Should I entertain my child? How much independence should I encourage?

This question is huge for parents right now. We are balancing the needs of our children with our work and balance seems impossible. The good news is that unstructured (free) play is essential for kids’ growth and learning. It is how they learn to self-regulate, to create and build independence. All they need is great materials, time, and a little training to figure it out! You can watch my webinar with Nelson and for more ideas download the free list of child-directed activities.

How can I support my child during these challenging times?

Children need us to provide security, love, and opportunities to learn and grow. Like so many parents, I feel like my daughter and I figure out some of it as we go. She, like all kids, needs structure. The trick has been to find the balance between work and play, expectation, and flexibility. Play, exercise, and having a plan (that we co-create and reflect about) has worked for us. I am happy to share strategies and encouragement. These are challenging times and we need to take care of ourselves so we can take care of our children!

How can I help my child to show empathy more readily?

This question is juicy! What do we want more than for our children to have fulfilling relationships and to give and receive love? Empathy is everything!

A big part of the answer is to increase your child’s independence and your expectation that they help out in the household while showing care and consideration for family members. That might mean you do a little less and that you make room for mistakes and growth. I have created a list of picture books that foster empathy.