I ran into another parent recently, the mother of a girl at my daughter's high school. Both our kids are seniors this year; they know each other, and are casual friends. After congenial hellos in the line at our neighborhood coffeehouse, she asked, "So! What are Riley's plans after graduation?" We're not totally sure yet, but are looking at colleges in the area. "The whole college thing is overwhelming, isn't it?" the mom exclaimed. "How are her grades? How are her SATs scores? Are you applying to places that put a big emphasis on extracurriculars?" Grades were fine; test scores, … [Read more...]
Parents Need to Say ‘No’ So Kids Know They Love Them
I probably say it a thousand times a day and, honestly, it feels good to say it. I say, "No." "Daddy, can I have a popsicle for lunch?" my daughter says. "No. A popsicle is not lunch. Eat your lunch and then we can talk popsicles," I say. "Daddy, can I play on the iPad?" my son asks. "No. You already had your screen time today. Did you pick up your room?" I answer. Shopping with my children is when I say it most. If get near the toy aisle I know it will result in a barrage that will crescendo into a giant "NO!" that makes people's heads turn. This kind of trip has me grabbing … [Read more...]