One of the many daunting challenges of parenting is knowing when a child is old enough to [fill in the blank]. Dating, riding the bus, walking to the store alone, seeing a PG movie, having a sleepover, playing sports… there seems no end to the list of topics that need a parental judgment call on age restrictions.
Kids want what other kids have, and they want to do what other kids do. Kindergarteners want cell phones – even if they never go anywhere without their parents and they have no one else to call. If little Johnny’s parents
Archive for November, 2009
Not too many years ago, parents might have had trouble keeping their kids entertained (and not climbing on the walls) when it was raining outside. With all of today's electronics, a rainy day does not seem to present itself as a problem anymore. Children have computer games, board games, video games, movies, and many more fun activities. The problem is, none of these activities really keep a kid active. Here are some activities you can do outside when it's raining: (more...)
When Thanksgiving arrives, there tends to be a flurry of action, chopping, mixing, baking, and more, for the adults. But what about the kids? Sure, some assistance from your little helpers is appreciated, but when the kitchen becomes full and a little too warm, you may be seeking alternate entertainment for your kids.
Rather than sending them to a screen for entertainment, how about a craft that will keep them busy and amused? (more...)
Rather than sending them to a screen for entertainment, how about a craft that will keep them busy and amused? (more...)
TV, Movie, and Music Choices: From the Teen’s View
November 18th, 2009 by Jacob P. | Adolescence, Behavior, Elementary, Entertainment, Internet, Music, Teen Perspective, Teens, Television
These days, all over the TV, music, and movies, there is content inappropriate for most children to see, hear, or watch. This is true, but there are many parents who go overboard on "protecting" their child.
First off, I am going to give you the basic run down on American movie and TV rating systems. First off, TV:
First off, I am going to give you the basic run down on American movie and TV rating systems. First off, TV:
- TV-Y (All Children -- This program is designed to be appropriate for all children)
- TV-Y7 (Directed to Older Children -- This program is designed for children age 7 and above.)
- TV-G (General audiences)
- TV-PG (Parental guidance suggested)
- TV-14 (Recommended for people 14 or older)
- TV-MA (intended for mature audiences)
- G
Whom Does Your Kid Associate with?
November 17th, 2009 by Joe Lawrence | Adolescence, Behavior, Helpful hints, Self-esteem, Teens
The drama encircling Jon and Kate Gosselin got me thinking about a tidbit of wisdom passed to me by my father. Watching the actions of Jon and who he is associating with tells me about his character without ever talking to him. My father used to tell me if you want to be a champion, run with champions.
You become known for who you associate with. I used to think this advice was not fair. I had some friends who in hindsight I would not let my daughter even talk to, let alone hang out with. Then I thought it was
You become known for who you associate with. I used to think this advice was not fair. I had some friends who in hindsight I would not let my daughter even talk to, let alone hang out with. Then I thought it was
