March 25, 2022
top trending topics
š¬Ā If you suspect your teen is sexting, here are some tips to help you have a productive conversation.
š« If you’re thinking your spouse is a bad parent, just know it is possible to be on the same page with your parenting!
š When parenting seems too stressful, it’s possible to stillĀ keep your head above water.
š±Ā Understand the dangers & talk to your teen about the digital dating world.
š¼ Postpartum can feel isolating. Here are some things to know (from a mom who’s been there & can relate).
tips & tricks for growth
grandparents undermining your parenting? here’s what you can do
The first thing to know is that youāre not alone. In a national poll asking parents of children ages 0-18 about parenting disagreements with grandparents, conducted by C.S. Mott Childrenās Hospital, a vast majority of the families (89%) reported their kids saw a grandparent often or occasionally. And, out of those families, 43% said they had either minor or major disagreements with the grandparents about parenting choices: either the grandparents were too lenient, too tough, or both. Thatās a significant number.
The most common disagreements included: issues of discipline (at #1), meals and snacks, TV and screen time, manners, and matters of health and safetyāall very important parenting issues. Sound familiar?
No matter what your situation, there are some tactics you can use to handle parenting disagreements with the grandparents. Disagreements as to how to treat the grandkids is often multifaceted and complex. But we’ve got the breakdown hereĀ š
4 ways to help your child deal with anger
Eight years ago, my wife and I embarked on a journey. A journey with no map, no guidebook, and filled with mystery and surprise. A journey of blazing our own trails. You may know this journeyā¦ itās called parenting.
Now, here we are with two curious, fun-loving adventurers, one 8 and one 5. Both of them are full of life and laughter and a full range of emotions. This stage of parenting brings a new element: navigating those emotions. The dirty diapers and potty training are gone; we live in a world of attitudes. Any other elementary-age parents out there feel me? I wasnāt ready for this.
One of the more challenging emotions to address has been anger.
š” How do I help my child navigate being angry?
š” How do I help them express their anger?
š” Do I want them to be angry?
Before I go further, let me say this slowly and clearly: Anger is normal. There is nothing wrong with being angry. Itās what we do with anger that matters. Anger often reveals our passions and sense of justice. We just canāt let it control us.
You can help them express themselves in healthy ways.
what we’re lovin’
This week’s picks come from Kris Nash, wife to her husband of 25 years, Greg, #GirlMom of 3,Ā and the Editor here at First Things First.Ā Take a peek at her recommendations for this week because they are just THAT GOOD.Ā Check ’em out š
šļøĀ I love a good yard sale, but Iāve recently discovered āBuy Nothingā groups on Facebook and I think Iām in love. If you can find a local group, itās a convenient and practical way to give away stuff that someone else might want or need, or to get something youād like to have without any money changing hands. (Borrowing is sometimes an option, too!) What a great tool for helping each other during the parenting years and beyond!
š± Even though my kids are a little older, I get a ton of great practical tips/recipes from Kate Strickler at @NaptimeKitchen. Kate is on the same quest as so many of us: to use her time wisely and be there for others. Soā¦ naptime for her littles is when she can get some stuff done.
š„ Inevitably, your family is gonna deal with a few aches and pains. Wouldnāt it be great to have access to a physical therapist who can give you body care tips? Thatās where Dr. Jen Fraboni comes in. Check out @docjenfit for a few ways to not only relieve pain, but to be proactive in taking care of yourself and your kiddos. (This obviously doesnāt replace medical care!)
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Know a friend who would love reading all the relationship goodness we’ve packed in here? Go ahead andĀ share it with them!