JoAnne Solchany, Ph.D., reviews Best Friends, Worst Enemies: Understanding the Social Lives of Children, a window into how children form and maintain friendships.
A Birth Mother on The Open Adoption “Covenant”
Treat birth family as if they were extended family members: your child will benefit.
[Book Review] Julius, the Baby of the World
"It’s a funny reminder that we can’t just tell our kids to love the new addition. Their annoyance and dislike are normal."
Embracing Your Child’s Personality
Six- to eight-year-olds begin to take on individual personalities — often different from those of their parents.
Preparing Your Child for a Sibling
Adding a family member is always a joyful event. Here's how to make the transition.
“First Paperwork, Then Spring Rolls”
Food has always drawn my family together. While I wait for my daughter, I'll begin reaching out to her in the best way I know — through cooking.
Ask AF: Time to Bond
When you finally bring your baby home, your family will probably be very excited to meet her. Mary Ann Curran suggests ways to explain the bonding cycle to them and gently request time to be alone.
The Kindergarten Transition
Starting school is exciting for kids, but it can also be a little scary. A mother of two shares her experiences and some tips on how to cope.
Keep the Adoption Conversation Going
Let your child know you are open to talking about her birth family.
Creating Holiday Rituals
It's not the gifts they'll remember, but the family traditions.
As Friendships Evolve
Sometimes growing up means letting go of childhood friends.
Keep Them Reading
Five strategies that will encourage teens to turn the page.
“Connecting with a Culture”
A mother weaves a strand between her child's Guatemalan heritage and her Arab ethnicity.
When Food Becomes a Battleground
Children who reject food aren't necessarily rejecting you.
Vision and Hearing Testing
It makes sense to have your child's vision and hearing screened as soon as you come home.
Ready, Set, Regress
Some children need a little extra babying before they're ready to get on with growing up.
The Dating Game
With your guidance your teenager can ease into the world of romantic relationships confidently and responsibly.
Should You Tell All?
Think carefully before sharing your child's story with others.
When a Teen Needs Help
Be open to the idea that your moody teenager may benefit from counseling.
When Your Child First Notices Race
How do you make sure your child feels good about herself?