The thought of getting a driver’s license is thrilling to teens. To most parents, it’s terrifying. Attached to the little paper that brings wheels and freedom to your child is an expanded list of worries for you.  Not only are all the other drivers on the road... Read more...

First Night Away From Home (Franklin Watts, 1960) was one of the many books written by mother, Myra Berry Brown.  In this sweet story, we follow 5 year old Stevie from proudly packing his suitcase to noticing, as bedtime gets closer, that “David’s room looked different at... Read more...

As the ten year anniversary of 9/11 approaches, the media is heating up with programs and references to that tragedy. Ten years ago already. Wow!  As was the case when Kennedy was shot, many can easily answer the question, “What were you doing when you heard the... Read more...

Every time I offer my seminar, Keeping Your Child Safe, I am reminded that this is the number one job of every parent on this planet. I know that all parents try to do so, but what a daunting task this really is.  Look around and you... Read more...

Following the news of Bin Laden’s death, I received a rash of calls from parents wondering how to explain 9/11 to their elementary school age children.  Most of these children were a mere twinkle in their parents’ eyes on September 11, 2001.  Referencing that horrible event was... Read more...

It’s hard enough to raise your own child—teaching him the rules of the road, guiding him as he learns how to “play nicely”—but what happens when a child who is not yours is in need of some pointed guidance (a swift kick in the pants, perhaps!)? You’re having... Read more...

Every time I hear a parent brag that her child is her best friend, I cringe and think, “Well, that’s too bad.”  The job description of parent is mighty long—nurturer, teacher, advisor, consultant, guide, spotter, disciplinarian, consoler, cheerleader.  But I am quite sure “friend” is not on... Read more...

     As we all try to grasp the horror of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan, you might be confronted by questions from your child.  Children of different ages will require different responses from you.  For all children, especially those six years and younger, I urge you... Read more...

Wouldn’t it be great if there were a clear answer to this question? There isn’t.  As with every decision you will make regarding your child, this one is about your particular child and you. The only thing I know for sure is that “all my friends have... Read more...

Last Sunday morning I stood on the corner of Sepulveda and Skirball Drive. Ten families with children of all ages in tow and I stood at the red light, eager to get to Milk and Bookies. (The glory of that charity event held this year at the... Read more...