every time she hears a Facetime from a grandparent come through, I remember the joy I felt as a child when I engaged with my own grandparents. Not everyone has the same experience with their grandparents or parents, but at its core, the role of a grandparent is meant to be one of wisdom, stability, and unconditional love.

Today, grandparents are taking on a more involved role than ever before.

According to Generations United’s 2023 State of Grandfamilies Report, 72% of grandparents regularly care for their grandchildren, with 22% providing nearly full-time caregiving. This level of engagement is a stark contrast to previous decades. In the 1980s, grandparent involvement was more sporadic—think birthday parties and holiday visits. But societal shifts have pushed grandparents into the family spotlight. Rising childcare costs, the prevalence of dual-working parents, and the growing number of multigenerational households (which now make up 18% of U.S. homes, per Pew Research) mean that grandparents are no longer just cherished relatives—they’re family MVPs.

Grandparents bring more than helping hands—they bring history.

Research published in The Gerontologist highlights that intergenerational relationships significantly enhance a child’s sense of identity, security, and resilience. Through stories of “when I was your age” and quirky family traditions, grandparents pass on a family narrative that fosters belonging and self-worth.

Their involvement also boosts children’s emotional health. A 2014 study by Boston College found that emotionally close relationships between grandparents and grandchildren reduce depressive symptoms in both parties. This bond becomes especially critical during tough times, such as family transitions or economic hardships. Grandparents often provide a stabilizing force, offering wisdom and support when life gets messy.

So how can grandparents deepen their connection with their grandchildren? 

Dr. Karl Pillemer, a professor of human development at Cornell University, emphasizes that quality matters more than quantity. “Even short bursts of meaningful interaction can leave lasting impressions,” he says. This could be as simple as attending a soccer game, reading bedtime stories over FaceTime, or planning special one-on-one outings. And, in today’s tech-savvy world, physical distance doesn’t have to mean emotional distance. Apps like Caribu or good old-fashioned video calls can help grandparents stay involved in day-to-day life, even if they live far away.

Plus, grandparents are natural storytellers, and research from Emory University reveals that kids who know family stories are more resilient and confident. Whether it’s teaching grandchildren how to bake a treasured family recipe or recounting childhood adventures, these moments are invaluable. Traditions, no matter how small, provide children with a sense of continuity and identity. Weekly pancake breakfasts, holiday crafting sessions, or an annual fishing trip can become cherished rituals that grandchildren will carry into their own families someday.

Grandparents’ involvement can be a gift, not just to their grandchildren but to the entire family.

By bridging generations, they weave a legacy of love, resilience, and connection that endures long after we’re gone.

So, to all the involved grandparents reading this: Thank you for the laughs, the endless snacks, and the steadying presence you bring. And to parents like me, let’s not take this gift for granted. I know not every family has the ability to have involved grandparents due to a myriad of reasons. Each family is different, and that’s okay. Just remember that when healthy grandparents are present, families flourish.

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What We Now Know About Babies, Toddlers, and Screen Time

As a mom with a one-year-old, I know firsthand how tempting it can be to reach for a screen when trying to get through your to-do list—or just catch a breath. But as much as we love a little peace and quiet, studies reveal a growing concern about screen exposure for children under two, prompting many experts to urge caution.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children under 18 months avoid all screen media, except for video calls with family members. For children 18–24 months, they suggest watching all screen time together, allowing parents to explain and interact with what’s on the screen. The worry is that without these interactions, children may miss out on crucial social and cognitive development that occurs through human connection and hands-on play.

Emerging research suggests that early and frequent exposure to screens can impact babies in several key ways:

  1. Delayed Language Development: Studies show that when young children spend time with screens, they miss out on the social interaction that fosters language development. Dr. Jenny Radesky, a developmental-behavioral pediatrician and clinical researcher at the University of Michigan, highlights that young children learn language best through “serve and return” interactions—like when a parent responds to a baby’s babbling. This feedback loop is essential for language development, something screens simply can’t replicate.
  2. Sleep Disruption: The blue light from screens can interfere with sleep cycles. One study from the University of Colorado Boulder found that even 60 minutes of screen exposure in the evening can delay melatonin release, making it harder for babies to wind down at bedtime.
  3. Attention and Focus Issues: Research suggests that high levels of screen exposure may reduce attention spans. The University of Washington found that increased screen time, especially when it replaces other interactive activities, can make it harder for children to engage in independent play and to focus on single tasks over time.

Knowing all this, what are parents supposed to do?

Balancing work, home, and kids is no small feat. But there are ways to keep little ones entertained and engaged without screens. Here are a few tried-and-true ideas:

  1. Create Sensory Bins: Set up bins filled with rice, pasta, or sand (if you can handle the mess!). Add a few small toys or spoons, and watch as your child discovers textures, learns to scoop, and lets their curiosity run wild.
  2. Bring Out the Bubbles: Bubbles are a mesmerizing activity that requires minimal setup. Try letting your child chase and pop them outside or in a contained area for easy cleanup. This is a win for both exercise and sensory engagement.
  3. DIY Water Play: With just a bit of water and a few cups, bowls, and measuring spoons, you can create a mini water station. Let them “pour,” “scoop,” and “stir” to their heart’s content. This type of play encourages motor skills and gives you time to take a break.
  4. Busy Bags and Rotating Toys: Have a stash of simple “busy bags” filled with non-screen toys like stacking cups, crayons, or small books. Rotating the toys keeps things fresh, and they’ll be more likely to stay engaged for longer periods.
  5. Independent “Reading” Corner: Set up a cozy reading nook with board books or fabric books that little hands can handle independently. They may not be reading yet, but flipping through pages and looking at pictures builds early literacy skills and imagination.

While the goal is minimal screen time, it’s important to be flexible.

Sometimes, a video chat with Grandma or a short, educational show can be a helpful tool. Parenting expert Dr. Dimitri Christakis from Seattle Children’s Research Institute suggests that if you do use screen time, keep it intentional—choose high-quality, slow-paced programming, and make time to watch alongside your child if possible.

Parenting today comes with so much advice, some of it conflicting. But at the end of the day, our kids benefit most from our love, presence, and care. By limiting screens, offering engaging alternatives, and being gentle with ourselves on the hard days, we’re giving our babies what they truly need: a safe, enriching, and loving environment to grow and thrive.

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How Parents’ Everyday Interactions Shape Their Kids Friendships

My kindergartener has a large number of friends. Of course, the majority of them are “girlfriends,” but that’s a topic for a different column on another day. The most consistent comments I’ve received about his personality is that he is very affectionate and social… sometimes a little too social. He even gained the nickname “The Fonz” at a Mother’s Day Out Program he attended from ages two to five years old.

While I’m confident my son knows how to be sociable, and he loves making new friends, I’ve also heard him have a really hard time letting others be in the lead during games or imaginative play. He also struggles with knowing and maintaining his physical boundaries and the boundaries of others. He loves to give hugs and kisses, as well as wrestle you to the ground through his infamous “stepover toe hold” – a move generously taught to him by my dad.

I’ve been thinking a lot about how to influence some of these things, especially since I’m not typically there to intervene or guide him on the playground.

This year, the University of Georgia published a study that digs into this idea: how parents engage with their children on a daily basis could actually influence how they play with their peers.

According to the study, kids learn critical social skills through their primary relationships—which means their parents or caregivers are the number one influencers on the list. Whether it’s navigating who goes first on the slide or sharing that favorite toy, children draw from their daily, often tiny, interactions at home to build their “friendship toolkit.”

The researchers found that kids whose parents engage them in warm, responsive, and attuned ways tend to approach their peer relationships more positively. This isn’t about creating conflict-free zones; it’s about how we respond to those inevitable moments when things get a little rocky. It turns out that kids who’ve seen us handle a toddler tantrum calmly or negotiate an early bedtime with grace are more likely to bring these negotiation skills to the playground.

This study also aligns with what other experts in family and childhood development emphasize.

Dr. John Gottman, a prominent relationship researcher, has found that how we validate our children’s emotions—whether that’s joy, frustration, or sadness—affects their emotional intelligence and resilience. When we listen actively, we’re teaching our kids that feelings are okay, manageable, and worth talking about. This emotional literacy translates to empathy on the playground, where they start to notice and respond to the feelings of their friends.

Of course, it’s not all about warmth. Boundaries, consistency, and accountability play a big role, too. Most relationship and parent experts rally for an authoritative parenting style: a balance of warmth and firmness. This approach tends to produce kids who are self-assured yet respectful, qualities that naturally draw in friends.

Interestingly, the study also touches on how parental stress can trickle down into children’s social lives.

When we’re overwhelmed, it’s easy to slip into a short-tempered, less patient version of ourselves. While that’s normal (who hasn’t felt that way?), our efforts to regulate our own emotions help our children learn to do the same. Psychologist Dr. Laura Markham suggests that taking time to check in with ourselves and, when possible, practice self-care can have ripple effects on our children’s emotional health and friendships.

In our fast-paced, over-scheduled world, the takeaway from this research is refreshingly simple: our kids benefit most from the everyday moments where we’re fully present. Whether it’s an impromptu game of hide-and-seek or listening to the (many) detailed descriptions of today’s kindergarten art project, these connections matter. In helping our children learn kindness, patience, and resilience at home, we’re giving them the skills to become good friends with others.

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