Blog Archives

Raising Children in a Non-Native Language: What Science Says

Raising Children in a Non-Native Language: What Science Says

It is increasingly common for parents to decide to raise their children in a language that is neither their native tongue nor the language of the society in which they live. For example, in Spain it is increasingly common to hear Spanish parents speaking to their children in English in the park or after school. Often, these […] … learn more→

Parental stress can affect the intellectual and emotional development of their children

Parental stress can affect the intellectual and emotional development of their children

Sofia is in the park with her five-year-old daughter. She has her phone in one hand and is rummaging through her bag with the other for work papers. She’s tense. Her voice sounds halting when she answers her little girl, who runs to show her something in the sandbox. “I can’t right now, Emma,” she […] … learn more→

Anxiety over school admissions isn’t limited to college – parents of young children are also feeling pressure, some more acutely than others

Anxiety over school admissions isn’t limited to college – parents of young children are also feeling pressure, some more acutely than others

Deciding where to send your child to kindergarten has become one of the most high-stakes moments in many American families’ lives. A few factors have made selecting an elementary school particularly challenging in recent years. For one, there are simply more schools for parents to pick from over the past few decades, ranging from traditional public and private […] … learn more→

Boundaries and affection: the best combination in parenting

Boundaries and affection: the best combination in parenting

Aurora grew up in a home of strict rules and absent affection. Her father, Don Augusto, spoke little, but imposed his authority firmly. At the table, no one spoke without his permission, no one left without his authorization, and he decided the punishments. If Aurora spilled a glass of juice, her father’s stern look was […] … learn more→

We’re told to limit kids’ screen time. But how does it actually affect their health?

We’re told to limit kids’ screen time. But how does it actually affect their health?

If you’re a parent, you’ll be well-acquainted with one of the more hotly debated parenting topics: screen time and kids. On the one hand, screen time helps kids learn, develop creativity and supports social interaction and connection. But too much screen time can negatively impact your child – not just their development but their physical […] … learn more→

Why won’t my kids listen to me? A psychologist explains

Why won’t my kids listen to me? A psychologist explains

Have you ever asked your child to do something simple but no matter how many times you ask, they keep ignoring you? For example, on a school morning you may call out, “Sarah, put your shoes on. We have to go!” as you are trying to finish an email, clean up breakfast dishes and make […] … learn more→

How to help a perfectionist child

How to help a perfectionist child

From a very young age, some children may show signs of perfectionism. When they are very young, they can tear up their drawing if they don’t think it’s completely correct. Later, they may avoid doing their homework, or refuse to do it altogether, for fear of making a mistake. Perfectionism can lead them to feel […] … learn more→

The key to raising secure children: Why parental sensitivity matters for fathers and mothers

The key to raising secure children: Why parental sensitivity matters for fathers and mothers

Have you ever heard of children’s attachment or attachment theory? If you are a parent, caregiver or an educator, chances are that it rings a bell. Children’s attachment refers to a strong emotional bond that children develop toward people who care for them. A lot of research in recent decades highlights the importance of positive […] … learn more→

Parents are increasingly saying their child is ‘dysregulated’. What does that actually mean?

Parents are increasingly saying their child is ‘dysregulated’. What does that actually mean?

Welcome aboard the roller coaster of parenthood, where emotions run wild, tantrums reign supreme and love flows deep. As children reach toddlerhood and beyond, parents adapt to manage their child’s big emotions and meltdowns. Parenting terminology has adapted too, with more parents describing their child as “dysregulated”. But what does this actually mean? More than […] … learn more→